Welcome, 9th Graders!
Starting high school is a big deal! Thinking about college might feel like it's a long way off, and that's exactly how it should feel right now.
You have four years to grow, explore, and figure out what matters to you, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
This page is your home base for everything college-related in 9th grade.
What to Focus on in 9th Grade
Of course, your grades matter, but so do your other choices. Here's what I encourage all 9th graders to keep in mind:
Get involved: Try clubs, sports, arts, and community service. Don't worry about how it "looks" yet; explore what you enjoy.
Build relationships: Your teachers and counselors are your allies. Don't be a stranger. The better we know you, the more we can guide you and connect you with resources and opportunities.
Grades matter: Though mistakes in 9th grade can be corrected, do your best to get your assignments in on time and do your best work. It can take time to acclimate to high school workloads and teacher expectations. Ask questions, read directions and deadlines carefully! This is good practice for college and work life.
Don't stress about college yet: Stay or get curious. Talk to adults who have jobs that interest you. Ask them how they got there. Who or what inspired them to pursue their career? What did they study in college, if they attended?