Stage 1 of 7
Foundation
Build habits, not urgency.
- Timeframe
- Summer before 9th grade through Freshman year
- Primary goal
- Build habits and create opportunities.
- Effort
- A little attention at the start of high school pays off later. Most of the work in this stage happens through ordinary school routines, with a few intentional conversations at course-selection and end-of-year checkpoints.
Quick Start
Start with these three priorities:
- 1Start a running record of activities and achievements — today, not later.
- 2Help your student build sustainable study habits from the first week.
- 3Review 10th-grade course options and seek counselor guidance before registration closes.
Stage Snapshot
Freshman year isn't supposed to feel like the college application process. This is a time to settle into high school, develop good study habits, explore interests, and begin keeping track of experiences and achievements.
There's no need to build a college list or start preparing applications. What matters now is creating a strong foundation while giving your student room to discover what they enjoy. It's also worth knowing that some scholarships are available before senior year, so you can keep an eye out for opportunities that fit your student's interests.
Starting partway through 9th grade, or coming to this a little late?
Nothing here assumes a perfect start. Focus on what makes sense for the rest of the year rather than worrying about what you haven't done.
Unlock the complete Foundation guide.
- Six prioritized action steps
- Guidance on courses and extracurriculars
- Parent and student responsibilities
- Common mistakes and what can wait
Full access includes all seven stages, Trusted Resources, Deadlines, the Family Planning Meeting, and the Scholarship Tracker.