MARET

APPLICATIONS GETTING STARTED CHOICES MAKING AID FINANCIAL

HANDBOOK COLLEGE COLLEGE    COMPLETING  TESTING   RESOURCES MORE AND ... 3 5 2 4 4 4 9 9 8 8 11 11 21 21 13 26 16 16 15 25 12 14 24 28 18 Inside Front Cover Inside Front Cover ...... College Counseling Contacts...... College Counseling Where to Begin...... the College Search...... Important Things to Think about in ...... How Colleges Make Their Decisions Online Programs...... and Prep Courses, Tutors, ...... Advice and Tips Testing College Application Options...... Contents of a Completed Application ...... Admission Essays and Personal Statements Understanding the Academic Record vs. ACT...... SAT College Interviews...... Major Forms of Financial Aid...... Standardized Testing Calendar...... in the College Process Our Values College Acceptances...... References and Resources Financial Aid

Independent Counselors...... The College Search...... The College Application...... a Gap Year Taking A Note to Parents and Guardians...... A Note to Parents Visiting Colleges...... Visiting Academic Record Athletics and Recruitment...... TABLE OF CONTENTS OF TABLE he Maret College Counseling Office is excited to embark upon the college search Office is excited to embark he Maret College Counseling secondary opportunities. before anything else. This process is a chance for students to explore, engage, and learn. before anything else. This process is both students and parents/guardians to keep an open mind—do not dismiss a college both students and parents/guardians professionals that is committed to maintaining high ethical standards among those professionals that is committed to maintaining [email protected] parents/guardians, and students is of the utmost importance. We hope for open, honest the utmost importance. We parents/guardians, and students is of [email protected] Sincerely, dialogue throughout the process. In maintaining this communication, we encourage dialogue throughout the process. In maintaining college. As members, we are bound to counsel and represent our students honestly college. As members, we are bound to involved in the college search and admissions process, as well as in the transition to involved in the college search and admissions important time for you. For students, this is a period of self-discovery, reflection, you. For students, this is a period of important time for are eager to partner with our students and their families their needs and interests. We open communication between counselors, this process is about the student. Thus, and accurately. We take our roles seriously and always put our students’ best interests take our roles seriously and We and accurately. an informed consumer of information about colleges, universities, and other post- an informed consumer of information and application process with you and your family. We recognize that this is an recognize that We with you and your family. and application process be. For families, this is a who they are and who they want to and thinking about important information, setting. This handbook contains advice, adventures in a new college search, application, to complete as you go through the and activities for you are sections on just about every Examine it carefully, as there and admissions processes. aspect of this journey. it is important for experience; however, and offer advice based on our collective or idea simply because you have not heard of it. Rather, consider all options and be heard of it. Rather, or idea simply because you have not [email protected] major transition, as the student leaves home, perhaps for the first time, to pursue new the student leaves home, perhaps for major transition, as Remember, are in control of this process. Remember, they that, ultimately, students to acknowledge (NACAC), a member-directed organization of college counseling and admissions (NACAC), a member-directed 2019–2020 MARET COLLEGE COUNSELING OFFICE COUNSELING COLLEGE MARET 2019–2020 Maret is a member of the National Association of College Admissions Counseling Maret is a member of the National Association Mr. Alexander (Allie) Levey, Director of College Counseling Mr. Associate Director of College Counseling Ms. Dorie Ravick, Assistant College Counseling Administrative Ms. Krsna Jackson, Through honest self-reflection, students are able to identify institutions that will meet Through honest self-reflection, students We are honored to be a part of the journey. We The Maret College Counseling Office T

OUR VALUES IN THE COLLEGE PROCESS AND GUARDIANS TO PARENTS CALENDAR

JUNIOR YEAR SENIOR YEAR

BEGIN COLLEGE SEARCH PROCESS: APPLY, DECIDE, AND QUESTION, EXPLORE, INVESTIGATE. FINISH HIGH SCHOOL WITH PRIDE IN YOURSELF. Each family’s dynamic is different, and how you negotiate this process is, in part, OCTOBER AUGUST based on the relationships you have developed with your child. This is a process that • Register for the April or • Take the PSAT/NMSQT. June ACT and/or the May • Access and rollover your prepares students for independence, but it can be challenging for everyone involved. It is • Attend college fairs and local or June SAT Reasoning Test, Common Application, if good that parents/guardians and students work together, but be aware that what students information sessions. if appropriate. appropriate. (Available want changes, and often. A family conversation clarifying roles and expectations in the • Attend Junior Students and MARCH August 1) Families College Night at process is a good starting point. • Begin developing your “long SEPTEMBER Maret. list” of college choices and • Review your transcript with Knowing when to help and when to back off can be difficult for some parents and NOVEMBER contacting them to request your college counselor to guardians, but this is only natural, as we know they only want the best for their students. • Keep your grades up. Make information. ensure it is accurate. adjustments if your progress • If possible, visit colleges • Meet with your college Middlebury College created a list of 10 suggestions for parents and guardians, some of reports are not up to par. during spring break. counselor to review your list which note symptoms of over-involvement: of colleges. DECEMBER APRIL • If applying for Financial • Receive results of PSAT/ • Select senior year courses 1. Remember that this process is not about you. Children need to make their own and be sure to continue to Aid, check to see if any NMSQT. of your schools require observations and decisions. • Review your scores and challenge yourself. • Attend area college fairs to the College Scholarship consult with college Service Profile and complete 2. Support and encouragement are more appropriate than pressure and unsolicited counselors or your advisor get more information on advice. possibilities. it before the respective to determine how you might deadlines; request an FSA • Write thank- improve. This is excellent 3. Do not use the words “we” or “our” when referring to your child’s application MAY ID in order to complete the you notes to preparation for the SAT or • Take appropriate Advanced process. Free Application for Federal teachers, ACT. Placement exams. Ask your Student Aid (FAFSA). coaches, etc., • Begin to think about 4. Help them prepare, but let them perform. For example, during a college visit, step counselors and teachers • Meet with college who wrote colleges that you’d like to about this. back and let your child drive the experience. This is good practice for the next phase representatives that visit recommendations for you. explore. • Decide which teachers Maret. DECEMBER of his or her life. • Register for February or to ask to write your • Attend regional college • Submit all remaining April ACT if appropriate recommendation letters. fairs, receptions, and college 5. Encourage your child to make his or her own college appointments, phone calls, applications for initial and be sure to have the • Submit the Teacher nights, etc. and emails. When a family arrives at an admissions office, it is important that the scores sent to Maret. Recommendation Request review to the College student approach the front desk, not the adults. Having control over the details gives • Begin researching summer Form to the teachers OCTOBER Counseling Office. academic experiences, • Narrow your College children a sense of ownership—they will learn to appreciate all the steps it takes to you have asked to write JANUARY, FEBRUARY, volunteer work, Application List and update recommendation letters for MARCH, APRIL make big things happen if they do them. employment, etc. your list on Naviance you in person. • Continue scholarship search • If you are thinking about 6. Allow your child to ask the questions. Children have their own set of issues that are JANUARY and complete applications. JUNE applying Early Decision/ • Plan campus visits for important to them. • Attend College Counseling • Continue researching Early Action, schedule an colleges you haven’t seen or Evening with Deans & colleges and requesting appointment with your 7. Prepare your child for disappointment. For many students, this is the first time they would like to see again. Directors at Maret (families). information. college counselor. • Relax and wait for decisions. could face bad news. Remind them that they will be happy at many schools and that • Complete the Rising Senior • Plan summer and/or fall • Narrow your College Personal Inventory. admissions decisions do not reflect their worth as people or your worth as parents. college visits. Application List to 6–10 BEFORE MAY 1 • Encourage your parents schools and update your list • Decide on the one college to complete their Parent JULY/AUGUST 8. Never complete any portion of the college application for your child. Many on Naviance that you will attend. Send Questionnaire. • Continue refining college colleges view this as a violation of their honor policy. • Begin preparing backup in your tuition deposit. • Review SAT and ACT test list. applications. (ED/EA Inform the other colleges dates, consider which tests • Keep up with required and 9. Do not let stereotypes or outdated information applicants) that accepted you that you you have steer your child away from schools in to take when, and register. recommended summer reading. • Complete the FAFSA have selected another college. which s/he might otherwise have an interest. FEBRUARY • Begin working on a draft of NOVEMBER Please do not double-deposit. ASKING YOUR • Schedule an individual Times have changed and so have colleges—your a college essay or personal • Continue completing college conference. MAY perspective on a particular school may not be statement. applications. • Attend the Junior Families • Take Advanced Placement STUDENT how • Register with NCAA • Submit all completed accurate. Capital Case Studies Exams. Eligibility Center, if applications to your college program. JUNE 10. Never, ever during a college visit buy a appropriate. counselor at least two weeks they want you • Register for the March SAT, • Congratulations! Shop for • Begin scholarship search. before the due date for sweatshirt or t-shirt from the bookstore in if appropriate. college, read for pleasure, review. YOUR size—it is a dead giveaway! to be involved enjoy your summer, and get • Make sure first quarter grades ready for a great experience! are strong. If not, work to get is a good semester grades up. You will be missed! 2 starting point. 3 THE COLLEGE SEARCH • Is the student body racially, culturally, politically, • Can I do research with faculty members or on my own socially, and economically diverse? If so, how at this college? How are such projects funded? important is this to me? If the student body is not diverse, why? How will diversity play a role in my • Who is visiting the campus to speak, perform, exhibit, intellectual, social, and personal growth? How open or recruit? are conversations about race and equity? About gender and sexuality? Do students from seemingly different • What do students on this campus consider fun? backgrounds interact with one another organically, or WHERE TO do students appear to stick with those who seem like • How extensive are career services at this school? Do themselves? most graduates get jobs shortly after graduation? How BEGIN many students go on to graduate or attend professional • How diverse is the faculty? Are there women schools after graduation? What industries and TO BEGIN THE COLLEGE • Faculty involvement, research opportunities, class size, and individuals of color in important faculty and professions do graduates seem attracted to? SEARCH PROCESS, CONSIDER diversity of the student population, and subjective administrative positions? If not, what does this say THE FOLLOWING: factors like campus architecture and aesthetics about the academic culture of the institution? Are • Do many students receive financial aid at this school? If • Why are you going to college? affinity groups and organizations active on the campus? not, is it apparent? You might also consider whether a school is coeducational • What do you expect from a or has a religious affiliation, its cost and the availability • How large are the majority of classes at this school? • Are fraternities and sororities popular on campus? Will college community? of financial aid, and whether the school caters more to Are most under 25? Over 100? What sort of classroom my social life be dependent on Greek life? Are the undergraduate or graduate students. Do your best to environment would be ideal for me as a learner? What fraternities and/or sororities focused more on social • What are your areas of academic separate facts—that is, what you know to be true about kind of academic support can I expect if I encounter activities or engaged in service? Is the Greek system interest? the colleges you are exploring—from hearsay, rankings, challenges? residential? and promotional materials. At the end of the day, YOU • What atmosphere will be best for are going to be attending the college you choose, so make • Is the curriculum structured so that I will be required • What percentage of students study abroad? Is doing so the way you learn? Do you thrive sure you have done your homework about the schools to to take classes from a broad range of disciplines? If so, easy for all majors? on competition, or are you more which you are applying and that you are confident you what are the requirements and do I like them? comfortable learning in a more would be happy at any of them. • How’s the food? Is housing guaranteed? Comfortable? collaborative atmosphere? • If the curriculum is open, with little or no core requirements, who is there to advise me and help me • Are you really going to college because your parents think hard about the academic choices I am making? expect it or because you cannot conceive of an IMPORTANT THINGS TO HOW COLLEGES MAKE alternative? • Can I be undecided about what I want to study when THINK ABOUT IN THE I apply? THEIR DECISIONS Thinking about these questions will help you select a school that will best fit your needs. Colleges will ask COLLEGE SEARCH • What percentage of students graduate in four years? No one can predict with 100% certainty what admissions similar questions in essays on your applications or during decision they will receive from each college or university; admissions interviews. Each student is unique, and thus each student’s college • Are classes taught primarily by full-time faculty therefore, the Maret college counseling team works closely search should be unique. There is not a one-size-fits-all members, adjunct faculty, or graduate students? with each student to ensure that they build a college SECOND, THINK ABOUT THE TYPE OF COLLEGE YOU approach. Each student has different interests, talents, list that is 1) manageable, and 2) represents a range of WANT TO ATTEND. goals, and dreams they hope to pursue and cultivate. • How engaged do professors appear to be in their admissibility. Today, colleges often receive applications There are over 2,000 accredited colleges in the United Below are some questions to help you think about each students’ lives outside the classroom? from many, many more academically qualified candidates States, each different. Some Maret students even look college you may be considering beyond reputation and than they can accept. abroad. You should consider the following factors: prestige. Before you begin to question colleges, however, it is important to question yourself. Why are you going Statistically, in a recent class nationwide, there were • Size: small (2,500 or under), medium (2,500 to 8,000), to college? How do you learn best? Who are you now, roughly 150,000 students in the top 10% of their high or large (over 8,000) and who do you hope to be as a result of your college school classes, with roughly 18,000 valedictorians. experience? REMEMBER: There Together, the fifty most selective colleges in the country • Location: urban, a suburb near a city, a college town, or have room for fewer than 55,000 students in any given a rural area Remember: it is what you do in your four years of college are plenty of colleges year. At several of the most popular colleges, applications and how you grow there that truly matter most. outnumbered places in the freshman class by over 13-to-1. • Area of the country: the Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, out there. Do not believe Therefore, by practical necessity, students must think of or West Coast • What types of students are happiest at this college? Are that only one college or only a not only which school is their top choice, but also which they collaborative? Competitive? Politically active? others of several colleges and universities they would be • Academic programs: liberal arts and sciences, Athletic? Outdoorsy? From far away or closer to the handful of colleges exists where happy to attend. Again, DO NOT BELIEVE that only engineering, architecture, nursing, business and school? you will be happy and thrive. one college exists where you will be happy and thrive. accounting, fine or performing arts, and technical arts Many colleges will give you the Many colleges will give you the opportunities you want • Who is most successful academically at this college? and need to succeed in life. opportunities you want and 4 need to succeed, so explore! 5 THE COLLEGE SEARCH

