August 28, 2025
College Planning Checklist: Stay on Track for Success
Planning for college can feel overwhelming, but breaking the process into clear steps makes it much more manageable. Whether you’re a high school junior just starting to think about your options or a senior preparing to hit submit, following a structured plan will make a big difference.
1. Research Colleges Early
Explore schools that align with your academic interests, career goals, and personal preferences. Consider key factors such as:
- Location (urban vs. rural, close to home vs. out-of-state)
- Size (small liberal arts colleges vs. large universities)
- Cost and financial aid opportunities
- Majors and academic strengths
- Campus culture and student life
2. Build Your Academic Profile
Strong academics are the foundation of any college application. To stand out, focus on:
- Maintaining high grades in core subjects
- Preparing thoroughly for the SAT or ACT (if required by your target schools)
- Challenging yourself with AP, honors, IB, or community college classes
3. Get Involved Outside the Classroom
Colleges look for well-rounded students who contribute to their communities. The key is not just joining but demonstrating long-term commitment and leadership. Participate in:
- Clubs and organizations
- Sports and athletics
- Volunteer work or community service
- Jobs or internships
4. Visit Campuses (In-Person or Virtual)
Campus tours provide valuable insight into what life at a particular school might look like. Take notes on what you like and what you don’t. Pay attention to:
- Campus size and layout
- Dorms and housing options
- Classroom environment
- Student organizations and activities
5. Organize Applications
Deadlines come up quickly, so organization is key. Keep a calendar to track:
- Application due dates
- Essay drafts and revisions
- Recommendation letter requests
- Financial aid forms (FAFSA, CSS Profile, etc.)
6. Explore Financial Aid Options
College affordability is just as important as admissions. Begin researching scholarships, grants, and work-study programs early. File your FAFSA as soon as it opens, and compare financial aid offers carefully before making a decision.
7. Plan for the Transition
Your checklist doesn’t end with an acceptance. Think ahead about:
- Housing assignments
- Orientation programs
- What you’ll need for your dorm or first year
At
StrivePath, we specialize in guiding students every step of the way with personalized college planning strategies. With a well-structured
college planning checklist,
your path becomes clearer, more organized, and far more achievable.
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Why We Are Excited to Deliver Our Services to the Fremont Community We are thrilled to announce the opening of StrivePath’s sixth office in Fremont, a location driven by the demand from local parents who are seeking relief from the stress and noise often associated with college and academic planning. As Fremont is known for its high-pressure environment, our mission is clear: to create a balanced and student-centered approach that focuses on what truly matters—the student’s growth, happiness, and long-term success. At StrivePath, we believe that the journey to college is about much more than just the destination. It’s about who the student becomes along the way. We’re not here to focus solely on admissions to prestigious schools; instead, we aim to foster students’ personal growth, helping them discover their interests, build strong academic habits, and develop the confidence needed to thrive in whatever path they choose. StrivePath’s Student-Centered Approach Our Fremont office reflects this commitment to holistic, personalized guidance. We recognize the complexity of the high school-to-college transition and the increasing stress families feel in the face of competing priorities. By offering in-person support, we aim to alleviate that pressure and give families the clarity they need to make confident academic and career decisions. Meet Maiya, StrivePath’s Fremont Consultant We are excited to introduce Maiya, who will lead our Fremont office with expertise, compassion, and dedication to helping families navigate the college admissions process. A Silicon Valley native, Maiya brings a wealth of experience as both an academic and college counselor. She has worked in both boarding and public schools, gaining a deep understanding of the varied needs of students from all walks of life. Maiya’s approach is rooted in her extensive background, having attended 200+ college tours across the U.S. and Canada. She has a deep understanding of both domestic and international college admissions processes, having reviewed first-year applications for three UC campuses. Her exposure to different academic systems, including International Baccalaureate (IB), makes her uniquely qualified to guide families through a broad range of college options. With a BA in Sociology from Brandeis University, a certificate in College Admissions and Career Planning from UC Berkeley Extension, and a MA/MEd in School Counseling from Columbia University, Maiya brings both academic rigor and practical knowledge to her role. Above all, she is driven by a genuine desire to ensure families have the information they need to make the best college and career decisions for their students. “I’m passionate about supporting students and families in their educational journeys. StrivePath’s student-first philosophy truly resonates with me, and I’m excited to help families find peace and clarity during this important process,” Maiya shares. Why Families Choose StrivePath At StrivePath, we aim to reduce the stress that often accompanies academic and college planning. Our approach is designed to: Reduce Stress: We offer a supportive, student-focused environment where families feel heard and seen. Focus on What Matters: Our goal is to foster students’ self-awareness, identify their interests, and nurture their strengths—not just to secure a spot at a prestigious school. Bring Clarity: From academic planning to career exploration, we help families navigate each step of the process with confidence and ease. Through our in-person consultations, we bring local expertise, data-driven insights, and decades of experience to help families make thoughtful decisions and achieve better outcomes. Visit Us in Fremont Our Fremont office is now open and ready to serve the local community. If you’re a parent looking to reduce the stress of the college planning process and would like a more holistic, student-centered approach, we’d love to meet with you. Maiya and the StrivePath team are here to help guide you through this transformative journey. Let’s focus on what truly matters: building your student’s best self. Happier Students. Less Stressed Families. Better Admission Outcomes. Learn more or schedule a consultation at www.mystrivepath.com
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