High Performance Academics Blog

The college admissions process is a significant milestone in your child’s life, but it can also be a source of immense stress. Between balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, standardized tests, and the pressure to make life-changing decisions, it’s no wonder that many students feel overwhelmed. As a parent, you play a crucial role in helping your child navigate this challenging time with confidence and resilience. At High Performance Academics, we’re here to share strategies to help your child manage stress during the college admissions process. 1.  Encourage Open Communication One of the most effective ways to help your child manage stress is to maintain open lines of communication. Let them know that they can come to you with their concerns, fears, and frustrations without fear of judgment. Being a supportive listener can make a world of difference. Tips for Encouraging Communication: Create a Safe Space:  Ensure your child knows that they can express their feelin...

Choosing a college major is one of the most significant decisions your child will make during their academic journey. For many students, this decision can feel overwhelming, especially if they’re unsure about their future career path. At High Performance Academics, we understand that it’s okay to be undecided, and we’re here to help guide you through the process of choosing the right major. Here are some practical tips to help your child make an informed and confident decision. 1.  Explore Interests and Passions The first step in choosing a college major is for your child to explore their interests and passions. Encourage them to think about the subjects they enjoy studying, the activities that make them lose track of time, and the topics they’re curious about. These can provide valuable clues about potential majors. Questions to Consider: What subjects do you excel in and enjoy the most in high school? Are there hobbies or extracurricular activities that you’re passionate about? W...

The college application essay is one of the most critical components of your child’s application. It’s their opportunity to speak directly to the admissions committee, showcasing their personality, values, and what makes them unique. However, many students struggle with crafting a compelling essay that stands out from the crowd. At High Performance Academics, we’re here to help you navigate this challenge. Here are some common mistakes to avoid and tips for crafting a winning college application essay. 1.  Common Mistakes to Avoid Even the brightest students can fall into common pitfalls when writing their college essays. Here’s what to watch out for: Choosing a Cliché Topic:  Topics like “how I overcame a sports injury” or “my mission trip experience” are common and can be difficult to make stand out. Encourage your child to choose a topic that reflects their unique experiences and perspectives. Focusing Too Much on Others:  Some students write essays that primarily focu...

When it comes to college admissions, extracurricular activities play a significant role in showcasing a student's interests, talents, and character. However, many students and parents wonder what colleges are truly looking for: Is it better to have a long list of activities or to focus on a few meaningful ones? At High Performance Academics, we emphasize the importance of quality over quantity in extracurricular involvement. Here’s why depth and commitment matter more than the sheer number of activities. 1.  Why Extracurriculars Matter Extracurricular activities provide colleges with a fuller picture of who your child is beyond their academic achievements. They reveal what your child is passionate about, how they manage their time, and how they contribute to their community. Admissions officers use extracurriculars to assess qualities such as leadership, initiative, creativity, and resilience—traits that are essential for success in college and beyond. 2.  Quality Over Quantit...

As your child begins the college application process, one of the key decisions they'll need to make is whether to apply Early Decision (ED) or Regular Decision (RD). Each option has its pros and cons, and the choice can significantly impact your child’s college admissions journey. At High Performance Academics, we’re here to help you understand these options so you can determine the best path for your child. 1.  Understanding Early Decision (ED) Early Decision is a binding agreement between the student and the college. When your child applies ED, they agree that if accepted, they will attend that college and withdraw all other college applications. Typically, ED applications are due in October/November, with decisions released in December. Pros of Early Decision: Higher Acceptance Rates:  Colleges often admit a higher percentage of applicants through ED compared to RD. This can be advantageous if your child is set on a particular college. Demonstrated Commitment:  Applyin...

The college admissions process is more competitive than ever, with thousands of students vying for spots at top schools. While a strong GPA and solid test scores are important, they aren’t the only factors that colleges consider. Admissions committees are looking for well-rounded students who bring unique experiences and perspectives to their campus. So, how can your child stand out in their college applications? Here’s what they need to know to make a lasting impression beyond the numbers. 1.  Craft a Compelling Personal Statement The personal statement is one of the few places where students can showcase their personality, values, and voice. Encourage your child to choose a topic that is meaningful to them and reflects their authentic self. Whether it’s a story about overcoming a challenge, a passion project, or a significant life experience, the essay should reveal something about who they are and what motivates them. Tips for Success: Be Authentic:  Admissions officers can...