AtomicMind 9th Graders: October Highlights
As your student settles into their freshman year, our team at AtomicMind is here to help your students make the most of their high school experience. This October, we're sharing insights from one of our esteemed Head Advisors, Charis, who specializes in supporting students in 8th to 12th grade. She's provided her top tips for thriving in high school, building strong resumes, and constructing compelling college applications.
Head Advisor Spotlight: Charis
Charis graduated from WashU in 2009 with a major in political science. She servesd as Associate Direct of Admissions, there, and including her time at WashU, she been in higher education for over 10 years.
Source of Inspiration: "My own college experience was truly transformative and I love helping students find a place that can provide the same for them."
What is your advice for high schoolers as they look ahead to college applications?
Create a narrative for yourself that centers around your intended major in college. Even if you're not completely sure, find an interest that you can explore in meaningful ways during high school, both through your academics and extracurriculars. When it comes time to apply to schools, you'll have a compelling story to tell in your essays about how you've pursued those interests so far, and can connect it to how you hope to do so in college.
Seek out opportunities beyond your high school. Students who stand out in the admissions process the most are those who've taken initiative to explore their interests outside high school doing things like research, service projects, or contests/competitions. Don't just apply for existing programs - make your own opportunities whenever possible!
Form meaningful relationships with your teachers and high school counselor. These are the people who will be writing your recommendation letters, which are a crucial part of your application! The best recommendations speak to a student's intellectual side but also their personal qualities and character.
Top Resume Builders in October:
At AtomicMind, we're passionate about connecting students with meaningful extracurricular experiences that support their academic growth and enhance their resume. Here is a list of some activities we're excited about this month:
- New York Times 100-Word Personal Narrative Contest
- Journal of Research High School (JRHS)
- Climate Science Olympiad
- Harvard International Review Academic Writing Contest
Please contact AtomicMind to learn more about how we can support your 9th grader.