Hi Twin Peaks High School Students,
I hope the end of the semester is going well for you. Here are some resources to consider for motivation and study techniques.
All grades
Values Exercise (video): What’s important to you? Spend some time thinking about your core values with this quick exercise.
Schedule changes: if you would like something to change in your schedule for next semester, now is the time to reach out to me. Send me an email or schedule a meeting!
Time management: Finding it hard to balance your school work, extracurricular activities, and sleep? This worksheet can help assess whether you’re doing too much.
Uplevel your study skills: This guide has tips to help you study smarter, not harder.
Keep going! Remember that you need 26.5 credits to graduate. It’s much easier to do the work now than to take the whole class again next year.
10th-graders
Review PSAT/NMSQT results (if you sat for the test): Pay special attention to the questions you answered incorrectly. Strong test scores as a junior may qualify you for academic honors as well as for special programs and recruitment opportunities. I will hand out your test booklets in seminar next week.
How to Plan a Fulfilling and Productive Summer (podcast): Heads-up: Some programs have early-application deadlines, so start researching early.
Keep going! Remember that you need 26.5 credits to graduate. It’s much easier to do the work now than to take the whole class again next year.
11th-graders
Review PSAT/NMSQT results: You can review not only your scores but also the questions you answered correctly and those you missed. Use Khan Academy to get practice questions specific to your needs.
Compass Guide to Admissions Testing: If you haven’t already, this is the time to map out a testing plan. You will take the SAT in April free of charge, but you can also register for the ACT or sit for an additional SAT at testing centers in the area. Let me know if you’d like help setting it up!
Best free test-prep resources:
How to Plan a Fulfilling and Productive Summer (podcast): Heads-up: Some programs have early-application deadlines, so start researching early.
Winter Break can be a great time to explore college websites and begin creating your college list. Create a list of four colleges before April to send them your SAT scores for free.
Interested in attending a military academy? Several of the academies offer summer programs for students who will be seniors next year. Start your application now for the Air Force Academy Summer Program,
12th grade
Seminar focus: In December, we will be applying to local and national scholarships during seminar. If you are interested in attending college or trade school but not sure how you’re paying for it, this is the month for you.
Haven’t ordered your graduation gown yet? Order it ASAP to avoid paying a (large) extra fee.
While you’re at it, you might want to buy a yearbook, too.
Complete and send out all RD (regular decision) applications no later than mid-December. If you applied Early Decision/Early Action, you might want to hold on submitting additional applications and sending off the CSS Profile to the rest of your list until the early news is in. Just make sure not to miss any deadlines.
Write thank you notes: Share gratitude with your teachers for writing letters of recommendation for you.
Check your applicant portals and emails: You should check your emails and portals daily throughout the winter months. If you miss a request for more information or an additional document, it could jeopardize your admission chances, so check regularly.
SVVSD Scholarships: In seminar, we will be working on applying to local scholarships. It’s worth applying for a local scholarship even if you don’t meet their description of an ideal candidate. (Some scholarships have very few applicants, and they want to give the scholarship to someone!)
Cheers,
Ms. Cook