There are many factors that colleges consider when application. Several of the most selective colleges and SCHOOL/COUNSELOR RECOMMENDATION selecting a freshman class. Academically, they want universities also require students to submit scores from This letter of recommendation addresses your intellectual to make certain that, based on past achievement and two SAT Subject Tests. These tests are typically taken and personal character, as well as your activities at and demonstrated potential, an applicant will be able to in the latter half of the junior year and in the senior year. contributions to Maret and other communities. It also achieve academic success at their school. They are also Colleges consider the highest scores a student has achieved provides any additional information we feel is important looking for individuals who will be engaged in the when considering their application for admission. Test to share about you as an individual. To prepare, your college’s campus community outside the classroom. dates and registration deadlines are always available online counselor reviews all of the teacher and advisor comments through each testing organization’s website or in the from your time in the Upper School; they also share their Most colleges also understand that students learn a lot College Counseling Office. A more detailed explanation of own observations of you, as well as those of coaches, from each other and each other’s life experiences, and each test is available further in this handbook. In addition, teachers, and, sometimes, fellow students or your parents. thus seek to enroll students from a wide array of ethnic, some students who have taken Advanced Placement These recommendations are confidential, but they are cultural, racial, geographic, and economic backgrounds. Exams (APs) may submit their scores for consideration in reviewed by Head of School Marjo Talbott and all of While colleges may differ considerably in who they are the admissions process, although no college or university the college counselors before being submitted. We find looking for in any given year, we are certain that the requires them as part of their admissions process. Further, that providing and receiving constructive feedback about following list of factors will help you understand what is many schools are becoming test-optional or test-flexible. each of our letters is helpful to us as recommendation most critical in the eyes of an admissions officer. You should review the test requirements for every school writers and, more important, to our students. The School/ on your list and consult with your counselor about which Counselor Recommendation, in a sense, codifies many of SPECIAL STATUS ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT tests to sit for and which scores to submit. Finally, several the different parts of your application, and so we work Students who are connected to particular priorities of a OVER THE FOUR YEARS OF HIGH SCHOOL schools consider self-reported scores to be official, so extremely hard to craft letters for each student that are college may be given extra consideration in the admissions This is, without a doubt, the most important part of any please consult each school’s website for more information. original (like you!), detailed, and honest. To assist us in process. For example, sons and daughters of alumni, student’s application for admission. It includes your writing this letter, we ask all juniors to complete a personal recruited athletes, talented artists, actors, scientists, grades/grade point average, rigor/strength of academic TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS inventory. The personal inventory will be available in musicians, students who are the first generation of their program, breadth of curriculum, and academic standing Most colleges require at least one letter of spring of your junior year. family to go to college, or members of ethnic groups at Maret relative to your peers. Colleges are interested to recommendation from a teacher who has taught you under-represented on campus may be given additional see that students have challenged themselves by taking a in a core academic course (mathematics, social studies, ESSAYS YOU WRITE FOR consideration by a particular school, depending on its full range of academic courses each year of high school. English, lab science, or world languages). Many schools YOUR ADMISSIONS APPLICATION priorities in any given year. Although improved grades during the first half of the now require two teacher recommendations, but regardless The main essay of your application is the most personal senior year are helpful, they do not erase a poor record of the number required, it is important for students to part of your application, as it provides you an opportunity This status does not make up for a mediocre academic for the first three years. Colleges also consider a student’s speak with their college counselor about whom they are to share something that is important to you and explain record, but it can help a student stand out a bit more. standing relative to their Maret peers. While Maret does considering asking to write on their behalf. Colleges rely why it is important to you. Admissions officers will use it not officially rank students, admissions officers know on your classroom teachers for frank, honest assessments to determine not only how well you write, but also how PERSONAL INTERVIEWS Maret well and are able to distinguish students from one of who you are as a student in their discipline. They are you think. Before you write your essay, it is important to The importance of an interview varies considerably from another, academically speaking, based on past experience. looking for evidence of intellectual curiosity, creativity, consider what matters to you as a person. Try to discuss school to school. However, we strongly recommend an The fact that you attend Maret lets colleges know you are engagement, commitment, and respect. So it is up to you what is less evident from other parts of your application interview whenever possible. Please see the section on well-prepared, but it does not guarantee you a place at the to decide who can best present your strengths as a student. in your essay so that admissions officers see a new side interviews for more details. college of your choice. Some schools may require letters of recommendation of you. What you write here can help them understand from teachers of specific disciplines (for example, many who you are as a person, what you value, and who you DEMONSTRATED INTEREST SCORES FROM STANDARDIZED TESTING engineering schools/programs require a letter from an might be on their campus as a student, roommate, and As more and more students apply to more and more Students must submit scores from either the SAT or ACT advanced mathematics teacher and a lab science teacher), community member. The essay is also a place to share colleges, it has become more difficult for schools to to most American colleges and universities as part of their and prefer that letters come from teachers who have a little bit about your personality—if you are a funny predict their yield (that is, the percentage of accepted taught you in tenth through twelfth grades. Many schools person, it is okay to write with a humorous tone; if you students who will matriculate). Thus, in an effort to more accept supplemental letters of recommendation from are not funny, this isn’t the place to try to be. What is most accurately predict yield, some colleges and universities people who know you outside of school, but they will important about the essay is that it is authentically you. It consider an applicants’ interest in them when making not substitute for a required academic teacher letter of is great to have your college counselor, parents, English admissions decisions. One can demonstrate interest by WHEN CONSIDERING A recommendation from Maret. It is VERY IMPORTANT teacher, or even friends offer feedback and advice about meeting with college representative when they visit Maret to remember that many teachers at Maret are writing for your essay, but make sure that your final draft reads like or the DC area, visiting a school’s campus, interviewing, COLLEGE, be honest with multiple students, so giving your teachers ample time you. Particular schools may also require supplemental applying Early Decision or Early Action, responding to write on your behalf is not only appreciated, but also essays—these are also very important, so do not to neglect or reading through emails a school may send you, or yourself about your academic critical. In addition, keep in mind that your best teacher them. corresponding with an admissions officer. The “why achievements, work ethic, love of recommendation may come from a teacher of a class in us” essay is also an important way colleges determine which you did not necessarily achieve your highest grade: EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES your level of interest. The extent to which this interest learning, and willingness to push yourself, many times, who you are as a student in a class is just as The emphasis here is on your level of engagement and matters varies from school to school, but thoughtfully and and the likelihood that you may (or important (if not more important) than the grade you impact in the activities you choose, not simply the respectfully demonstrating your interest in a college can received. Most important, less is more. Submitting several quantity of your involvements or titles held. Genuine only help in the admissions process. may not) be competitive, academically letters that provide similar information about you will not contributions to an activity, team, or organization (in or speaking, in their applicant pool. enhance your application. out of school) matter to colleges, although they will not make up for a mediocre academic record.

