High School Resource Zone

Not really sure how your school counselor can help you prepare for college, or what exactly you should be asking them? We asked high school students what questions they had for a school counselor. Mrs. Euans, counselor at Postville High School, answers them.

impact: What questions should I be asking you?

Mrs. Euans: Anything that you are unsure of. This could be questions about what courses to take, college applications, scholarships, careers and more.

impact: What basic things do I need to do when I start high school to prepare for my last years of school?

Mrs. Euans: I believe you need a few key skills to be successful in high school. First, you will need to have organizational skills and the tools to assist you in this task. A planner that works for you may be just the answer. In high school you will be busy balancing school, extracurricular activities and maybe even a job. To keep all this straight, you need an organizational system that will help you be where you need to be and get the work done that needs to be done.

A second basic need for high school students is to be willing to try new things. At the high school level you will be exposed to new opportunities. It is up to you to decide which of these opportunities are beneficial and would be good for you to take advantage of.

A third important item is to have a positive attitude. If you have strong organizational skills, are willing to try new things and have a positive attitude, I believe you will have a successful high school experience.

impact: When should I first take the ACT/SAT?

Mrs. Euans: Most students take the ACT or the SAT for the first time during their junior year. The tests are offered in Iowa several times each year. You can take a test as often as you are willing to pay for it. Many students take either the SAT or the ACT test twice. Some take it more than twice.

impact: When should I start looking into colleges?

Mrs. Euans: I don't think you can start looking too soon. I do encourage juniors to make at least one college visit. I believe the campus visit is a very important step in making the decision as to which college is best for you. Many times the experience of being on the college campus is one that cements your decision.

impact: What are some common mistakes students make?

Mrs. Euans: Two common mistakes come to mind:

Not taking the most rigorous courses you can handle at the high school level. If you have not challenged yourself in high school, you may find college classes very overwhelming. It is important to develop strong study skills that you can take to college with you.

Choosing a college because that is where your best friend or boy/girlfriend is going.

impact: What is your advice for high school students so they stay on track for college?

Mrs. Euans: Stay focused on your goals. Take the courses that will prepare you to be successful at college. Get involved in at least one extracurricular activity. It's important to be a part of something.

impact: How can you help me prepare for college?

Mrs. Euans: A school counselor can be utilized in many different ways. School counselors can be used as a sounding board for college questions and your course schedules, as well as scholarships. Counselors love to hear about your successes, and we are also here to listen to you when you are having a difficult day or need help sorting out the details to make a good decision.

Thank you to the students who submitted questions for our chat today!