GRAND
RAPIDS, Mich., Sept. 10,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Navigating the path to college
can feel overwhelming for high school students and their parents.
Fortunately, school counselors like Kristin Schumacher-Smith of Grand River
Preparatory High School, are here to help guide families through
the process. Here's how Schumacher-Smith and her National
Heritage Academies (NHA) colleagues support students on their path
to higher education.
Helping Students Discover Their Worth
One of the primary roles of a high school counselor is to help
students recognize their potential and find their unique path. This
isn't just about steering students toward college or a career; it's
about helping them discover what will truly make them happy and
successful. Encouraging your child to connect with their counselor
can be the first step in discovering what they're passionate about
and find ways to help them achieve their dreams.
Addressing Common Concerns
It's natural for students to have questions and concerns about
their future. Many feel pressured to attend college immediately,
even if they're not sure what they want to study. Schumacher-Smith
reassures families that it's normal for students to take their
time. "It's okay not to have everything figured out right
away," she notes. "Sometimes, exploring options like community
college or even taking a gap year can provide valuable time to
decide."
Guidance on College and Career Choices
If your child isn't sure about their career path, starting at a
community college can be a more affordable way to explore different
interests without the pressure of a four-year university. Dual
enrollment is also a great option. "We offer dual enrollment, which
is way cheaper—sometimes even free—and it's a great way to get
those general education requirements while you're still in high
school," Schumacher-Smith shares.
School counselors can help with these decisions, offering
guidance on everything from college applications to financial aid.
They provide one-on-one meetings to help your family navigate the
process, so encourage your child to take advantage of these
resources.
Encouraging Research and Advocacy
When it comes to choosing a college, research is key.
Schumacher-Smith encourages students to take the initiative to
learn about their options before meeting with a counselor.
"Students should spend some time researching their interests and
potential careers," she suggests. "It's not just about finding the
right fit but also about understanding what's required to achieve
their goals."
Making Applications Stand Out
College applications are more than just a list of grades and
test scores—they're an opportunity for students to show who they
really are. Personal essays play a crucial role in this
process. "Colleges want to see who you are beyond your GPA and
test scores," Schumacher-Smith explains. "A well-written personal
essay can make a big difference. It's your chance to show what
makes you unique and why you'd be a great fit for their
institution." Encourage your child to take their time on their
essay and remind them that their counselor is available to help
with ideas and edits.
About National Heritage Academies:
National Heritage Academies (NHA) is a network of 100
tuition-free, public charter schools across nine states, serving
more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th
grade. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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SOURCE National Heritage Academies