I just started a new semester with new classes, new teachers, and tons to do. One of my classes is an advanced English class and the work load seems almost impossible, but so far I’m doing well. I chose to take that class because it looks good to colleges and because my high school guidance counselor said I had the ability to take the class. I was a bit skeptical at first, but now I’m happy that I’m taking the course.

I’ve found from experience that it’s very important to talk to your school counselors. They’re there for a reason and they can help a great deal. They know what you need to do to get from point A to point B; they know what courses you’ve taken in the past and how well you’ve done. Depending on where you want to go, there are different things that colleges look for and your counselors will guide you in the right direction.

Now in my junior year, I feel the pressure. My high school career is almost over, it’s time to take the ACT and other required admissions tests, it’s an important year to keep up my grades, and everything I do counts. That’s where counselors come in: it helps to talk to someone who knows what they’re talking about.

I recently made an appointment with my guidance counselor and she helped me a great deal. When selecting my classes, she told me what courses I needed and the options I have regarding my future plans. I wasn’t sure exactly where I wanted to go to college or even what I’m remotely interested in doing as far as a career goes, but she helped a lot. We focused on what requirements I need to meet for graduation and we organized what I should do before high school ends. I was glad I talked to her. I picked the right schedule for me and it took a lot of pressure off knowing what needed to be done and just taking it step by step.