6 7 3. ROLLING ADMISSIONS APPLICATION MUST provide your teachers with stamped envelopes, APPLICATION THE COLLEGE A rolling admissions application option is most commonly addressed to each college or university. found at larger, public colleges and universities, and some smaller colleges. Applications at rolling schools 5. Standardized Testing Results, sent by the Educational are considered in groups based on the dates they are Testing Service (ETS) or the ACT. It is your completed. In other words, once an application and all responsibility to request that these scores be sent by required credentials are received, a decision will be made the testing agency in order for a college to consider on the application, usually within 4–6 weeks. In general, them official. Maret DOES NOT SEND YOUR SAT, IT IS TO YOUR ADVANTAGE TO APPLY AS EARLY SAT II, OR ACT SCORES FOR YOU. Be sure to COLLEGE we insist you have other applications ready to go, just in AS YOU CAN TO THESE SCHOOLS because the later allow enough time for scores to reach the colleges by case you are not admitted early. It can also be difficult one applies, the fewer spots remain in the admitted class. the application deadline. Note that there are fees for APPLICATION psychologically to be turned down by your first-choice It is also advantageous to apply earlier to rolling schools sending your scores, which can add up depending upon school, especially early on in the process, since a negative because you are notified earlier, which may ease some of the number of schools to which you are sending them OPTIONS decision may not be immediately offset by positive ones the stress that can come later in applying to many schools and when you request they be sent. until later in RD. during the RD round. 6. Midyear Report (MYR), which consists of your A FINAL WORD ON EARLY DECISION: many 4. REGULAR DECISION APPLICATION transcript, updated with midyear grades from your Each college has its own students and parents believe that applying ED to a The majority of applicants to any particular selective senior year, as well as any pertinent updates that may application procedure. All selective school may increase the student’s chances of college or university use the Regular Decision application. be needed (e.g., disciplinary information for incidences acceptances are conditional upon being admitted. While admission rates tend to be higher in Deadlines are relatively standard (usually January 1 or 15), that occur in the senior year, serious illness, etc.). Like the “successful completion of your the ED round, this DOES NOT mean that the chances of as are the notification dates (April 1 or just prior). Offers the SSR, the MYR is confidential. Again, if you are senior year.” It is important to admission to a particular institution for any given student of need-based financial aid are typically mailed/posted not applying to a school electronically, you MUST let know that “successful” is defined by applying to that school are higher. Here are some words of electronically along with the offer of admission. Some your counselor know and provide him or her with any each individual college, not by you or wisdom from Columbia University’s Admissions FAQ: schools offer only an RD option but have deadlines earlier necessary forms. Maret. Most colleges have a Regular in the fall (usually in November); these include any public Decision application option and an Although a larger percentage of the Early Decision colleges or universities in California and Florida. 7. Application Fee, which is usually payable online, and early option. applicant pool is admitted than the Regular must be received in order for a school to process and Decision pool, that higher acceptance rate reflects review your application. Colleges do not charge a fee to 1. EARLY DECISION APPLICATION the remarkable strength of a self-selected group make money, but rather to pay for the technology needed This type of application is offered by many schools. A of applicants. A candidate to whom we otherwise CONTENTS OF A to process the thousands of applications they receive. student may choose to apply to only ONE school Early would not offer admission is not going to be Some schools do not charge a fee to apply if you do so Decision (ED). The application deadline is earlier than accepted because he or she applied under the Early COMPLETED COLLEGE electronically or if you use a special application type, so Regular Decision (RD), usually November 1 or 15, Decision program. ask your counselor if they know of any free or reduced- although some schools use a second Early Decision (ED APPLICATION fee applications for a specific school to which you want to II) round with an application deadline around January 1. 2. EARLY ACTION APPLICATION apply. Application fees usually range from $35 to $80 and Under an ED plan, the student MUST sign an agreement This option is offered by many schools, too, and has a 1. Your application, including your essay/personal can add up—another reason to be thoughtful about where stating that, if admitted, they will enroll at that school; deadline similar to ED, but it differs from ED in that there statement and any additional short answer or essay you are applying. If these fees create a hardship for your they also MUST agree to withdraw all other applications is NO commitment on the part of the student to attend, responses to college-specific questions. family, please let your counselor know so that we can upon notification of their ED acceptance. Schools may if admitted. Usually, you may apply to multiple schools request fee waivers for you. accept or deny your application; alternatively, they may that offer Early Action (EA), but some schools will only 2. Secondary School Report (SSR) and Counselor defer making a final decision on your application, meaning allow a student to apply to one school (theirs) under this Recommendation, which includes the SSR form, your they will consider your application again in the RD round. option—this type of EA plan is known as Single Choice transcript, the Maret curricular and school profile, and Again, if you apply ED to a school and are admitted, Early Action (SCEA) or Restrictive Early Action (REA). your counselor’s letter of recommendation. The SSR is APPLICATION ESSAYS AND you are committed to enroll at that school; you and The decisions a student can receive under EA are the same confidential, though we strive to always put our most your college counselor have an obligation to notify any as in ED (admit, deny, defer). However, if admitted to a positive impressions of our students forward. If you PERSONAL STATEMENTS other schools to which you have applied that you have school under any EA plan, a student may still apply to are not applying to a school electronically, you MUST been accepted elsewhere under an ED agreement. The other colleges under RD. There are several advantages to let your counselor know and provide them with any In the fall of their senior year, Maret students spend advantage of ED is that if you get in, the college process applying EA: oftentimes, the college feels you are more necessary forms. countless hours brainstorming, outlining, writing, editing, is over for you, and you are letting the school know you interested or committed to going there if you apply EA; and polishing their application essays and personal love it. you can apply EA to a school and get an earlier decision 3. Supporting or Supplementary Materials, such as your statements with their college counselors. The essays are an from them, which may ease the stress of applying to many best analytical paper, photographs, a portfolio or a opportunity for the applicant to go beyond the objective IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE that if financial more colleges moving forward into the RD round; you creative piece, an interview, or athletic tape, as may be numbers and information (curriculum, grades, test scores) considerations are a large determining factor in your may apply to multiple schools EA (as long as none of required or invited by a school. and help admissions officers understand what is important college choice, ED may not be for you since you will them use SCEA/REA); and you can compare financial to her or him. Doing so gives insight into the applicant’s not be able to compare financial aid packages from other aid offers. 4. Teacher Recommendations, which are sent by the personality, character, perspectives, and values. The essay schools. Because most ED decisions are released in mid- College Counseling Office to ensure confidentiality. is where students can stand out from the pack, so it should December (only a few weeks prior to most RD deadlines), If you are not applying to a school electronically, you be tackled thoughtfully, authentically, and with time to rework and edit. 8 9 THE COLLEGE APPLICATION

As with any essay, you should have a plan or outline ACADEMIC RECORD before you write. Be intentional about how you lay out From the your work and thoughts. While not an academic piece, JOHNS HOPKINS your essay should show off your writing skills. HERE ARE SOME OTHER POINTERS: UNIVERSITY 1. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO WRITE. You will likely need to write several drafts UNDERSTANDING THE students do not earn extra GPA points undergraduate for each essay, personal statement, or short answer by taking an advanced or accelerated response each application requires. So plan ahead and ACADEMIC RECORD course. admission website: give yourself plenty of time for multiple drafts. In fact, you can get started with your college counselor in UNDOUBTEDLY, THE MOST IMPORTANT If you are curious about how to calculate “Essays that worked” are distinct August, before the school year begins in earnest. PART OF ANY COLLEGE APPLICATION IS THE your cumulative Maret GPA, we have and unique to the individual ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPT. included a guide below based on our writer; however, each of them 2. Make sure the essay is your story, in your voice. Each student at Maret has a transcript (a sample grading system. We share this formula with While it is fine to have your college counselor, an is below), which contains the name of each admissions officers so that they understand assisted the admissions reader in English teacher, or your parents take a look at your course taken each year of high school; the how we calculated your Maret GPA. Each learning more about the student essays and provide feedback or advice, your pieces number of credits earned for each class; and the course taken has a credit value: most yearlong should sound like you—a high school senior. In other grade earned in each class. The Maret transcript academic and art classes are worth one credit; beyond the transcripts and activity words, make sure that the essays are your work, not also includes a cumulative Maret grade point some, however, are worth half of one credit. To sheets. The most important thing someone else’s work. Your written voice should average (GPA), which represents the student’s calculate your Maret GPA, multiply the credit to remember is to be original and represent your personality: if you are a funny person, grade average over the course of their high value of a course by the GPA points assigned to chances are your essay will be funny; if you are an school years. This Maret GPA only includes your letter grade in that course. Then, add up all creative as you share your own extremely intellectual person, your pieces may take that coursework completed at Maret and includes the points and divide the sum by the total number story with us.” tone. Let your personality shine through, and don’t try every course taken for a grade at Maret. of credits. This will give you your cumulative to make the essay anything else. Maret GPA. It is important to note that admissions officers 3. Do not write about something or in a way that typically do not compare students to each other GPA GRADE EQUIVALENTS (QUALITY POINTS) you think the colleges want. Admissions officers if they are attending dissimilar high schools. While there is no magic topic or subject you can or should are very smart folks—they know when your writing Since high schools vary greatly in terms of rigor, A = 4.00 A- = 3.67 B+ = 3.33 discuss, it is important to keep in mind that you have a is not yours, and they know when you are not being opportunities, and curricula, students are first B = 3.00 B- = 2.67 C+ = 2.33 relatively short amount of space (under 650 words) to authentic. Again, write about what matters to you and looked at within the context of their own high C = 2.00 C- = 1.67 D+ = 1.33 make your point. Thus, as a writer you must get in, make why, not about what you think they want to hear. school. This GPA is unweighted, meaning that D = 1.00 D- = 0.67 F = 0.00 your point, and get out. Some students find word limits challenging, but you do not have an alternative. Therefore, 4. Though the colleges you apply to may have similarities, choosing something to write about that you know well make sure that the supplement for each school is ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPT SAMPLE and that captures what is important to you is critical. unique. Every school has something unique about it.

