I have heard many students worried about the difficulty of this period of time in 11th grade, and how hard it can be to juggle all of the requirements of teachers. I know it’s hard, and I’m here to help you get motivated and keep your eyes on the goal of finding your best college option. So, find your favorite study spot, get settled, and read on…
Why should you ace your winter exams?
1. Your grades and classes continue to be the most important factor in your applications to college.
Even studying a little bit more could edge you up one grade, and that can matter in college admissions processes next year. A recent report from NACAC confirms that has been true year after year. So there you have it – these grades matter, a lot. Most college admissions officers will tell you that 11th grade results are your most important grades of all.
2. Your next semester is built upon this semester.
The way you end this semester is the way you start the next one. Yes, you get a new year to start, but if you’ve not mastered some of your math concepts, or haven’t read all assigned texts, you will find those missed steps coming back to haunt you on cumulative work later in the year. This content can also impact your standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, AP, Subject Tests, IB Exams). You may be called upon to regurgitate knowledge or conceptual understandings in five or six months, and if you have cut corners, your scores may suffer.
3. Good will with your teachers pays dividends later.
Finishing strong creates goodwill with your teachers. They are the source of your grades – don’t forget! Attending study sessions offered by teachers, reaching out with questions, and demonstrating a desire to do well can go a long way toward creating a positive impression of you as a student. This will not only help your grades; it will also set the stage for having a great teacher recommendation next year.
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All of this work will pay off when you have a nice, long winter break with luxurious mornings to sleep in, fun-filled evenings hanging out with family or friends, and extra time to work, travel, or whatever else you need to do. Keep your eyes open in the next couple of weeks for our blog on the release of PSAT scores this month.
Nicole has dedicated the entirety of her 20 year career to encouraging higher education opportunities. After graduating from Vanderbilt, she worked in her alma mater’s admissions office. The, she completed her PhD in Counseling so she could bring that expertise into college counseling. Nicole partnered with her former Vanderbilt colleague, Fitz Totten, to form Find The Right College and support their mission to make trustworthy advising more accessible.
