Use High School to Prepare for College
One of the most effective ways parents and high school students can ensure a smoother transition into the college years is by approaching high school with intention. When students view these years as a true college-prep period, they often discover that high school offers far more value than simply earning a diploma—if they’re willing to take advantage of the opportunities available to them.
At the same time, the high school years represent a parent’s best window to prepare financially for college. With thoughtful planning and collaboration, this period can become a powerful time of preparation for the entire family—academically, personally, and financially.
The good news? Turning a typical high school experience into a strong college preparation plan doesn’t require extraordinary effort. It does, however, require intentional planning. Students can’t simply run on autopilot, and parents need to stay actively engaged—especially when it comes to financial planning and asset management. The process is very achievable, and helping families do exactly this is what we do best.
This month’s newsletter is dedicated to explaining why these preparations matter and how families can make them happen. As always, if questions arise, we encourage you to reach out. College funding and admissions planning is complex, and working with experienced professionals allows families to receive clear, personalized guidance every step of the way.
Investigate Early College Credit Options
One excellent way students can get a head start on college is by earning college credit while still in high school. Many schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses that may count toward college credit at certain institutions. These classes aren’t right for every student, but for those with strong interest and aptitude, they can be a meaningful alternative to standard coursework.
In some areas, students may also have the opportunity to take individual college courses through partnerships with local community colleges or universities. These programs allow students to experience college-level expectations early—and in some cases, complete core courses before officially enrolling as a college freshman.
Beyond the academic benefits, early college credits can have a significant financial impact. Courses completed before arriving on campus are courses that won’t appear on a future tuition bill. Even shaving a single semester off a degree program can result in substantial savings.
Seek Out Academic and Extracurricular Experiences
High school can sometimes encourage students to take the “path of least resistance,” whether due to pressure, fatigue, or uncertainty. While challenging coursework can be valuable, success isn’t defined by AP classes alone—and they aren’t the right choice for every student.
What is essential is that students explore their interests, test their strengths, and begin learning what truly motivates them. Some students know early what they want to pursue, while others are still discovering their passions—and both paths are perfectly normal.
High school should not be about forcing students into narrow academic tracks too soon. Instead, it should offer space for exploration, growth, and meaningful engagement. That growth happens when students seek out experiences that inspire them—whether through academics, clubs, athletics, theater, leadership roles, or community involvement.
Yes, high school can be challenging at times. There will always be difficult classes or demanding semesters. But we believe it’s worth the effort to identify and pursue the opportunities that spark curiosity and build confidence. Those experiences often become the foundation of strong college applications—and, more importantly, personal growth.
Communicate Regularly with Counselors
Maintaining open communication with school counselors can be helpful during the college preparation process. While the level of support may vary, most counselors are familiar with graduation requirements and general college admissions expectations. Building a respectful, consistent relationship can also be beneficial when letters of recommendation or application paperwork are needed later on.
In addition to school counselors, we see ourselves as an essential part of a student’s support team. As college funding and admissions professionals, we provide up-to-date, actionable guidance tailored to each family’s unique goals and circumstances. We help families understand college options nationwide and develop strategies to manage the financial side of higher education effectively.
At the heart of our work is helping families prepare—academically and financially—for the college years ahead. With thoughtful planning, clear guidelines, and early engagement, parents can position their students for the widest range of college opportunities while confidently navigating the costs that come with them.
Preparing early truly makes all the difference.