Know what it is. Tadpole, Frog CEEB Code: 090115 3000 Cathedral Ave NW Accredited by the Association of Independent Maryland & D.C.Schools WHEN BRAINSTORMING ABOUT THINGS YOU’D LIKE Passing Grade:D- Waslhington, DC 20008 TO CONVEY TO AN ADMISSIONS COMMITTEE, THINK 5. Answer the question being asked. You can be as MARET ABOUT THE FOLLOWING: creative as you want to be in your essays and talk about Parents/Guardians: Mr. & Ms. Maret Frog -.;os..:;fR.E VIVERE T'f'I IJ:AR.". ,IS TO 1 \'t 1. What do you truly care about in life? What do you whatever you want to talk about, but make sure your Date of Birth: 9/18/1999

value about the people in your life and the experiences response replies to the essay prompt’s question. you have had? Grade 12: 2017-2018 Grade 11:2016-2017 6. START EARLY. Yes, we said this already, but we want Subj[ects: Grade Credits Subjects: Grade Credits World Literature Religion and Literature A- 1.00 2. Why do you truly care about these people and to make sure you remember it. Civil Liberties Global zation and the Modern World A- 1.00 experiences? Calculus Advanced Precalculus B- 1.00 Advanced Physics (AB) Advanced Biology B+ 1.00 7. Pay attention to word or character limits. Most often Survey of Hispanic Literature Spanish 4 A- 1.00 3. What concrete details can you discuss to convey what your essay and supplements must fit into a text box that Concert Choir Advanced Clay A- 1.00 Physical Education p 0.00 matters to you and why? will not allow you to go over the maximum allowed.

4. Does your topic and how you plan to discuss it reveal Grade 10: 2015-2016 Grade 9: 2014-2015 something unique about you? Subjiects: Grade Credits Subjects: Grade Credits English 10 A- 1.00 Elements of Literature B+ 1.00 US History A- 1.00 Shaping of the Modern World B+ 1.00 Algebra 2 & Trigonometry A- 1.00 Geometry B+ 1.00 Chem Study B 1.00 Biology B 1.00 Spanish 3 A- 1.00 Spanish 2 A- 1.00 Concert Choir A 1.00 Clay Core A- 0.50 Physical Education p 0.00 Woodley Singers A 0.50 Physical Education p 0.00 10 11 Cumulative GPA: 3.49

15 each subject area is scored from 1 to 36 points, with the their teachers about possibly taking one or more AP Exams, TESTING STANDARDIZED median composite score being a 21. The writing score is but should not feel any pressure to take one. AP exam not included in the calculation of the composite score but scores of 4 or 5 are included on the Maret transcript. is reported. Many colleges that require SAT Subject Tests waive them if a student is submitting the ACT as their primary standardized test, but you are responsible for verifying which test scores your schools require. SAT VS. ACT

STUDENTS are responsible for registering themselves for Students have a choice of which standardized testing Most colleges The reading section has five passages based in different the ACT and for reporting their scores. Please visitwww. they can take and report to colleges and universities. We and universities require disciplines, and students are asked to answer questions actstudent.org for more information. encourage you to speak with the College Counseling applicants to submit results about what they read. The math sections (there are two) Office if you have questions about which test to take. from standardized testing as include questions that cover algebra, geometry, data AP EXAMS (ADVANCED PLACEMENT EXAMINATIONS) Many students experiment with both before making a part of the admissions process. analysis, and advanced math topics; testers may use a Advanced Placement Exams were originally designed to decision. The vast majority of Maret students will take the Following are the types of calculator on one of the math sections only. The writing give college credit for college level work done in high PSAT twice (once in the tenth grade, once in the eleventh standardized tests typically section tests students’ knowledge of writing style, though school, though today many colleges no longer offer credit grade)—a great practice run for the SAT. The College taken in high school. However, there are also questions on grammar usage and mechanics for high scores. AP Exam scores are not required in the Counseling Office also offers a practice ACT exam to there are a growing number of (though far fewer than the older version of the SAT). admission process at any American college or university, juniors in the fall, and encourages all juniors to try to take schools that no longer require Testers receive two scores ranging from 200 to 800 points: but they may be if you are considering schools abroad. If a it before making a choice of which test to take. Ultimately, standardized testing as part of one for math and one for evidence-based reading and student does well on an AP Exam, we encourage students the choice is yours. To help you learn more about each test, their admissions process. A list of writing. The essay is scored separately, and colleges also to report a strong score as it can suggest mastery of a we have put together the following comparison chart for these schools can be found on the receive the separate essay score; many colleges do not specific discipline’s foundational material or provide higher your consideration. National Center for Fair and Open require the essay portion of the SAT. course placement in college. Students should check-in with Testing’s website, www.fairtest.org. STUDENTS are responsible for registering themselves for PSAT (PRELIMINARY SCHOLASTIC the SAT. Please visit www.sat.collegeboard.org for more APTITUDE TEST) information. The PSAT is administered in the tenth SAT ACT and eleventh grades and simulates the SAT SUBJECT TESTS multiple-choice sections of the SAT (described below). The SAT Subject Tests are hour-long, multiple-choice TEST LENGTH 3 hours (without essay) or 2 hours 55 minutes (without essay) or The PSAT consists of four timed, multiple-choice sections exams that test your knowledge of a specific subject 3 hours 50 minutes with optional essay 3 hours 35 minutes (with essay) that test students’ critical thinking skills and knowledge area. Students who have done advanced coursework in three different areas: reading, math, and writing and in a particular subject area here at Maret or who have SCORING Highest combined score: 1600 (800 Highest composite score: 36 language. Students receive two overall scores (one for demonstrated advanced proficiency in a subject area are on each of two sections, reported (36 on each of four sections, reported math and one for evidence-based reading and writing), encouraged to take Subject Tests in areas they consider individually; a composite is not individually; composite is an average of as well as a percentile rank that compares them to others their strengths. Though most colleges do not require calculated) the four sections) in their grade level nationally. The two scores are added Subject Tests, a strong score or two can supplement an together to give a student a Selectivity Index, which is application. Students should consult with their teachers ESSAY Optional; recommended Writing section/essay is optional (but used by the eleventh grade administration to enter the about taking a Subject Test in a particular subject area. required by most colleges); always student in the National Merit Scholarship competition. STUDENTS are responsible for registering themselves for administered as the last part of the exam Scores from the PSAT are NOT reported to colleges. The the Subject Tests and for reporting their scores. Please visit major function of this test is to prepare sophomores and www.sat.collegeboard.org/about-tests/sat-subject-tests for SECTIONS 4 required, with 1 each of Reading, 4 required, with 1 each of: English, Math, juniors for the SAT by familiarizing them with the types more information. Math (calculator), Writing and Language, Science Reasoning, Reading; Writing is of questions asked and by providing diagnostic feedback. Math (no calculator); Essay is optional; optional; 215 questions in total There is little correlation between the sophomore PSAT ACT (AMERICAN COLLEGE TESTING PROGRAM EXAM) 154 questions in total and the SATs, unless a student scores very, very well. There The ACT is the other primary standardized test used in is, however, much more correlation between the junior college admissions. Originally, it was the primary test for WRONG ANSWERS Do not count against your score Do not count against your score year PSAT and SAT. The PSAT is offered only once a students in the Midwest (the ACT is based in Iowa City, year (in October) and is administered by the College Iowa), but now students from all across the country (and VOCABULARY Tested in context, so as to test inferential Emphasized less; more grammar, Counseling Office. even abroad) are familiar with the ACT and choose to take reasoning rather than memorized punctuation, and syntax is tested it over the SAT. According to the ACT, their test measures definitions SAT (SCHOLASTIC APTITUDE TEST) general educational development and knowledge, rather The SAT is one of the two major standardized tests used than reasoning skills. The test contains four sections: QUESTION TYPES Critical Reading: multiple choice English: multiple choice by colleges in the admissions process. Like the PSAT, it English, Math, Science Reasoning, and Reading; there is Writing and Language: multiple choice Math: multiple choice contains multiple sections that test two different areas: an optional writing test as well, which the vast majority Math: multiple choice and student- Science Reasoning: multiple choice math and evidence-based reading and writing. There is of selective colleges and universities require. Students generated responses Reading: multiple choice|Writing: essay also an optional essay section, where students are asked receive sub-scores for each section of the test and a Essay: critical analysis of argument to respond critically in writing to a specific prompt. composite score, which is an average of the sub-scores; 12 13 STANDARDIZED TESTING

