Preparing for the Future
Bob Lourdel, Hi-Lite Coaching and Counseling
Judith O’Donnell, The Guidance Guru
From full remote learning in 2020, to hybrid classes in 2021, to moving fully in-person for the 2022 year, rising juniors and seniors have been pushed academically, socially, mentally, physically, and professionally. It’s no wonder that high school seniors, fatigued by online learning, are reconsidering their options.
“So many of our seniors didn’t have the opportunity to visit campuses, or speak with college admissions officers about their options,” says Judith O’Donnell, a writer, editor, and academic coach at The Guidance Guru. “It’s left them less confident in their decision and next steps, and for good reason.”
So how does a post-pandemic junior or senior prepare for college? How do they figure out which path is right for them?
“It’s all about priorities, evaluating your personal goals,” says Bob Lourdel, a life coach with Hi-Lite Coaching and Counseling.
“I have talked to several students regarding the pandemic, and many have struggled with the online learning methods. There is a lot to be said about how isolation affects attitude. Another effect of the pandemic I have heard from students is lost opportunities, especially as it relates to social events and scholarship opportunities, sports, music and theater performances. Both of which is having a significant impact on their desire and confidence in choose to go to college, let alone where or how to get there.”
Bob says, “When I work with kids in this situation, we first try to discover where their real passions and goals align. If college is still front and center, it’s important for them to know that they have options. There is nothing wrong with taking a gap year, or choosing to work while you take the time to vet the right colleges. If Fall 2023 seems too fast, consider Spring or Fall 2024. Take the pressure off yourself.”
“If finances are a concern due to lost scholarship opportunities, we help identify the affordable options that are still available to them, such as Bright Futures, dual enrollment, Direct Connect programs like Valencia to four-year school, and more. Finances do not have to be an obstacle for continuing their education. There is a wealth of resources available to both students and parents of students,” he continues. “Some include financial literacy, resume writing for college or future employment, college application tips and tools. All provide great experiences, which translate well in their next steps into adulthood.”
Judith adds, “No matter where you are in your college decision process, taking the time to prepare for SATs/ACTs, even in your senior year, can reap great financial rewards through scholarship opportunities. Taking advantage of a senior year of in-person learning can also help students that feel behind academically gain a new confidence in their academic skills.”
Its worth noting that after the pandemic, many colleges have changed their admissions processes to test-optional. During the pandemic, SAT and ACT test centers were shut down and 80% of four-year colleges and universities switched to test-optional. Now there are two different ways colleges have students apply: there are numbers and holistic. When colleges use the numbers process, they look at your SAT, ACT, AP, and GPA. When colleges use the holistic process, they look at the whole student and how that student could make an impact on the school.
While Judith can help students prep for formal testing, she specifically excels at working with students on their personal essays, crafting a unique narrative that helps their holistic application stand out. “Creating a theme and brainstorming sessions can help students create an outline for a personal essay that truly stands out,” she says.
Lastly, Bob says, “Learning how to network is one aspect that I think would help seniors, and juniors, the most. A lot of students are hesitant to take the initiative in asking adults for help. Whether it be a teacher or coach or boss or guidance counselor, students can tap into a wealth of connections and resources which could turn into life-changing opportunities for them.”
