Heading Back to School with the Right Mindset

July 31, 2026

Transitioning from summer to the academic school year can be difficult; schedules change, responsibilities grow, and the pressure to build a resume for college becomes all-encompassing.

The window to strengthen the college application is smaller than many families realize. Once the school year begins, there is often little time to seek out meaningful opportunities that truly help students stand out. With that in mind, I want to share a few unique possibilities:

1. Lit(eracy) Up is a student-led initiative focused on getting books and reading out into the greater community. All students who participate will have a leadership role in coordinating 4 book-centered events over the course of the year. Check out my website page for more info: Lit(eracy) Up with College Access Counseling and sign up here: Lit(eracy) Up Sign Up Form if interested!

2. A fellowship opportunity where students can develop leadership skills and engage in real-world challenges. This type of experience demonstrates initiative and curiosity, two qualities that colleges value. Check out Spaceship Academy and apply here: Future Shapers Application.

3. Kid Museum of Bethesda is looking for enthusiastic students in grades 9-12 for their Fall 2026 Teen Volunteer Program. Read more about the programs and apply here: KID Museum Volunteer Application.

4. Interested in starting your own Passion Project, but need support to make it happen? The Passion Project program is a year-long, 1-on-1 program that helps students turn their interests into a real, documented project (the kind that stands out on college applications).

Students get 6 personalized live sessions, unlimited email/text support, a step-by-step action plan, and hands-on help crafting their story for resumes, activity lists, and interviews. By the end of the year, they'll have a launched project with real milestones, plus the confidence to talk about it in college applications.

This paid program starts in October. Reach out to the Passion Project Coordinator, Katherine Zmoda, to learn more or reserve a spot. Email: katherinezmoda@gmail.com.

Please share with your student! I don’t always have an email address, and they generally aren’t checking there yet… Feel free to reach out with any questions.

Best,

Tami