For Students and Parents
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Take initiative in developing academic interests
Start SAT I/II preparation early
Establish trends in extra-curricular activities
Connect present activities and academics to the future
Work hard now, breathe easy later
 

Insight believes that sophomores need to emphasize the importance of taking initiative. Because colleges begin to look more carefully at a tenth grader’s academic records and activities, the Insight counseling program is designed to help sophomores take a proactive interest in their studies and pursuits. Therefore, a sophomore at Insight can expect to:

Take initiative in developing academic interests 
Sophomores often begin taking advanced placement and honors courses, as well as electives that are geared towards potential areas of interest. Not only does the Insight program help students attain their academic potential, but it also helps students develop a positive, proactive attitude towards academics. This includes learning how to study activ3ely and efficiently, taking tests with confidence, and communicating effectively with teachers to develop strong relationships.

Start SAT I/II preparation early 
Sophomores often think it is too early to begin SAT testing, but in fact, it is wise to start early and prevent burn-out in the junior year. The counseling program helps students plan out their SAT testing dates, set goals, and develop the skills and strategies that are necessary to succeed on these exams. Sophomores can also take advantage of Insight’s diagnostic testing and detailed score reports to learn exactly where their strengths and areas for improvement lie. At Insight, SAT goals are set in stages, one year at a time, to ensure that students have a realistic time frame in which to attain their desired SAT scores.

Establish trends in extra-curricular activities 
Colleges look for students who have defined passions and have explored them to a certain depth.  Insight counselors provide guidance on how to create unique extra-curricular profiles that highlight the student’s interests and demonstrate the student’s leadership ability. Together, the counselor and the student pinpoint the student’s specific interests, and the counselor directs the student to appropriate organizations and service groups in the community. Often, counselors will research specialized programs or opportunities that are tailored to the student’s needs.

Connect present activities and academics to the future 
This component of the Insight counseling program helps students understand that what they do now will determine what they are able to accomplish in the future. In order to help students define their goals and stay focused on working towards their own success, counselors guide students in researching colleges, considering majors, and learning about college admissions requirements.
Work hard now, breathe easy later 
Ultimately, the underlying message for sophomores is to plan and prepare now so that the junior year and the application process goes more smoothly. Students who achieve high grades in the sophomore year, establish solid extra-curricular activities, and begin standardized testing, save a lot of time, energy, and stress in the junior and senior years. Thus, sophomores in the Insight program are one step ahead in the admissions process.