Guidance Update: University Applications

Last week parents had the opportunity to attend an information session on campus which provided an overview of the university guidance process. The session covered updates on both Canadian and international post-secondary options and shared insights into the paths recent LCS graduates have taken. By learning about current trends and the experiences of former students, families gain a clearer understanding of the opportunities and steps ahead for their teen—whether they are in Grade 9, Grade 12, or anywhere in between. View the University Application Process presentation.

 

Grade 12 students are well into their post-secondary application process. Their current interim grades, along with any final Grade 11 results were submitted to the Ontario University Application Centre (OUAC) this week. Updates will be sent in early February, late April, and again in June. Offers of admission are already starting to arrive and will continue into May, based on the specific programs and schools each student has applied for.

 

Grade 11 students are adapting to the increased rigour of senior-level courses. Last month they visited the Trent University campus for a glimpse of post-secondary life. In early February, they will begin identifying areas of personal curiosity and academic interest that will help guide their course selections and inform their early post-secondary discussions with their guidance counsellor. They can explore post-secondary options by speaking with admissions reps at our fairs. At this stage, it’s also important for students to continue building and updating their resumes through thoughtful co-curricular and service learning participation.

 

Grade 10 students are focusing on strengthening their academic skills, managing homework demands, and pursuing meaningful co-curricular activities. In their Careers class, they are exploring their personality strengths and how these align with potential career paths. Their final Careers portfolio will serve as a useful tool for future conversations with their guidance counsellor about post-secondary options. These conversations will begin in February. 

 

Grade 9 students are adjusting to the transition into high school. They are building their academic habits, learning how to manage their time effectively, establishing social connections, and exploring their interests through co-curricular activities. These foundational experiences will lay the groundwork for their future university exploration. Grade 9 students will be meeting with their guidance counsellors again during class in December and will start to build a relationship together as they begin to look ahead to areas of interest and possible pathways. 

 

We continue to host university fairs, welcoming an increasing number of Canadian and international university liaison representatives onto campus. Students are making the most of these information-gathering opportunities, which are posted regularly in both the University Guidance and the University Guidance for Parents groups on Edsby. This week, we hosted our fifth and final post-secondary fair welcoming 20 institutions from across Canada and Spain. Students at all grade levels are encouraged to attend these fairs.

 

Our guidance counsellors are always available to discuss post-secondary aspirations and can be contacted through your child’s Edsby portal (listed under ‘Guidance’). As parents, you play an important role in this process by staying engaged via Edsby groups, encouraging your teen to explore their interests, consider enrichment opportunities, and helping them set realistic goals. By fostering open communication with the guidance team, you’ll ensure that your child has the support they need throughout their journey of self-discovery.  

 

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