9th Grade College Counseling Experience

Building a Strong Foundation
9th grade marks the beginning of an exciting chapter—one that invites students to challenge themselves and explore new possibilities. This is a time to think about the future.
We encourage 9th grade students to develop strong academic habits and immerse themselves in meaningful extracurricular activities. Through engaging presentations and personalized guidance from the College Counseling Office, students and families discover how to pursue opportunities that spark curiosity, reflect their interests, and inspire them to step outside their comfort zone—preparing them for the Upper School journey ahead and laying the groundwork for a confident, successful college application process.
What Happens in 9th Grade
Forming Habits, Exploring Passions
9th grade invites students to look ahead with curiosity and purpose. At BWL, they are encouraged to prepare for the college process by strengthening academic routines, trying new activities, and pursuing what excites them most.
Families join the journey through interactive events like College Conversations…Unscripted and our Financial Aid Workshops, gaining insight and resources that make this first step of the college process both informative and empowering.
9th Grade College Counseling Events and Resources
- COLLEGE CONVERSATIONS...UNSCRIPTED
- FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS
- EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: EXPLORE, ENGAGE, EXPERIENCE
- BWL COLLEGE RESOURCE CENTER
COLLEGE CONVERSATIONS...UNSCRIPTED
FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: EXPLORE, ENGAGE, EXPERIENCE
BWL COLLEGE RESOURCE CENTER
Advice for 9th Grade Students
Find what you love, and do it. Maybe it’s an instrument. Maybe it’s research. Maybe it’s being a leader in your community. Whatever it is, spend time on it. Immerse yourself in it. Enjoy it.

A Parent's Perspective:
Families appreciate the early interaction and grade-specific guidance offered by the BWL College Counseling Office.

"Understanding the financial aid process early on gave our family such peace of mind. At the same time, the College Counseling Office encouraged my son to explore activities that truly excited him. He discovered things he loves, and has even stepped into leadership roles. It’s been fantastic for his growth, and I know these experiences will be a bonus when it’s time for his college applications. We are so glad to have the extra support. It helps alleviate the stress and makes the experience actually exciting!”
—9th Grade Parent
















