Part 1: What to do from Thanksgiving to Christmas

Although it’s hard to believe, the holiday season is already upon us. That means most of us will be busier than ever—including high school students. This is especially true for college-bound students, as there is plenty left to be done before graduation. Prioritizing tasks to complete is of utmost importance during this hectic time. Here is a list of ideas for the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks (to be followed mid-month by another blog focusing on Christmas break alone.)

For many high school seniors, this can be a very stressful time of year. With some of the biggest college application deadlines being in November, many students are scrambling in order to meet deadlines for multiple schools. But once that submit button is hit, you can take a deep breath. You have completed the work that needs to be done—you’ve built a good list of colleges you’d like to attend, you’ve written great essays, and you’ve completed all the pieces required thus far for each application. But there are still things you need to consider while waiting for an admission decision to be released.

As the leaves change and a new season approaches, so does the opportunity for parents to guide their children toward an exciting educational journey. Whether you're considering private or boarding schools, here are some essential steps to help you confidently navigate the admissions season.

With the college admission season in full swing, high school seniors are scrambling to complete the Common App and apply to the colleges of their choice. These applications include information about grades, standardized test scores and extracurricular activities—all critical in assessing a student’s eligibility for admission. But what about the college essay? How much does it influence the application decision?