8th Grade College Counseling Experience
A Time to Imagine What Lies Ahead
At BWL, the college journey begins long before junior year.
In 8th grade, students and families engage in casual conversations about the college landscape, and begin to envision the future and take steps that will shape their high school experience and set them up for success in the college process.
What Happens in 8th Grade
Start Early, Soar HigherWhile Middle School might seem a bit early to begin thinking about college, it’s the perfect time for students and their families to start envisioning their future and taking meaningful steps.
Making intentional choices like selecting the right-fit high school courses, attending summer programs, and exploring extracurricular passions will help define their high school years and build a strong foundation for the future.
Our College Counseling Office invites families to join lively, casual conversations about the college landscape and BWL’s unique approach to the college experience, sparking curiosity, uncovering possibilities, and helping families feel confident and inspired as they look ahead.
Advice for 8th Grade Students and Parents
- Develop strong study habits.
- Focus on core subjects.
- Get involved in extracurricular activities.
- Try something new!
- Pursue summer activities.
- Build relationships with teachers and mentors.
- Practice independence and responsibility.
- Attend College Conversations...Unscripted.
- Discuss high school course selection thoughtfully.
- Build healthy routines.
Families appreciate our
early guidance
“Having access to the College Counseling Office when my daughter was just an 8th grader gave us valuable insight into the process. I felt fully prepared, and we were able to make her freshman course selections with confidence and ease—because we knew what to expect and already had a clear plan.”
—8th Grade Parent
For 8th Grade Parents:
College Conversations…Unscripted
8th grade parents are first introduced to the BWL college process through our signature foundational event.
College Conversations…Unscripted is an informal, interactive get-together—like a virtual fireside chat. There’s no agenda, no slides—just robust conversations and honest answers to your questions.
Held annually for 8th grade parents, College Conversations…Unscripted is designed to provide clarity, build understanding, and offer families a relaxed space to learn more about the evolving college landscape and BWL’s student-centered approach to navigating this exciting journey.
