Counseling and College Center

It’s officially here – the fourth quarter of the 2024-2025 school year! Spring is in the air and the sunshine often brings all of us outdoors to enjoy the beautiful weather. The fourth quarter is often packed full of extracurricular activities as well as academic demands and having spring break at the end of the month means we come back to campus with only one week before AP exams begin. We hope students and their families find ways to enjoy these next few months together while staying on top of school and commitments. Students should be on the lookout for the “Tutor Lab Tip of the Week” emails, which share lots of strategies and resources that will help Troubies study well and end the school year with confidence. As always, students should reach out to their counselor if they need help finding a tutor or support as they finish out the last quarter.

As we approach the end of the first semester and get ready for final exams, it’s important for Troubies to remember the value of balance. This time of year can feel overwhelming, with projects, assignments, test preparations and college applications all coming at once. However, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy balance between studies and well-being. Remember, finals are important, but mental and physical health are just as vital. Troubies should find time to relax and enjoy small moments of joy. They have made it this far, and with balance and focus, will finish strong. See below for some tips on managing the rest of the semester, and remember that the Counseling and College Center staff are here for support.

Tips to Help Troubies Manage the Coming Weeks:

• Stay Organized: Create a study schedule to break down your tasks. Prioritize based on deadlines and exam dates, and set realistic goals for each day.
• Take Breaks: While it might seem like you need to study non-stop, remember that your brain needs rest. Take short breaks every hour to recharge and stay focused.
• Stay Active: Physical activity is a great way to relieve stress. Whether it’s a walk, some stretching, or a quick workout, moving your body can help clear your mind and boost your energy.
• Sleep Well: Never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours to allow your brain to rest and retain information.
• Reach Out for Support: If you’re feeling stressed, don’t hesitate to talk to your Counselor.

Fall is in the air and the first quarter of the 2024-2025 school year is almost over. We are thankful that we were able to meet so many parents at our Parent Night Presentations in August and we also met with every student during our grade-level advisories. Counselors are currently meeting with freshmen in small groups, and meeting with sophomores, juniors, and seniors individually. And even though Troubie College Week is behind us, college representatives continue to visit SFHS during the month of October.

We hope everyone had a restful Easter break. These next seven weeks will go by quickly and it will be summer before we know it! A lot is happening in the last few months of school, so check the SFHS calendar often (and read your Counseling and College newsletters) so you don’t miss anything.

Spring semester is here, so quickly!  Seniors are lining up their college decisions and enjoying their last days of high school.  Here at the Counseling & College Center, our counselors are following up with our continuing students, and our college advisors have launched the college meetings with the Venelopes!  For any student needing academic support – check out the CSF Peer Tutor List that was just shared, and as always, stop in and see your Counselor!

Welcome to the 2023-24 school year!  The start of something new can be overwhelming, but rest assured every member of the St. Francis Counseling and College Center is here for you.  One way we’ll be accomplishing this is through our new late-start advisory sessions.