but we encourage you to speak with the college counseling NOT interfere with a student’s academic progress in their team before investing in any expensive preparation. Maret curricular work. Additionally, families should not feel pressured to invest more time and money into test STUDENTS HAVE A FEW NOTES ON TEST PREP COURSES AND TUTORING preparation than they are comfortable with. There are In a research report done by the National Association plenty of free or inexpensive ways to prepare that can help A CHOICE of which of College Admissions Counseling titled Preparation for improve students’ scores. College Admission Exams (NACAC, 2009), researchers standardized test concluded the following about SAT and ACT preparation they can take and courses and tutoring: TESTING ADVICE AND TIPS 1. All students should be encouraged to prepare before report to colleges and taking admission tests, but the potential benefits of We want all juniors to take both the SAT and Subject We encourage test preparation must be balanced against financial and Tests (if appropriate) or the ACT this year and to have the universities. opportunity cost. opportunity to retake the SAT or ACT if their results are you to speak with the College lower than they would like. Since colleges will consider Counseling Office if you have 2. Because empirical evidence suggests that the average the highest scores of each section of the SAT over multiple effects of commercial coaching programs are small, administrations, or your highest ACT, it is usually to your questions about which test to take; students should be counseled to consider less costly advantage to take the test more than once. Keep in mind, many students experiment with forms of test preparation. High school students and however, that most schools now require that you submit both before making a decision. their families should be counseled to be wary of scores from ALL administrations of the test you take. coaching rip-offs. Taking the test more than three times is usually seen as extraneous. It is also important to remember that both tests Currently, Capital Educators provides test preparation have been designed so that a typical student will do their services for Maret students, beginning in the spring of your best in the fall of their senior year of high school. However, junior year. However, families may pursue whichever test given our understanding of the Maret curriculum, we feel PREP COURSES, TUTORS, prep option best suits your budget, schedule, or learning our students are best suited to test for the first time in the style. Should your family wish to invest in a course or latter half of the junior year. AND ONLINE PROGRAMS tutor, we will be happy to provide you with advice and counsel. We encourage all students to take advantage of JUNIOR YEAR: WHEN AND WHICH TEST? The SAT and ACT measure the reading, writing, and Khan Academy’s FREE online SAT preparation (www. • Take the PSAT and practice ACT in October; compare mathematical skills a student has accrued over his or her khanacademy.org) if they are taking the SAT. Khan your scores, consult with the College Counseling Office lifetime. If you have not done a lot of reading in general, Academy partnered with the College Board to design this about which test to take if you are unclear about which cramming will not help much. However, many students free online program, and we believe it is one of the best you prefer based on your experience and performance SENIOR YEAR can benefit from SAT or ACT preparation courses, preparation opportunities out there. Students preparing with each. • Have your scores sent directly from the College Board tutoring, or online programs, which familiarize them with for the ACT may also qualify for free preparation help or the ACT to the colleges to which you are applying. the type of questions they will be asked and ease some of through Kaplan. However, it is important to remember • All juniors should register for the SAT in March or the If you are applying Early Decision or Early Action, you their fears about the tests. SAT or ACT classes can narrow that a student’s academic work is the most important ACT in either February or April must check with your schools to see which is the latest down math content, boost your vocabulary, give you a part of their college application. Test preparation should test date they will consider. Note too, that this often chance to practice strategies, • The SAT Subject Tests may be taken in May or June means you will have to submit your scores before seeing make you comfortable of the junior year. Many juniors decide to take these them, as doing so will delay their delivery. with the test, and provide in June because they have finished their courses a structure for study. But completely and find that studying for their final exams SAT and ACT courses are and AP Exams (where applicable) helps them study for expensive. Fortunately, there THE REAL CONSUMER QUESTION is the Subject Tests. Several Subject Tests are only offered are practice SAT and ACT in June, so check the College Board’s website for details. questions available for free not whether for some people coaching online, as well as full-length MAKE SURE TO: practice exams. Practicing may result in higher scores, but whether the • Register in advance. using these free resources expenditures by many, and it involves millions of dollars, will can help you prepare for make a significant difference in their educational outcomes • Get a good night’s sleep the evening before the test/s. these tests. Practice should be done under timed conditions to be worth it. Various studies of test preparation reveal that • Get to the correct test center in plenty of time—about so that you get used to the the gains from test preparation courses are quite modest. 20 minutes before the official start time. proper pacing of each test. How you prepare for the SAT — Fred Hargadon, • Have the correct admission ticket, photo identification, or ACT is a personal choice, Former Dean of Admissions at Swarthmore calculator, and #2 pencils; you should refer to the College and Princeton University websites of both testing agencies for rules and regulations regarding these. 14 and former Head of the College Board 15 2. Know the college. Do not ask questions that can readily you are great, so be confident and earnest. Try to be VISITING COLLEGES be answered by a quick perusal of the college’s website calm and enjoy the person with whom you are talking. or a college guide. Rather, ask questions about what Be sincere, show some humility, and, most important, you have already learned about the school. For example, be honest. instead of asking how many geographical areas students come from, ask what effect that distribution has on the 8. DO NOT TAKE OUT OR USE YOUR CELL campus atmosphere. Instead of asking whether they PHONE. It is rude and suggests you are disinterested. have a psychology department, ask whether it has an experimental or clinical emphasis, or whether research 9. Possible interviewer's questions: opportunities are available, and what specific research • What books have you read lately? Is there one that isiting college Prior to visiting colleges, call, research the schools’ students participated in last year. If a senior thesis is V really impacted you? Why? campuses in person can websites, or email to learn about campus visits. Most required, ask for examples of several recent titles. be one of the most helpful schools will offer a group information session and • What are your favorite courses and why? activities of your college tour, sometimes several times each day. These are good 3. Ask honest, thoughtful questions whose answers you • What did you do last summer? search. Starting in your opportunities to learn more about academic and social really want to know. Don’t ask questions simply to ask junior year, we encourage life at these schools, as well as to get valuable information questions. It is impossible for you to know everything • What do you expect to gain from a college education? you to find time to take a about the admissions process at each. Before you go, read about a school, so think hard about why you are • What academic areas are you most interested in? quick visit to some of our up on the school to make sure you are reasonably well interested in the school and how it might fit your needs local colleges: the University of informed about it so that you can make the most of your as a student. This should help you come up with at least • What extracurricular activities do you like most? Why? Maryland, George Washington visit by asking pointed, thoughtful questions of your two or three questions about academics alone. • How would you describe yourself to someone who University, Georgetown tour guides and admissions officers (who usually lead the did not know you? University, Howard University, group information sessions). 4. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Be prepared American University, Catholic to elaborate on the former and explain the latter. • How have you spent your free time? University, Goucher College, St. Visiting classes, the school bookstore, and the library, and Talking about either will not necessarily help, but • Why are you thinking about going to college? Mary’s College of Maryland, George talking to as many students as possible are good ways acknowledging that you are self-aware and can maturely Mason University, and the University of finding out about the academic atmosphere of the articulate your interests, talents, achievements, and areas • Who are your heroes? of Mary Washington are all within a school. It is also a good idea to have a meal in one of the in need of improvement will leave a positive impression. • Who has been your favorite teacher and why? 70-mile radius of Maret. These initial dining halls, just to see what the food is like (this will be tours will give you an idea of different important to your daily life on campus). Spending a night 5. Anticipate the questions you might be asked (some • How have you changed throughout high school? types of colleges and universities. There on campus is also possible at many schools and can give are listed below). Again, be thoughtful about how you • Where do you see yourself in 10 years? are several small liberal arts colleges, you a good idea about what life is like after dark at each. might respond and why you might answer them in a including Haverford, Swarthmore, Bryn Mawr, Dickinson, particular way. • What kind of learner are you? and Franklin and Marshall, as well as larger schools, like • What do you like the most about your high school? the University of Virginia, the University of Pennsylvania, 6. Answer the why. “What size is your senior class?" The least? and West Virginia University, within a 2–3 hour drive. COLLEGE INTERVIEWS requires a short, straightforward answer, but “What is Using these more local schools to get a sense of how life your favorite course?” not only should be answered • How do you see yourself contributing to life outside is like at different types of institutions will help you frame The importance of an interview varies considerably from with “20th Century Europe” or “Advanced Chemistry,” the classroom in college? your college search moving forward. college to college. Some schools require interviews; most but an explanation of why it is your favorite class. • Talk about a project, classroom assignment, or do not; and still others view having an optional interview Open-ended questions require you to elaborate. Always experience that led to an “aha!” moment. Once you have some idea of what type(s) of school you as an indication of your interest. Some schools consider answer the why behind the questions you are asked. might like to see outside of the immediate area, consider interviews as informational for the applicant, while others • If you could change one thing about your high planning a college trip. Many students have found that use the interview to evaluate and distinguish among 7. Be you. DO NOT try to be someone you think they school experience, what would it be and why would the spring vacation of their junior year and the following candidates. No matter how a college considers interviews, want. Authenticity is important to admissions officers, you change it? summer are good times to get an overview of many colleges. a good one can only help you and provide an opportunity who can sniff out artifice from a mile away. Believe us: • Do you feel that your high school transcript truly to communicate what is unique about yourself. reflects your abilities? If not, why? Although the summer provides time to visit, few students may be on campus, and the campus will possibly feel Most interviewers—whether admissions officers, current • What is your biggest weakness? What is your different than it would during the spring or fall semester. students, or alumni—will try to create a friendly, relaxed greatest strength? There are no specific times set aside by Maret for seniors atmosphere so that you can respond comfortably and • If you could change something about yourself, what to visit colleges in the fall, but you will be able to make honestly. They will not only ask you questions, they will MANY STUDENTS HAVE would it be? plans to visit colleges during the first semester. Teachers expect you to ask questions of them. So prepare for your will try to understand when you miss school to visit interview ahead of time. Here are some suggestions: FOUND that the spring • If you could travel anywhere in the world, where colleges, but you will be responsible for making up would you go, and why? any missed assignments according to your teachers’ 1. Come to the interview prepared. Take time beforehand vacation of their junior • Do you have any interesting or unique hobbies? instruction. As you plan, it is important to minimize to think about what is valuable to you in your college missed class time as much as possible and perhaps use search and prepare questions that will help you learn year and the following fall visits to participate in organized visit programs that what each college offers to help you maximize your maximize your campus visit experience. experience. A college journal is a handy tool for this. summer are good times to get an 16 overview of many colleges. 17 opportunity to learn more about the athletics program RECRUITMENT ATHLETICS & at the school, your sport at the school, and the coach. If you like what you hear, you may want to schedule an unofficial visit to the school (meaning you pay the expenses for it).

