Middle School Students
& Families
It’s never too early to start building a path to the future. From career exploration to early college planning, College Now supports middle school students in taking important first steps and helping families feel confident about the path ahead.
Your Journey Starts Here!
Middle school is the perfect time to start exploring what’s possible for the future. Our team of advisors are here to support middle school students and their families, providing them with the tools, guidance and encouragement to begin thinking about college and career paths early.
Middle School Guide to College and
Career Readiness
Grades 6-8 are an exciting time to start laying the foundation for future success. By building awareness and setting goals now, students can gain confidence and clarity as they prepare for high school and beyond.
Grades 6 & 7
As students move through grades 6 & 7, it’s a great time to begin thinking ahead. Developing good habits now like staying organized, exploring new interests and setting personal goals can help build the skills needed for high school success, and open doors to future college and career opportunities. The steps you take today can lay the groundwork for an exciting and successful future.
Develop strong study habits
Create a consistent study schedule and learn effective note-taking techniques.
Focus on your core subjects
Build a strong foundation in subjects such as math, English, social studies and science.
Get to know your teachers
Positive relationships with teachers can often grow into mentorship opportunities and meaningful college endorsements.
Explore interests through extracurricular activities
Join clubs, sports teams and other activities that spark your interest.
Research high schools and special programs
Explore high school options that align with your current and future interests.
Grade 8
Grade 8 is a key year to begin focusing more intentionally on the road ahead. With high school just around the corner, it’s important to strengthen your academic habits, get involved in activities you enjoy and start thinking about your goals for the future. The choices you make now can help set you up for success in high school and prepare you for the college and career opportunities that follow.
Develop strong study habits
Establish a consistent study schedule and learn effective note-taking techniques.
Start thinking about college
Begin talking to your family and school counselors about your future post-high school.
Get involved in extracurriculars
Get involved in clubs, sports, music or volunteering to uncover what you enjoy and highlight your diverse skillset.
Build relationships with teachers and mentors
Build strong connections with teachers and mentors can provide valuable guidance, support and future opportunities like college recommendations and career advice.
Programs
Talent Search
Educational Talent Search is one of three federally funded TRIO programs designed to guide and support students starting in middle school. This program helps first-generation students explore higher education by providing personalized guidance, academic resources and opportunities to plan for and succeed in higher education.
We offer Talent Search programming in the Cleveland Heights – University Heights School District for 6th grade students at Roxboro and Baumgardner Middle Schools, and 6th – 12th grade students at Delisle Options Center.
Xplore
Xplore is College Now’s interactive after-school program designed to help students uncover their passions, explore future careers, and prepare for college success. Each session takes a deep dive into different meta-majors; broad fields of study that help students connect their interests to real college majors and career options. Through hands-on projects, meaningful discussions and exciting travel opportunities, students explore career possibilities in creative fields, STEM, business, finance and more. Xplore gives students the tools, experiences and support to discover their passion, and where it can take them.
Affording Higher Education
We believe that the financial cost of higher education should not be a barrier for students to achieve their career goals.
College Scholarships
We help students find and secure scholarships by guiding them to the best resources and assisting them in writing and reviewing scholarship essays. We also work with students in applying to the scholarships College Now manages, ensuring they have the best chance to receive financial support.
Financial Aid
Starting with learning financial literacy, we assist students and their families in understanding and applying to financial aid, including the FAFSA. Once students are accepted to colleges, we help them compare award letters to understand and evaluate their offered financial aid packages.