Navigating the College Journey: A Guide for Rising Seniors and Incoming College Freshmen

by Marsha Twilley

As the school year progresses, rising high school seniors and soon-to-be college freshmen are facing a season of transition. Whether your student is preparing to apply to colleges or gearing up for their first semester away from home, now is the time to get organized and set them up for success. At Olive Orchard, we’re here to help students and parents navigate this exciting but sometimes overwhelming journey.

For Rising High School Seniors: Start Planning Now

The college application process can feel daunting, but starting early can make all the difference.

Now is the time to:

Craft a Standout Essay – Your personal statement is your chance to showcase your personality and experiences. We can help brainstorm, edit, and refine your student’s essays so they reflect their best self.
Stay on Top of Deadlines – College applications, scholarship opportunities, and FAFSA forms all come with deadlines. Let us help your student create a personalized plan to keep everything on track.
Prepare for College Life – Beyond applications, it’s important to think about what your student wants in a college, from academics to campus culture. We can guide you in making informed decisions about where to apply and what to expect.

For Incoming College Freshmen: A Smooth Transition

Adjusting to college life is a big step, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Olive Orchard can help your student:

Stay Organized with Assignments – Managing coursework independently is a new challenge. We provide tools and strategies to help your college freshman prioritize, meet deadlines, and succeed academically.
Balance Independence & Well-being – Living away from home means juggling responsibilities, social life, and self-care. We can help your student create a plan to stay focused and maintain a healthy balance.
Develop Strong Study Habits – College-level coursework requires new strategies. We offer coaching on effective study techniques, time management, and academic goal setting.

Set Your Student Up for Success

Whether your student is applying to college in the fall or starting their freshman year, having the right support can make all the difference. Olive Orchard offers personalized guidance to ensure students stay confident, organized, and prepared for what’s ahead. Let’s make this journey a smooth and successful one—reach out today to get started!