If you interest a coach, they will likely want to see you playing. Every year, Maret coaches host dozens of college coaches on our campus. Meeting coaches while they are here and having the chance to play in front of them is Many students who • Attend showcases and tournaments outside of school. helpful. So, too, is having coaches see you playing outside have enjoyed playing sports This is where college scouts check out who is coming of Maret. Be sure to ask your Maret and non-Maret during their high school years up. If you are not competing well at these events, coaches if and when college recruiters are visiting. want to continue playing and chances are you will not be on a coach’s radar. competing in college. College THE NCAA ELIGIBILITY CENTER athletics are a great way to meet HOW RECRUITMENT WORKS NCAA Division I and Division II schools offer athletics new people, provide structure Although college coaches pound the pavement to discover scholarships. If you are interested in playing at an NCAA to your day, represent your new talent every year around the country, most student Division I or Division II school, you MUST be vetted by school, and stay in shape. But athletes are discovered by college coaches because they the NCAA’s National Clearinghouse. The Clearinghouse the recruitment process and how are proactive in reaching out to the coaches. The NCAA determines your academic eligibility to play an it influences college admissions limits how often and when college coaches can contact interscholastic sport at the Division I and II levels. If you can be complex. Below is helpful prospective student athletes—in fact, coaches cannot talk want to be recruited to play at a Division I or II school information for you and your family to you until your junior year. However, if they don’t and receive a scholarship, you must meet the NCAA’s if you are considering playing a know about you, they likely won’t talk to you in your eligibility requirements. While all NCAA Division I and II schools must abide by varsity sport in college. junior year. the NCAA’s eligibility standards, many leagues within For both Division I and II schools, students’ MUST the divisions (like the Ivy League and Patriot League) FIGURING OUT IF YOU CAN PLAY So how can you get on a coach’s radar? One of the have earned credits in a range of core academic areas. have their own minimum eligibility requirements that far As much as you love a sport and are easiest ways is to fill out a prospective athlete inquiry The NCAA Clearinghouse updates approved courses exceed the NCAA’s. committed to it, your ability to play in form. These are found on a college’s website, typically for credit each year for every accredited high school, college will be determined by a wide range of factors. under the athletics section. You will be asked to provide including Maret. The required earned credits follow: NATIONAL LETTER OF INTENT Even if a student has the ability and skill to play at an elite contact information, as well as both academic and For a student to officially be offered an athletic level, sometimes they are not recruited to play because the athletic information (e.g., your height, weight, position DIVISIONS I AND II—16 CORE COURSES: scholarship by a coach and school, the student, a parent schools they are interested in do not have a need for them played, regional or national ranking, club team coach, • 4 years of English or legal guardian, and the college’s director of athletics at the time. So, in order to figure out if you can play a school coach, etc.) for the coaching staff to review. Some • 3 years of mathematics at Algebra I and higher must sign a National Letter of Intent (NLI). The NLI is sport in college, it is a good idea to do the following: prospective athlete forms may also require a resumé of • 2 years of natural and/or physical science, including a contract between the student and institution which is your athletic career or a film of you playing. Your Maret 1 year of laboratory work administered by the NCAA on behalf of the Collegiate • Check-in with your Maret coach/es and club coach/ coaches can help you fill out the questionnaires, as well • 1 year of additional English, mathematics, or natural/ Commissioners Association. It is important to note that es prior to your senior year and let them know you as help you put together a film or reel of you playing. For physical science the NLI is not an offer of admission to the college. Only a might be interested in playing sports in college. They coaches of individual sports, such as tennis, swimming • 2 years of social science signed letter by the college’s dean of admission offering can likely give you great advice on how and where and diving, fencing, wrestling, or gymnastics, a regional • 4 years of additional courses from any area above, acceptance to the college is an offer of admission. In fact, to improve your game and athleticism, help you put or national ranking, or foreign language, or non-doctrinal religion or the NLI states: together an athletics resumé,introduce you to the placements and times philosophy National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA’s) at competitive meets This NLI shall be declared null and void if the rules and regulations for recruitment, and put you will be necessary. One of the easiest ways To determine eligibility, the NCAA Clearinghouse uses institution named in this document notifies me in in touch with students who have been through the to get on a coach’s a sliding scale of grade point average (GPA) in core writing that I have been denied admission or, by recruitment process before. If you hear back academic requirement courses and SAT or ACT scores the opening day of classes in the fall, has failed from coaches, keep radar is to (the sum of each of the sections, minus the writing to provide me with a written notice of admission, • Learn about the NCAA’s eligibility rules. The NCAA in mind that they are section). The minimum GPA is a 2.30 to be eligible to provided I have submitted a complete admission is the governing body of college athletics at all levels, likely talking to many fill out a play in Division I and 2.00 in Division II. It is important application…If I am eligible for admission, but from the biggest and highest (Division I) to the smallest other students like to note, however, that as of August 1, 2018, the NCAA the institution named in this document defers my (Division III). To be able to play at a Division I or II you. Do not assume PROSPECTIVE changed its eligibility requirements for Division II admission to a subsequent term, the NLI will be school, you must meet certain academic eligibility that you will have a student athletes. The NCAA Quick Reference Guide declared null and void. requirements. Knowing these requirements early will coach’s support in the ATHLETE is a great resource for those beginning the recruitment help you understand if you are academically eligible to admissions process process: http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/eligibility_center/Quick_ In other words, even if you sign a National Letter of play at these schools. simply because s/he INQUIRY FORM. Reference_Sheet.pdf. Intent, it does not mean you are heading to College X. calls you. Rather, Only when College X’s dean of admission sends you an see this initial acceptance letter can you be 100% sure you are on your conversation as an way to College X. 18 19 ATHLETICS AND RECRUITMENT

NCAA DIVISION III While NCAA Division I and II athletics FINANCIAL AID are the largest and most organized sports programs and offer athletic scholarships, most smaller colleges participate at the NCAA Division III level.

The most well known of these schools tend to be liberal arts colleges, though not exclusively, and compete mostly in regional conferences with limited travel required. Because college costs keep rising, more and more number of children in the Unlike Division I and II schools, colleges that families are concerned about how they are going to afford family who will be in college, participate in NCAA Division III athletics the expense. Fortunately, colleges and universities are all of the family’s income, do not and cannot offer athletic scholarships. offering more and more financial aid to students and savings and assets, the age of Thus, they are regulated much less by the their families than ever before. In particular, many of the parents/guardians (relative to NCAA. most selective and priciest schools in the country have retirement), and tax liability. made aid available to families of varying income levels. Both organizations will send Division III schools do offer a high level of competition, • SCIAC (The Southern California Intercollegiate Many middle-income families who think they will not the results of their analysis to despite what you may have heard, but they do not invest Athletic Conference), which includes: California qualify for need-based financial aid may be surprised with your prospective colleges and in athletics financially the way most Division I and II Institute of Technology, California Lutheran the generous financial aid packages they receive. Some you. Each college, however, may institutions do. University, Chapman University, Claremont colleges practice need-blind admissions, which means look differently at what the Federal McKenna-Harvey Mudd-Scripps Colleges, Occidental that a family’s ability to pay for college will not affect the Government and the CSS have Moreover, they do not have a common eligibility process College, Pomona-Pitzer Colleges, University of student’s admission decision. Some schools, however, are decided about your need. like most Division I and II schools. Instead, many of the Redlands, and Whittier College need-aware or need-sensitive, meaning that they do take over 400 Division III schools in the United States belong into account a family’s ability to pay or need level when to a conference that has its own rules about admission, • NWC (The Northwest Conference), which includes: making the final decision on a student’s application for so it is important for you to understand these if you are Lewis & Clark College, University of Puget Sound, admission. It is thus important to understand a college’s MAJOR FORMS OF interested in playing at a Division III school. Whitman College, and Willamette University financial aid policies before applying if you think financial aid will be a determining factor in your decision to attend FINANCIAL AID The more commonly known Division III athletic • Centennial Conference, which includes: Bryn a particular institution. conferences are: Mawr College, Dickinson College, Franklin and PELL GRANTS Marshall College, Gettysburg College, Johns Hopkins WHAT IS FINANCIAL AID? These are federal entitlement grants offered only to • NESCAC (The New England Small Colleges Athletic University, McDaniel College, Muhlenberg College, Financial aid refers to a wide spectrum of funding students whose family incomes qualify them for other Conference), which includes: Amherst College, Bates Swarthmore College, Ursinus College, and Washington sources available to students and their families to help federal programs such as free lunch subsidies. Family College, Bowdoin College, Colby College, Connecticut College reduce the cost of attendance at a particular college. It is incomes of Pell Grant recipients are typically within the College, Hamilton College, Middlebury College, important to understand that every college and university bottom quintile of incomes nationally (roughly $30,000/ Trinity College (CT), Tufts University, Wesleyan • UAA (The University Athletic Conference), which has its own unique way of determining your family’s year for a family of four). Size of family is taken into University, and Williams College includes: Brandeis University, Carnegie Mellon financial need.Financial aid comes in two forms: need- account. The maximum amount of a Pell Grant is $5,815/ University, Case Western Reserve University, Emory based and merit-based. year. Like all grants, these do not have to be repaid. University, New York University, University of Chicago, University of Rochester, and Washington Need-Based Financial Aid is aid provided to families FEDERAL SUPPLEMENTAL EDUCATIONAL For a student to officially be offered University in St. Louis of students who demonstrate they are unable to pay for OPPORTUNITY GRANTS (FSEOG) an athletic scholarship by a coach and the entire cost of attendance at a particular college. Who These grants have similar income requirements as the • Liberty League, which includes: Bard College, determines need, or the amount a family can afford Pell Grant and are awarded to students at the college school, Clarkson University, Hobart and William Smith to pay? Ultimately, the colleges themselves make this they are attending, rather than directly from the federal the student, a parent Colleges, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Skidmore decision. However, they depend upon two organizations government. Schools have limited FSEOG funding and College, St. Lawrence University, Union College, and to give them guidelines for determining eligibility. Some award these grants to their students with the greatest or legal guardian, and Vassar College colleges depend only on the federal Department of demonstrated need who also qualify for a Pell Grant. The Education, which asks students and their families to FSEOG does not have to be repaid. the college’s director complete the Free Application for Federal Aid (FAFSA) beginning in October. The FAFSA is required by ALL College-Specific Need-Based Grants and Scholarships of athletics must sign a COLLEGES. Some colleges also ask for a more detailed assessment of a family’s finances, known as the College These are awards that come directly from the college, NATIONAL LETTER OF Scholarship Service’s CSS PROFILE. Both the CSS and usually given to students who demonstrate financial Federal Government determine a family’s Estimated need. They differ from college to college. Most colleges INTENT (NLI). Family Contribution (EFC) based on a complex formula and universities have their own financial aid budgets (this that takes into consideration the size of your family, the is usually one of the largest line items in any college’s

