"My job is all about helping students understand their worth and preparing them for life after high school," Schumacher-Smith says. "It’s not just about getting into college but finding the best path for each student—whether that’s a four-year university, community college, or another route altogether."
From the first day students step into high school, counselors at Grand River Prep are available to offer guidance and answer questions that can feel overwhelming. "A lot of students come to me worried, saying, 'I don’t know what I want to do after graduation.' And I always tell them, 'That’s completely okay! There's still plenty of time to figure things out, and we're here to help you along the way,'" she shares.
One of the big things Schumacher-Smith focuses on is making sure students explore all their options. For those unsure about their next step, she often suggests trying a community college like Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC). "With the new free tuition initiative in Michigan, I always tell students, 'Take advantage of this opportunity. Fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and start your education without the stress of debt. You can always transfer to a university later if that’s what you decide,'" she explains.
Schumacher-Smith also offers hands-on help with the college application process, which can feel like a lot to manage. Whether it’s walking through the FAFSA or hosting financial aid nights, it’s important to make sure families have the support they need. "FAFSA can be tricky, especially because every student's situation is unique," she says. "That’s why I prefer meeting one-on-one with students and parents to guide them through it."
Beyond the forms and applications, Schumacher-Smith encourages students to make their college essays stand out. "A lot of students don’t make their essays personal enough," she says. "Colleges want to know who you are beyond your grades and test scores, and your story can really set you apart."
And because the college process can be stressful, Schumacher-Smith also teaches students how to stay organized and manage any anxiety that comes up. "We talk a lot about coping skills and how to break big tasks into smaller, manageable steps," she adds. "I want students to feel in control and not overwhelmed."
At the end of the day, Schumacher-Smith says it’s important for students to reach out to their school counselors early and often. "We’re here to help them find their way," she says, "and make sure they’re ready for whatever comes next."
Great job helping students prepare for the future!
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About Grand River Prep
Grand River Preparatory High School is a tuition-free, public charter school in Kentwood, Michigan, serving students in ninth through twelfth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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