The hallways are getting louder, the lockers are getting emptier, and there’s that unmistakable buzz in the air. As a college counselor working in a high school, the end of the school year always feels like a whirlwind of bittersweet goodbyes, abundance of testing—but mostly, it’s a time for profound reflection. We’ve officially crossed the finish line of another academic year, and what a year it has been.

Celebrating Seniors’ Next Chapters

Nothing beats the pride of seeing seniors finalize their post-graduation plans. Whether they are heading to a four-year university, diving into a community college, joining the military, or starting their career journey right away, seeing them embrace their "what’s next" is why I do this job. It has been a privilege to witness the growth of the Class of 2026. These students haven't just managed the college application process or their classes at the end of their high school experience; they have used it as a catalyst for personal leadership. They are entering this next chapter as proven contributors ready to impact your campus communities.

The Power of the "Pause"

Let’s be honest: college admissions is a high-energy field driven by a commitment to serving all students. To be the best support system for our students, we have to take care of ourselves, too. Summer break isn't just about "time off"; it’s about reenergizing. For me, this summer looks like:

● Unplugging: Swapping the inbox for a good book and some sunshine by a lake or pool.
● Reflecting: Thinking about what worked this year and how we can make next year even better.
● Resting: Prioritizing sleep and movement to clear the "mental clutter" of the year.

A Heartfelt Thank You

I want to extend my sincere gratitude to my counterparts on the college side of the desk for their invaluable partnership and collaboration. The Iowa ACAC community lifts me up on the long days and reminds me it is all worth it. Thank you for trusting me to be a partner on the high school side of the desk. We’ve navigated serving students together, and I’m walking into this summer with a full heart and a deep sense of gratitude for the work we all do each and every day. Make sure to take a break this summer to reflect and recharge for another admissions cycle coming our way! I can’t wait to see the energy students bring back to these halls in the fall.

What’s one goal—personal or professional—you’re looking forward to tackling during the summer break?