I am so happy to continue our 3-Part Insider Guide to the College Admission Process with my guest, Alyse Levine, one of the country's most prominent college counseling experts. Today we're focusing on a grade-by-grade guide to supporting our kids on the path toward college applications.

Some of the topics we cover:

• Why middle school should be about focusing on healthy work habits
• How and when to make the most of clubs and after-school experiences
• Plotting out high school courses like a decision tree
• Why Alyse calls 10th grade "a pivotal year"
• What “demonstrated interest” is, and why it matters
• Different ways to visit colleges and when to start
• How and when to start creating your college list
• How to frame the (dreaded) personal essay to take off pressure
• Why there are no limits to essay topics (contrary to popular belief)
• How to decide whether to apply Early Decision
• Putting mental health first, always.

Spoiler: Even if you start late, it may not be late. Just breathe!

A special offer from Premium Prep: Mention Spawned for a free 30-minute college counseling session with a best-fit counselor at Premium Prep, who will be matched to your student. They've helped guide 93% of their students into one of their top three choices, so take advantage! She also describes on the podcast just what the team can do for you in those 30 minutes.

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