The earlier, the better is the mantra at Ivy Options when advising families on the best timing for students to start working with us. Many clients join us in 11th grade, but by then, half of their high school career is over – and unchangeable. By actively engaging in preparation for the college application process as early as middle school, ideally 7th or 8th grades, students and their families have much greater scope to shape and strengthen their profile, thereby making their university goals more achievable.
To facilitate this, Ivy Options has recently launched IO Portfolio: online learning opportunities that empower our younger students to lay the groundwork for the college application process. By completing modules, our clients will develop a distinctive portfolio of activities, learning, and reflections. These exercises will be assigned by Ivy Options’ counselors on an as-needed basis, ensuring each student receives guidance tailored to their unique needs.
Here are some key components of IO Portfolio:
1. Vision Board Brainstorming: Students are encouraged to visualize their goals and create an e-board, helping them clarify their long-term aspirations.
2. Soft Skill Modules: These lessons help students develop essential soft skills expected in university students and job candidates. McKinsey Global Institute expects the demand for emotional and social skills to increase 24% by 2030. Therefore, our lesson topics currently include Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Belonging, and Community Building, with new being developed regularly.
3. Reflections and Pre-Writing: Through reflective exercises, students collect thoughts and ideas, setting the stage for resume and essay writing in the final two years of high school and beyond.
4. Exploring Internships and Career Options: The IO Portfolio serves as a way for students to discover and find internships, career interests, and college majors.
In the past, achieving a high grade point average and high test scores were enough to gain admission to selective universities. However, in an increasingly competitive and complex higher education landscape, it has become critical to develop and nurture skills that will make students stand out for university admissions and beyond. Please contact Ivy Options to get started.