9th Grade. Start strong in high school.
“We wanted to make sure that we set ourselves on the right path both academically and with respect to our daughters artistic interests. Meeting with ARTriculate in 9th grade set our mind at ease.”
Library at Vassar College
Plan your high school curriculum and extracurricular activities including wide exposure in the arts… but make sure to leave time to learn what excites you.
The beginning of high school is the time to open your eyes to the options both within school and extracurricularly outside of school. Many students take visual and performing arts classes at local art studios but developing a strong academic record is very important as well.
We work with you to map out your four years of high school that includes:
academic coursework,
foreign language,
creative extracurricular activities,
community service, and
summer activities.
A meeting during 9th grade can answer questions and set you on your way for a successful four years of high school.
It’s also not too early to start visiting colleges. If you’re taking a trip to visit relatives or friends, see what schools are nearby and sign up for a tour. This helps see what types of environments you like, and importantly shows demonstrated interest, colleges track when and how often you interact with them, so this could be the only time you can visit, make sure school know you were there. Read more about demonstrated interest in our blog.
Big tips:
Start keeping a written record of activities participated in and awards/accolades received. You’ll need this list when completing your college applications.
Once you start signing up for college tours remember to check your email and respond, it’s a way to show demonstrated interest.
Try making new art by taking a class in a new medium or taking on a role in the school play either on stage or behind the stage on the tech team, you never know what you’ll discover you love.
Start keeping a sketchbook and/or a journal, make doodles, make notes. A sketchbook is every creative’s best friend.
Visit our resources page for links to many helpful sites.