Program
Philosophy
Collegiate's college counseling program is
about more than getting
into college. Our program is an articulated sequence designed
to help students develop the ability to make informed decisions
about their futures.
In a developmentally appropriate manner at
each grade level, beginning in grade nine, the Collegiate
college counseling program assists students as they make a
profound transition into adulthood. Through the four-year
journey, Collegiate students encounter an atmosphere in which
they find their voice through introspection and gain the independence
required to articulate the type of college environment needed
for the next phase of their formal education.
While parents and counselors walk with a
student on this journey, Collegiate's college counseling program
acknowledges that it is the student who must take ownership
of the application process. Ultimately, the student decides
where to apply, what to reveal in essays, whom to approach
for recommendations, and when to apply. But, by building a
relationship over the four years of Upper School, the Director
of College Counseling is able to guide, counsel, probe, recommend,
refer, suggest, and inform each student as needed.
 The
college counseling process at Collegiate hinges upon the individual
relationship formed between the counselor and the student.
As there is no single path through the curriculum of the Upper
School, there is no single path through the college counseling
program at Collegiate. Each student defies generalization.
Each student has a unique story to tell and different needs
to fulfill through the college search. Each student engages
the process at a slightly different point and moves through
the process at a slightly different pace.
As a result, the Director of College Counseling
provides a coherent program designed for each grade level
and spends the majority of his time guiding students along
their personal journeys. Students and parents are encouraged
to meet with the college counselor and have unfettered access
to the counselor throughout the Upper School experience.
When students are equipped with the tools
they need to undergo an honest appraisal of themselves, when
thoughtful introspection leads to thorough research, and when
careful attention is given to the minute details of the application
process, Collegiate students conclude their Upper School experience
prepared, excited, and confident to matriculate to the college
that best fits their articulated needs.
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