20 21 FINANCIAL AID

annual budget) and distribute their grants and scholarships PRIVATE SCHOLARSHIPS ADDITIONAL TIPS directly from their own offices of financial aid. These COLLEGES AND Each year, different community organizations, • Talk to each other early about finances for college. grants and scholarships are free money; they do not need foundations, professional associations, fraternities to be paid back to the college. UNIVERSITIES ARE and sororities, religious institutions, and civic groups • Do not be scared of sticker prices, calling financial offer millions of dollars to students through their own aid offices, or asking a college for more aid than they COLLEGE-SPECIFIC MERIT-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS OFFERING MORE AND scholarship programs. Please speak with your college initially offer. As opposed to need-based awards, merit scholarships, counselor in the fall of your senior year about exploring which only some schools give, are awarded to students MORE financial aid these possibilities. • Use calculators provided on college websites to get an who meet criteria for academic, artistic, personal, or estimate of their cost for your family. These are free to athletic excellence, regardless of the family’s financial to students and their PRIVATE LOANS use and usually quite accurate since they are college- need. Some colleges require an additional application Some major and local banks offer student loans. Let the specific. for their merit scholarships, while others only require an families than ever buyer beware: some of these products are attractive and application for admission. These awards are funded by . In particular, many of have advantageous interest rates and repayment options. • Do your taxes early, if possible, as the FAFSA special endowments at the college and do not have to be before Others, however, have variable or very high interest rates. becomes available January 1 and is usually due to most paid back. the most selective and priciest colleges by March 1. schools in the country have made A SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT LOANS FEDERAL DIRECT LOANS While borrowing is not ideal, the reality is that most • Organize yourself so that you know each college’s If you complete and submit a FAFSA to the Department aid available to families of varying American college students today borrow to pay for at financial aid deadlines and documentation requirements. of Education, you qualify for a Direct Loan, regardless of income levels. least some of their college educations. These loans can your family’s financial situation. Direct Loans (formerly help students build their credit and often give them a • Educate yourself about how each college determines called Stafford Loans) are the most common student loan sense of financial responsibility for the first time. We need and eligibility for aid. and are used by millions of college students. highly recommend, however, that students not borrow more over the four years that they are in college than • Come to Maret’s Financial Aid Workshop, offered Students can borrow a maximum of $5,500 to $12,000/ they think they will be making in their first job after in the fall. Please contact your counselor for more year through the Direct Loan program, depending on FEDERAL WORK STUDY graduation. Most federal loans have income-dependent information. their year in college and other factors. These loans Funding is available from the federal government to repayment options or, if fixed, have to be repaid over 15 typically have very attractive interest rates and may be subsidize campus job salaries for students with financial years, making the burden of, say, a $30,000 total note, • Remember that we can help you. subsidized by the federal government, meaning that they need through the Federal Work Study Program. Students manageable. Borrowing more than that over the four do not accrue interest until graduation; or the loans are who qualify for Federal Work Study are typically years, however, is not advised. It is important too, to think • Learn more at these websites: unsubsidized, meaning that they begin to accrue interest guaranteed a part-time job at their college and must work beyond the undergraduate years. If you are considering once they are dispersed to your college. Either way, Direct to earn this aid. Students will receive a paycheck to help pursuing graduate work that will require loans as well, it is Federal Student Aid (studentaid.ed.gov) Loans do not go into repayment until you have graduated offset expenses, but it is important to note that the amount important to keep undergraduate loan debt manageable. US Department of Education guide to federal financial from college. If you leave college, you will have to start of Work Study awarded is not deducted from the tuition bill. aid repaying them. Like any loan, Direct Loans must be repaid. STATE OR LOCAL FUNDING Fastweb (fastweb.com) FEDERAL PERKINS LOANS Maryland, Virginia, and DC each offer different funding A free scholarship search service These are loans available to students with exceptionally sources and options for their residents—from grants high financial need. Typically, the college is the lender, and scholarships to loans and savings plans. The most FinAid (finaid.org) though the funding comes from the federal government. common form of state support is in-state tuition at The SmartStudent™ Guide to Financial Aid The interest rate for the Perkins Loan is 5%; funding public colleges and universities, which makes the total depends on your family’s need level and how much other cost of attendance at these schools far lower than at financial aid you are receiving. These must also be repaid. private institutions and out-of-state public institutions. Residents of the District of Columbia, who do not have FEDERAL PLUS LOANS a comprehensive four-year public university system, may The PLUS Loan, or Parent Loan for Undergraduate benefit from DC TAG, the District’s Tuition Assistance Students, is a loan for parents, who may borrow up to Grant. This grant provides residents of DC with up to the total cost of attendance, minus any other financial aid $10,000 to attend most pubic universities around the amounts, for each dependent child who is enrolled in an country; $2,500 to attend a Historically Black College or accredited college or university at least half-time. There University; or $2,500 to attend a private Washington, DC are many different repayment options, but borrowers college or university. Please note: DC TAG funding is typically must not have an adverse credit history to contingent upon board funding and is not guaranteed each qualify. These loans are in the parents’ names and, like year. Also, it is a common misconception that DC TAG all loans, must be paid back. Unlike the student loans is equivalent to a student receiving in-state tuition rates. noted above, repayment for PLUS loans begins before the This is not the case: DC TAG is a fixed amount of aid and student has graduated. oftentimes does not make up the difference between in-state and out-of-state costs.

22 23 COUNSELORS INDEPENDENT TAKING A GAP YEAR

Every year, a number We encourage all students to apply and commit to a As a department, our experience in college counseling By contrast, independent of Maret seniors consider a college or university before embarking on a Gap Year. and college admissions, as well as our knowledge of counselors are not permitted Gap Year after high school. Colleges generally are happy to defer admission and Maret’s unique curriculum and admission history, allows to contact colleges and Instead of matriculating in the permit committed students to take a Gap Year, as long as us to provide personalized and effective advice and universities on students’ fall after graduation at a college they have a well-considered plan for the year. information for each student and family. behalf. Students with multiple or university, they spend a year advisors may feel torn when exploring special interests, often Maret’s college counseling team will be happy to assist Nevertheless, some families wonder if they should hire receiving potentially conflicting outside an academic setting. This any student considering a Gap Year to think carefully outside educational consultants or independent college advice, and as a result, may not option is becoming increasingly about some reasons for doing so, to discuss pros and counselors. We believe that is not necessary. feel comfortable expressing their popular as students and their cons, and to suggest resources to help students develop a own ideas about college lists or families realize the benefits of concrete plan for the year. Some resources for exploring Maret’s counselors provide focused, individualized essay topics. Finally, time spent students taking some time to Gap Year possibilities can be found at the American Gap attention through one-on-one meetings, workshops, and with an independent counselor explore, mature, and grow before Association (www.americangap.org). In addition, there is formal programs tailored to our students, parents, and could be time better spent with committing themselves to four years usually a Gap Year Fair in February in the DC area (for guardians. We have extensive knowledge of colleges your assigned counselor to cultivate of expensive higher education. the past several years it has been held at Georgetown Day and universities (domestic and international), as well a relationship that best supports the School). as experience working with students who may have student’s needs and interests. We encourage all Maret students to special circumstances that impact their college search and explore the possibility of a Gap Year. application processes. We regularly work with, advise, and If you do plan to use the services of an Maret graduates who have taken Gap advocate for students with learning differences, recruited independent counselor, please let your Years have found them to be very rewarding. Experiences athletes, performers and artists, and other students with counselor know so that we can have open such as working on a goat farm, learning to raise heritage specific programmatic needs. and honest discussions about feedback. Further, we ask crops in Italy, interning on Capitol Hill or for a business, that students privately share essays for review with your volunteering to help support endangered mammals in Beyond the cost associated with hiring independent Maret counselor as a separate document. South Africa, taking a film course in New York City, counselors, in some cases, we have found that working and participating in international horse shows are just a with an independent counselor has the potential for a The Maret College Counseling Team is your student’s few of the opportunities that have attracted recent Maret negative impact on your student’s process and progress. primary and best advocate in the college process. graduates during their Gap Years. As school-based counselors, we are able to advocate on Therefore, while we understand that independent behalf of our students with admissions officers and to counseling has become a perceived necessity, we Some families wonder if taking a Gap Year might offer provide context that may assist them in making decisions. encourage you to make use of the personalized and students a chance to make themselves more appealing professional resources provided at Maret. to colleges, potentially ameliorating a less-than-stellar academic record. It is important to remember that the high school transcript—the record of courses taken and grades RESOURCES earned in high school—remains the single most important National Association factor considered by admissions officers during the college of College Admission process. Students should not expect their ability to get into TRULY, THE MARET COLLEGE Counseling a particular college to be substantially enhanced by the (www.nacacnet.org) Gap Year experience. COUNSELING TEAM is your student’s Independent Educational On the other hand, students may well discover that their primary and best-resourced advocate Consultants Association attitude towards and motivation to succeed in college We operate in ways that (www.iecaonline.com) increases as a result of time away from school. More in the college process. mature and experienced, they will be better aware of why independent counselors cannot, and our job is to support American School Counselor they are in school and more prepared to make the most of your student throughout his or her college search and Association college. application process. (www.schoolcounselor.org)

