So You’re Back… Or Almost
Depending on your school, you might already be back in meetings, dusting off your to-do list, or still squeezing in a few last days (or ideally, weeks) of summer. Either way, welcome back — sort of.
We all know the fall hits in big waves. And if you’re juggling college stuff alongside 1,000 other duties, I find it easier to break it into bite-sized lists. Here’s an idea for Week 1 (just the college counseling stuff).
Week 1 Priorities
1. Reach Out to Your Seniors
Even if it’s just a short email or message, get something out to the Class of 2026. Let them know how to schedule time with you, what you’ll be focusing on this fall, and remind them that you’re here for them.
There’s a generic email template in the free planner below if you need it. Edit it and make it your own.
2. Set a Meeting Plan
This isn’t the week for perfection. But it is the week to block some time on your calendar:
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- When will you start senior meetings?
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- When are you writing rec letters?
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- Are you hosting any meetings or events for students or families this month?
Even a rough outline helps you stay ahead of the chaos.
3. Don’t Do Everything
You don’t need to solve FAFSA yet. Or read final essays. Or finalize college lists. I’m sure you will get questions like that already and it is always good to be planning ahead and thinking big picture. There are always exceptions, but its generally okay to stay focused on the early must-do tasks and say “We’ll get to that soon.”
Free Resource: Week 1 Quick Planner
Inside the planner:
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- A short checklist for your first week back
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- A copy-paste senior welcome email
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- A simple space to jot down key dates and to-dos
→ [Download the Week 1 Quick Planner (Google Doc)
Final Thought
Keep it simple. Remember that your main job is to support the students. Communicate with your seniors. Block a little time for yourself. Put a pause on what can wait and prioritize what can’t.
And remember: most of your students have no idea what week things are “supposed” to happen. That’s what makes you their guide, their voice of reason, and their calm in the storm.
