We introduce the college application process to younger students in a way that eases them in - minimizing anxiety and confusion while answering their questions about the application process. 

In a series of sessions with the student or the family, we will focus on essential admissions topics like: 

• Understanding your likely course trajectory at your school and anticipating any scheduling challenges.
• Balancing the importance of course rigor with mental health.
• Understanding the role of rigorous coursework (of AP, IB, DE, Honors) in the admissions process.
• Identifying extracurricular commitments and pathways to deepen and expand through high school.
• Completing basic college research, and gaining familiarity with different categories of schools and the college landscape.
• Sharing our 3-pronged approach to ECs: school-based engagement, helping someone else, and passion projects.
• Discussing “spikiness vs roundedness” and laying the seeds of a plan for your application narrative.

We believe that a college education is something students should take ownership of. This begins in the first year of high school. 

Want to know more about our approach to college admissions? Take a look at our philosophy about college admissions. Our team page is also a great resource to meet the faces of Sierra and learn a bit more about what makes us special. Or if you have specific questions about our work, methodology, or logistics, our FAQ page is a great place to start.