24 25 • The College Money Handbook, Peterson’s/Thompson • Harvard Schmarvard: Getting Beyond the Ivy League

RESOURCES REFERENCES & Learning, Inc. to the College That is Best for You, Jay Matthews. Three Rivers Press. Written by a Harvard alum, this • www.finaid.org­—comprehensive guide to need-based book looks at the importance of taking advantage of and merit-based aid resources at the college you attend to grow and succeed, rather than resting on your college’s name and prestige. • www.scholarships.com—scholarship database The focus is on helping you find a college that fits your individual needs, rather than prestige. • www.fastweb.com—scholarship database • Looking Beyond the Ivy League: Finding the College There are hundreds of SPECIALIZED GUIDES FOR STUDENTS AND • www.studentaid.ed.gov—Federal financial aid site That’s Right For You, Loren Pope. Penguin Books. college guides and websites THEIR FAMILIES From the author of The Colleges That Change Lives, available to help you and your • The Multicultural Student’s Guide to Colleges, The GREAT READINGS FOR PARENTS AND GUARDIANS the ultimate guide to identifying the right college for family negotiate the college Noonday Press. Thorough guide about multicultural • Where You Go Is Not Who You Will Be: An Antidote you. search and admissions process. life and diversity at over 150 colleges and universities. to the College Admissions Mania, Frank Bruni. Grand As is always the case, some are Central Publishing. (We love this one and recommend WEBSITES better than others. As we have • The K&W Guide to Colleges for Students with it to all students and their parents/guardians.) College websites are one of the most useful sources of mentioned, it is important for Learning Disabilities, Random House, Inc. Guide to information available. Through them, you often can take you to be an informed consumer domestic colleges and universities that provide services • The Launching Years: Strategies for Parenting from a virtual tour of the campus, email specific departments or of information about colleges. for students with learning disabilities. Discusses Senior Year to College Life, Laura S. Kastner and administrators to answer questions, view the entire course How information is presented, services, academic life, and campus life. Jennifer Wyatt. Three Rivers Press. Advice for parents/ catalog and examine curricular information, and learn who is presenting it, and what guardians regarding the transition to college. about student life. Though the colleges typically paint their intentions are may not always • Princeton Review Student Athlete’s Guide to College, themselves in the best possible light on their own websites, be clear. Thus, it is important to Princeton Review/Random House. Basic overview • The Naked Roommate: For Parents Only: A Parent’s you can still get a clear sense of what the institution values. try your best to distinguish factual, guide for students interested in varsity college athletics. Guide to the New College Experience: Calling, Not objective information from opinions Calling, Packing, Preparing, Problems, Roommates…, COLLEGE FAIRS, LOCAL INFORMATION SESSIONS, and hearsay or outdated perspectives. • The Advocate College Guide for LGBT Students, Shane Harlan Cohen. Helpful, witty guide to college life for AND COLLEGE VISITS TO MARET Below are several great guides, books, L. Windmeyer. Companion guide to colleges for LGBT parents in the modern age. These are hosted throughout the year. The Washington and websites to help you learn more students, featuring students’ and college administrators’ Area Independent Schools College Fair, co-hosted about different colleges and the views on LGBT life and issues on college campuses. • Letting Go: A Parent’s Guide to Understanding the by several independent schools in the area, is held in admissions process. College Years (3rd Edition), Karen Levin Coburn and late April for juniors and their families. Attending this • On Your Own: A College Readiness Guide for Teens Madge Lawrence Treeger. Harper Collins. Insight and event is a good way to get information on many schools GENERAL GUIDES ABOUT VARIOUS with ADHD/LD, Patricia O. Quinn, Theresa Laurie support for parents and guardians on separating from quickly and to have some of your questions answered by SELECT COLLEGES Maitland, and Bryan Ische. Guide to help teens prepare their students who are leaving home for college. representatives from over 150 colleges and universities • Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools You Should for college life. Offers self-assessments on problem- from around the country. In addition, the College Know About Even if You’re Not a Straight-A Student. solving skills and decision making; communication; and • Getting In Without Freaking Out: The Official College Counseling Office hosts over 100 college representatives Lauren Pope. Penguin Press. Pope highlights 40 lesser- identifying academic and social needs. Admissions Guide for Overwhelmed Parents, Arlene in the fall to meet with interested students. A list of known colleges that tap into students’ potential to help Matthews. Three Rivers Press. college visits is updated on the Maret school calendar. them reach the academic achievement of which they are • College Guide for Performing Arts Majors: The Real- capable. We’d love for every parent to read this book, if World Admission Guide for Dance, Music, and Theater GREAT MISCELLANEOUS READINGS MARET COLLEGE COUNSELING OFFICE possible. These schools offer a CTCL specific college Majors, Carole J. Everett/Peterson’s Guides. Guide to • Less Stress, More Success, Marilee Jones and Kenneth Remember, we know a lot about colleges. You can always fair and have a shared website: www.ctcl.org colleges and universities offering visual and performing Ainsburg. American Academy of Pediatrics. From the talk to any of our college counselors about the colleges arts majors. former dean of admissions at MIT and a pediatrician, a you are exploring. • The Fiske Guide to Colleges, Edward Fiske. great resource for help with managing your student’s Sourcebooks, Inc. Great narratives about the academic • Cool Colleges: For the Hyper-Intelligent, Self-Directed, stress and anxiety surrounding the college application and social experiences on hundreds of nationally Late Blooming, and Just Plain Different, Donald and admissions process. recognized colleges and universities and a few Canadian Asher. Ten Speed Press. Highlights great colleges and and British institutions. universities for very intelligent students who have hit • College Unranked: Ending the College Admissions their academic stride later in their high school careers. Frenzy, Lloyd Thacker. Harvard University Press. • Barron’s Profiles of American Colleges, Barron’s Written by the executive director of The Education Educational Series, Inc. General guide with basics about FINANCIAL AID Conservancy, a 30-year veteran of college admissions, hundreds of domestic colleges and universities. • The College Board College Cost and Financial this book explores the importance of educational and Aid Handbook, The College Board. General, personal values in the college process. • The Insider’s Guide to the Colleges: Students on comprehensive guide to college financial aid. Campus Tell You What You Really Want to Know, • The Gatekeepers, Jacques Steinberg. Viking Press. Yale Daily News Staff. Current students voice their • Paying for College Without Going Broke, Kalman Interesting look at selective college admissions from perspectives on the more than 300 colleges and Chany/Princeton Review. Strategic guide to applying inside the Wesleyan University admissions office, universities they attend. for need-based financial aid. written by a New York Times journalist. 26 27 COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES

Members of the classes of 2015–2019 enrolled in the following four-year colleges and universities. Bold indicates Class of 2019 matriculation. The numbers in parentheses indicate the total number of Maret School students from the classes of 2015–2019 that enrolled at each institution.

University of Aberdeen Davidson College University of Michigan (6) The New School (3) The University of Alabama University of Delaware Middlebury College (3) University of Toronto (2) American University Denison University (2) Morgan State University Towson University (2) Arizona State University DePaul University Mount Holyoke College Trinity College (3) The University of the Arts Dickinson College (7) Muhlenberg College (2) Trinity Washington University Babson College (4) Drexel University (2) New York University (7) Tufts University (9) Baldwin Wallace University Duke University (2) The University of North Tulane University (8) Bard College Eckerd College Carolina at Chapel Hill Union College (New York) Barnard College The University of Edinburgh Northeastern University (5) United States Air Force Bates College (3) Elon University (2) Northwestern University (5) Academy (2) Beloit College Emory University (3) Oberlin College of Arts and United States Naval Academy Boston College (2) Fordham University Sciences (7) Vanderbilt University (4) Bowdoin College (5) Franklin & Marshall College (3) Occidental College (7) Vassar College (5) Bowie State University The George Washington Olin College of University of Vermont (3) University of British University (3) Engineering (2) Villanova University Columbia (2) George Mason University Pennsylvania Academy of Virginia Commonwealth Brown University (10) Georgia Institute of the Fine Arts University (2) Bryn Mawr College Technology University of Virginia Military Institute (2) Bucknell University Gettysburg College Pennsylvania (8) University of Virginia (3) University of California, Davis Goucher College (3) Pitzer College (2) Wake Forest University (2) University of California, Grinnell College Pomona College Washington and Jefferson Los Angeles (2) Hamilton College (3) Princeton University (2) College University of California, Harvard University (4) Purdue University Washington University in San Diego (2) Harvey Mudd College Reed College (3) St. Louis (10) University of California, Haverford College (3) Rhode Island School of Wellesley College (3) Santa Barbara Hobart and William Smith Design (2) Wesleyan University (7) University of California, Colleges Rhodes College Wheeling Jesuit University Santa Cruz Howard University Rice University (5) Whitman College Carleton College (4) Indiana University at University of Richmond (3) Williams College (4) Carnegie Mellon University (2) Bloomington Roanoke College University of Wisconsin, Case Western Reserve The University of Iowa University of Rochester (6) Madison (2) University Johns Hopkins University Rose-Hulman Institute of Wofford College Centre College Kenyon College (4) Technology The College of Wooster Chapman University Lafayette College (2) Scripps College (4) Worcester Polytechnic College of Charleston (2) Lawrence University Sewanee: The University Institute University of Chicago (2) Lehigh University (2) of the South (3) Yale University (7) Christopher Newport Lewis & Clark College Skidmore College (2) University University of Limerick Smith College Cleveland Institute of Music Loyola University New University of Southern Colby College (6) Orleans (2) California (7) Colgate University (3) University of Lynchburg Spelman College (2) University of Colorado at Macalester College (3) University of St Andrews Boulder (3) University of Maryland, University of St. Thomas Colorado College (5) College Park (2) Stanford University (5) Columbia University (3) Massachusetts Institute of Swarthmore College (4) Connecticut College (2) Technology Syracuse University (6) University of Connecticut McGill University (2) Temple University (2) Cornell University (4) Miami University, Oxford (3) The University of Texas, Dartmouth College (3) University of Miami (3) Austin

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AUGUST 2019