Get Started
Learn More

Resume Building for 10th Graders: Starting Early | CityPrep Optimization

Most students don’t think about their resume until senior year, but starting in 10th grade gives them the time to build something genuinely impressive. At CityPrep, we help students become the architects of their own story. What Goes on a 10th Grade Resume? Academic achievements, extracurriculars, and community service are key. For more on building […]

Managing Test Anxiety: Pre-Game Rituals for Success | CityPrep Optimization

Test anxiety is not the same as being underprepared. At CityPrep, we help students develop the pre-game rituals that transform test day from a threat into a performance opportunity. The Pre-Game Ritual Stop studying by 9 PM and do a brief “brain dump.” For more on academic success, see our guide on note-taking systems. You […]

Resilience vs. Perfectionism: Breaking the Burnout Cycle | CityPrep Optimization

Academic perfectionism is one of the most misidentified challenges in school counseling. At CityPrep, we help students break the burnout cycle by decoupling self-worth from achievement. Healthy Striving vs. Perfectionism Healthy striving is internally motivated, while perfectionism is externally driven. For more on supporting student wellbeing, see our guide on managing test anxiety. You can […]

Self-Regulation Stations: Setting Up a Calm Corner | CityPrep Optimization

Adolescents need self-regulation support just as much as younger children. At CityPrep, we help you design self-regulation stations that respect their developmental stage and provide genuine decompression. Design Principles for a Calm Corner Location, visual environment, and seating are critical. For more on creating a supportive office space, see our guide on office decor on […]

Mindfulness in 5 Minutes: Practical Classroom Starters | CityPrep Optimization

Mindfulness is simply the practice of paying deliberate attention to the present moment. At CityPrep, we help educators integrate brief, consistent mindfulness practices into their classroom culture. The Research Case Brief mindfulness practices produce significant improvements in focus and emotional regulation. For more on supporting student wellbeing, see our guide on setting up a calm […]

Newsletter Design: From Clunky PDFs to Editorial Layouts | CityPrep Optimization

Design is communication. At CityPrep, we believe a professional newsletter signals to families that your counseling program is worth their attention. Core Design Principles Hierarchy, white space, and consistent typography are key. For more on professional branding, see our guide on LinkedIn for high schoolers. You can find professional templates on Canva. This is a […]

Note-Taking Systems: Cornell, Mapping, and Outlining | CityPrep Optimization

Note-taking is a universally required but rarely taught skill. At CityPrep, we help students find the systematic approach that works for their specific learning style. The Cornell Method The Cornell method is excellent for auditory learners and sequential content. For more on supporting disorganized students, see our guide on executive functioning. You can find Cornell […]

Office Decor: High-End Aesthetics on a School Budget | CityPrep Optimization

The counseling office budget is often zero, but a beautiful, intentional space doesn’t require a large budget. At CityPrep, we believe a professional environment is a clinical tool that creates calm for your students. High-Impact, Low-Cost Upgrades Paint, plants, and lighting can transform a space. For more on creating a supportive environment, see our guide […]

Networking Outside Your Building: Professional Organizations | CityPrep Optimization

The school counselor who never leaves their building is a counselor who is slowly becoming obsolete. At CityPrep, we believe professional networking is the deliberate cultivation of relationships that make you a better advocate for your students. Why Professional Organizations Matter Organizations like the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) provide the infrastructure for our field. […]