Parents of sophomore students were invited to this year’s college information night. The event has previously only been open to parent of juniors.
The meeting, held on January 13, discussed college preparation tips, the college application processes, testing dates, changes in the SAT, and other upcoming events for college bound students.
According to College and Career counselor Joan Batcheller, about 200 parents attended the meeting.
Batcheller confirmed that this was the first time parents of sophomores were included. “I felt that sophomore parents should be involved in the process earlier than junior year,” she said. Batcheller said that the earlier parents understand the process, the easier it will be for them to build a realistic college list. “The main point is,” she said, “that students find a financially safe and academically safe college.”
Parent Club co-treasurer and parent of s sophomore student Stacy Giglio said, “It’s nice to get all the info before you actually have to start worrying about it. It kept me calmer.”
“Grades are the number one thing for sophomores and juniors,” Giglio said.
“That’s the most important,” Batcheller said. “Sophomore year counts, as far as what schools are looking for. Same for junior year as well.”
Batcheller suggested juniors have a vigorous academic schedule, and take some AP classes, especially those of interest. However, Batcheller also noted that it’s important not to overload. “Mental health is more important than AP classes,” she admitted.
It was also recommended that sophomores and juniors visit colleges over vacations or school breaks. Batcheller told parents about upcoming opportunities to learn more about colleges, including a Santa Clara University trip on January 28, and an out of state college fair, with colleges like University of Kansas, Hamilton University, and University of Puget Sound, on March 19. A calendar of events can be found on the Campolindo website under Academics, then College & Career.
Another topic discussed was using the net price calculator, used to determine the amount colleges expect families to pay in tuition and other expenses.
The rest of the meeting covered test dates for the ACT and SAT, and SAT format changes. A full list of changes can be picked up at the College and Career Center in the library.
