High School: Preparation & Goal-Setting

As students move through high school, each year brings new opportunities and challenges that help shape their future. Student success is built through preparation and intentional goal-setting from freshman year expectations to applying for colleges. 

While striving for success, it’s important for students to prioritize mental health and wellness habits that support a balanced and healthy experience. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it emphasizes the importance that being well means being prepared for high school students. 

ASU’s Devils4Devils has a high school program, Peer-to-Peer Impact that continues to encourage students to focus not only on academic achievement, but also on their overall well-being as they navigate these important years.

After ACT scores are released, students play the waiting game when it reaches the time to apply to colleges. So, students can take advantage of opportunities like Accelerate ASU and ACT, which allows high school students to begin earning college credit before graduation. Through the partnership between ACT and ASU, students can explore courses in STEM, humanities, business, leadership and more while gaining early exposure to college-level learning. 

The program offers flexible summer options with no applications or GPA requirements, helping students explore potential majors and build confidence in their academic abilities. Programs like these encourage students to make meaningful use of their summer months while continuing to prepare for future goals. 

As May marks a time of reflection from the past school year, everyone is encouraged to pause and think about the moments of success. Peer-to-peer support also plays an important role, as students often learn best from one another’s experiences and encouragement.

Academic success and mental wellness often go hand in hand. Taking care of mental health can help students manage stress and feel more confident when facing transitions between grade levels and after graduation.

A college education can open doors to career opportunities and personal growth, whether students have a path in mind or are still exploring their interests. Students can find the most effective way to stay on track by setting SMART goals. These goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. By setting these expectations, students stay motivated while balancing the new structure of college life.