GM Students are Up to 12.7x More Likely to be Accepted!
High School Consultations
At Growing Minds, we provide personalized high school counseling from grades 8th through 12th, guiding students and families through every step of the college admissions journey with structured planning, one-on-one support, and strategies that turn uncertainty into clarity and goals into achievement.
Comparison of National Acceptance Rates vs. GM 2024-2025 Student Rates
*Out of state admission rates
High School Consultations
At Growing Minds, we partner with students and families throughout high school to bring clarity, confidence, and direction to the college planning process. Our approach is personal, strategic, and designed to grow alongside each student, helping them make informed choices and move forward with purpose.
Key Highlights
- Personalized guidance from 8th–12th grade, tailored to each student’s goals and interests
- One-on-one planning covering academics, activities, summers, testing, and leadership growth
- Thoughtful college exploration focused on fit, values, and aspirations, not just numbers
- Ongoing timeline management and check-ins to reduce stress and keep plans on track
- Clear, supportive strategies that turn big questions into a well-defined path forward
Multiple Pathways, One Purpose
As students grow and goals evolve, there may be more than one pathway to the right college experience. At Growing Minds, we help students and families understand how thoughtful academic planning and intentional choices can support different routes toward the same long-term purpose.
By looking ahead and keeping options open, we ensure students are prepared to navigate opportunities as they arise, including transferring when it aligns with a student’s academic direction, personal growth, and overall goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grades do you work with for high school counseling?
We work with students starting in 8th grade through 12th grade, helping them prepare for a smooth transition into high school and plan each year with purpose and clarity.
How is your approach different from a typical college counselor at school?
Our approach is highly personalized, strategic, and designed to evolve with each student over time. We meet with students consistently on a one-on-one basis, allowing us to provide ongoing guidance, adjust plans as needed, and stay closely aligned with their progress. Through this level of dedicated time and attention, we’re able to take a more in-depth and creative approach—developing a thoughtful plan that includes academic direction, extracurricular growth, testing strategy, and long-term fit, all tailored to each student’s individual goals and strengths.
When should we start the college planning process?
There’s no single “right” time to begin. Starting in 8th or 9th grade allows for a longer runway and more intentional planning, but we work very effectively with students who join us in 10th or 11th grade as well. No matter when families come to us, we meet students where they are and create a clear, focused plan moving forward.
Do you help with standardized tests like the SAT or ACT?
Yes. We help students determine how standardized testing fits into their overall college plan, including timing, preparation strategy, and score use. Test preparation is a core part of our approach, and students receive structured support through our on-staff instructors and digital platform to help them perform at their best.
What if my student’s goals change over time?
Flexibility is built into our approach. We regularly revisit plans and adjust timelines to reflect evolving interests, academic strengths, and aspirations.
Do you assist with extracurriculars, summer programs, and leadership development?
Absolutely. We help students identify and pursue opportunities that strengthen their profile and reflect their authentic interests and passions.
How do you help with building a college list?
We work with students and families to create a personalized college list that balances academic fit, campus community, and long-term goals. Our process helps students thrive in college while laying the foundation for future plans, including graduate school or career paths.
Do you assist with college applications and essays?
Yes. We provide comprehensive support through every step of the college application process. This includes strategic guidance on major selection, dedicated coaching for essays, personalized application management with a specialist, recommendation planning, and deadline oversight. Essentially, we provide everything a student needs to craft a thoughtful, authentic application and submit it with confidence.
