Mission

We believe that each student’s college search is individual and important. Many resources of the school will be employed in helping students investigate options, and successfully navigate the application process. The ultimate goal in this area, though, is to empower each student to own his or her search. While the college choice and ultimate destination of each student is important, it is our belief that the act of making that choice is equally vital.

When students start at Eastside Prep, they are encouraged to develop the skills of curiosity and critical thinking. Most of all, they learn to embrace their education. College Counseling at Eastside Prep is merely an extension of that same philosophy. Our Upper School students are encouraged to research, visit, and select the schools to which they will make application based on genuine interest and personal “fit.” Brand names are potentially interesting – but they are not compelling unless they offer programs and opportunities that support the learning objectives of the student.

Process

Informally, College Counseling begins when each student starts the ninth grade. Of course, curriculum and teaching is geared toward making every student proficient in the academic skills that will ensure success at any institution of higher learning. College Counseling, though, is as much about self-discovery as it is about researching college opportunities. Faculty advisors work with each student (currently in a ratio of six students per faculty member). These advisors help students enroll in appropriate courses, develop personal interests and choose and pursue extracurricular activities.

In the second half of sophomore year, each student formally begins the college counseling process. Frequent group meetings are held to keep students aware of their responsibilities in the search for a college. Each sophomore also begins meeting one-on-one with our college counselor. These meetings continue through to the natural finish of the process in senior year, and are limited in number and scope only by each student’s desire and interest.