Dear NHS Class of 2010 Parents,

It is hard to believe our children have completed half of their Georgetown career—the time has gone by so fast! Junior year is always an exciting and busy time for NHS students as they plan for their futures. Many are thinking about graduate schools, post-college employment, or even leaving the Hilltop to study abroad. You may have many questions throughout the year regarding academics and student life; please remember that in addition to the knowledgeable team at NHS, the NHS Parents Council is here to help.

We thought we would poll this year's Senior parents to learn what issues came up during their student's Junior year and share with you some of those lessons learned. Below are the three most common topics on which parents offered advice.

Housing: Some Juniors move off campus this year, which is a great experience, but it can make parents nervous, too. While the Georgetown area is relatively safe, it is located in a city and, therefore, we cannot stress enough that we need to remind our sons and daughters to lock their doors, walk in groups, and make sure outdoor lighting works. Also, the University's Off-Campus Housing Resource Services can assist your son or daughter in off-campus living concerns including safety issues. They can be reached at (202) 687-7764 or by visiting Georgetown University's Off-Campus Housing web site.

Standardized Tests: It is highly recommended that students take the GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or MCAT exam even if they have no current plans for graduate, law, or medical school. It is much easier to prepare for and take these standardized tests during college than after graduation. Each student's after-graduation plans will vary. Taking the exams will keep doors open since the scores are valid for either three or five years. Discuss this opportunity with your son or daughter to determine if this is a suitable course of action. Review courses for each of the aforementioned tests are offered on or near campus throughout the academic year.

Career Planning: While still two years from graduation, the Georgetown University Career Education Center suggest students start researching their top career choices and search for opportunities to gain career-related experience; update their resume and prepare for interviews; and use University resources to begin networking with industry professionals. To learn more and view the career planning checklist for Juniors, contact the Career Education Center’s NHS liaison, Beverly Raimondo at (202) 687-7121, br47@georgetown.edu or visit the Georgetown University Career Education Center.

We are looking forward to another exciting academic year. Throughout the year you will continue to receive information about NHS news, important dates, and events. Please do not hesitate to contact anyone on the Parents Council if you have questions or are interested in becoming more involved with the leadership of NHS. We can be reached at NHSParents@georgetown.edu.

Hoya Saxa,