By Dr. Adero-Zaire Green-Kingston
Founder & CEO, Green Kingston Group LLC
Founder, Learning to Leadership™ Student Success Academy 

For many families, college planning becomes urgent during senior year. 

Suddenly there are applications, essays, recommendations, scholarships, financial aid questions, and deadlines everywhere. 

But some of the most important college preparation should happen long before senior year begins. 

Grades 9 and 10 Matter 

Freshman and sophomore year are important foundation years. 

Students can begin exploring academic interests, careers, extracurricular activities, leadership opportunities, community service, and summer programs. 

They do not need to have everything figured out. 

The goal is exploration. 

“Early college planning should create curiosity, not anxiety.” 

Junior Year Should Become More Strategic 

By Grade 11, students should begin developing a thoughtful college list, researching admissions requirements, identifying scholarships, and understanding important deadlines. 

This is also a good time to begin thinking about personal statements, recommendation letters, résumés, financial planning, and possible majors. 

Starting earlier gives students time to make informed choices instead of rushed decisions. 

College Planning Is About Fit 

A strong college list should not simply include familiar or prestigious names. 

Students should consider academics, campus environment, career opportunities, cost, scholarships, location, student support, and personal goals. 

The right college is not necessarily the most recognizable one. It is the one that gives the student the strongest opportunity to thrive. 

At Learning to Leadership™, we help students prepare early so senior year becomes a time to execute a plan rather than create one from scratch. 

Where Should Your Student Begin? 

Students in Grades 9–10 can begin with the Foundation Pathway. 

Students in Grades 11–12 can receive more comprehensive support through the University Success Pathway. 

Take the Student Success Assessment or Schedule a Discovery Consultation to get started.