Now that your child has settled into the rhythm of high school, leaving behind the growing pains of 9th grade, it's clear they're maturing rapidly. This transition marks an exciting and pivotal moment in their high school journey. As they grow academically and personally, it's also the perfect time to shift gears and focus on college preparation. Sophomore year is not just about maintaining good grades and managing coursework; it's a crucial period for setting the stage for college success. Taking proactive steps now can help ensure your child is well-prepared and confident when it comes time to apply to their dream schools. Let's dive into the key areas to focus on this year to make the college application process smoother and more manageable.

1. Enroll in AP or IB Classes

Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes offer college-level coursework in high school. These classes challenge students academically and can provide college credit, which may save time and money in the future. According to the College Board, students who take AP classes and exams are 62% more likely to graduate from college on time than their peers. Additionally, students earning a 3 or higher on AP exams can save thousands of dollars in college tuition by earning college credit. AP courses are widely recognized in the U.S. and Canada, while IB programs are internationally recognized. Both programs require students to take standardized exams at the end of the course to potentially earn college credit.

2. Consider Junior College Classes

Encourage your child to take classes at a local junior college that relate to their interests. This is a great way to explore different fields, discover passions, and get a head start on college coursework. These credits may also count towards high school graduation or future college requirements. Don't be afraid to let them try different things—this exploration is valuable for long-term decision-making. Dual enrollment programs, including taking classes at junior colleges, increase the likelihood of students enrolling in college by 10 percentage points, according to a U.S. Department of Education study.

3. Visit College Campuses

Sophomore year is an ideal time to start visiting college campuses. Encourage your child to visit various schools to get a feel for different environments and cultures. According to a National Survey of Student Engagement study, students who visit college campuses are 26% more likely to graduate within four years. It's not uncommon for students to find that a school they are interested in doesn't match their expectations once they visit. Early visits help them refine their preferences and make more informed choices. One of the more costly issues for parents is if their child changes schools or majors. This can add significant time to their college career and increase your college bill. 

4. Explore Potential Careers

Start exploring potential career interests with your child. If possible, arrange for them to shadow a professional in a field they're curious about. This could be a family member or a trusted friend. Shadowing provides a realistic glimpse into daily routines and responsibilities, helping your child determine if they want to pursue it.

5. Join Camps, Clubs, or Programs

Encourage your child to participate in camps, clubs, or programs that align with their interests. Whether it's a music camp, writing clinic, or robotics club, these activities can deepen their passion and provide valuable experiences. Additionally, students who participate in extracurricular activities are three times more likely to have a GPA above 3.0, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. These extracurriculars also look great on college applications, demonstrating commitment and involvement beyond academics.

6. Engage in Volunteer Work

Volunteering is a wonderful way for your child to give back to the community and develop as a person. While we hope they volunteer out of genuine desire, these experiences also enhance college applications. Colleges often look beyond GPA and test scores to see the whole person, and volunteer work can showcase your child's compassion and commitment to service. In fact, 81% of admissions officers agree that volunteer work can be a deciding factor in college acceptance (Corporation for National and Community Service).

7. Plan for SAT/ACT Exams

While some schools have eliminated SAT/ACT requirements, many are beginning to reinstate them. Sophomore year is a good time to start planning for these exams. Starting early allows for significant score improvements. On average, students who take the SAT more than once improve their scores by nearly 40 points, according to the College Board. Additionally, ACT, Inc. data shows that students taking the ACT more than once see an average composite score increase of 2.9 points. Taking practice tests and beginning preparation early can lead to significant score improvements. At Auxilium, we offer tools and resources to help your child prepare effectively, ensuring they perform their best.

8. Consider Financial Aid

Financial aid is an important aspect to consider during the sophomore year. The FAFSA considers tax returns from the latter half of the sophomore year into the beginning of the junior year. If potential financial issues might affect your eligibility, now is the time to address them. This includes things such as income over $150,000 AGI, significant 529 balances, and rental properties. Working with a college expert can help you plan accordingly. If you think you might fall outside the parameters for financial aid, don't wait—book a call with us. Starting early provides more options and better planning. 

9. Develop Strong Study Habits

Sophomore year is an excellent time for your child to develop and refine their study habits. Good study habits are crucial for academic success, not just in high school but also in college. Encourage your child to set up a dedicated study space, establish a regular schedule, and use tools like planners or apps to stay organized. A study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that students who develop regular study schedules and environments are 23% more likely to achieve academic success. Developing these habits now will make the more demanding junior and senior years more manageable.

10. Strengthen Writing Skills

Writing is a critical skill for success in college. Strong writing skills will serve your child well, whether it's for college application essays, term papers, or class assignments. Please encourage your child to take writing seriously in their English and history classes and seek out additional writing opportunities, such as joining the school newspaper or entering writing competitions. Consider enrolling them in a writing workshop or hiring a tutor if needed.

As your child embarks on their sophomore year, it's the perfect time to begin focusing on college preparation. By enrolling in AP or IB classes, exploring junior college options, visiting campuses, and considering potential careers, you're laying a solid foundation for their future. Engaging in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and planning for standardized tests will further enhance their college applications and personal growth. Developing solid study habits and honing writing skills will set them up for academic success.

While it may feel like college is a distant dream, the steps you take now can make a significant difference down the road. Starting early gives your child a head start, allowing them to explore their interests, build their resume, and navigate the college application process with confidence. At Auxilium, we're here to support you every step of the way with our extensive experience and personalized counseling programs. Reach out to us to begin planning your child's path to success. The earlier you start, the more prepared and empowered your child will be when the time comes to apply to their dream schools.

At Auxilium, we have over 30 years of experience helping parents like you get their students into their dream schools while paying a fraction of the cost. We offer one-on-one counseling programs that can guide you through every step of the college process, starting as early as middle school. Don’t hesitate to reach out and let us help you navigate this journey with confidence.