College Counseling Guide Mission Statement
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2017-2018 COLLEGE COUNSELING GUIDE MISSION STATEMENT Cushing Academy exists for students and develops curious, creative, and confident learners and leaders. PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE The Portrait of a Graduate details and supports Cushing’s mission to educate the mind, shape the character, nurture the creativity, and foster the well-being of each student. As a lens through which we examine ourselves and our work, this portrait guides and informs all aspects of school life. A Cushing graduate learns, lives, and leads by these ideals: In my personal journey, I: • strive to be self-aware, self-disciplined, and self-controlled. • take initiative, adapt, and persevere. • live with optimism, passion, a sense of humor, and humility. • make informed choices for a healthy, balanced life. • advocate for myself. • pursue excellence in all areas of my life. In my intellectual journey, I: • think critically, creatively, and reflectively. • listen and communicate actively, thoughtfully, and effectively. • take risks and grow through challenges. • approach lifelong learning with openness and curiosity. In my community journey, I: • respect, support, and show gratitude. • value, engage fully in, and contribute to the diversity of my communities. • collaborate with others. • understand social systems. • serve others as an active citizen. In my ethical journey, I: • act with empathy and compassion. • act with integrity. • act with personal and social responsibility. • act with courage on behalf of others and myself. TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome .............................................................................................................................................................................................2 College Counseling Overview ........................................................................................................................................................2 Class Matriculations ........................................................................................................................................................................3 Getting Started: FAQ’s .....................................................................................................................................................................4 Overview and Guidelines (Grades 9 - PG) ....................................................................................................................................6 Anticipating the College Application Process (Grade 11) .........................................................................................................9 Twelfth Grade/Post Graduate........................................................................................................................................10 Testing................................................................................................................................................................................................12 Special Situations ............................................................................................................................................................................15 Student Athletes ..............................................................................................................................................................15 International Students ....................................................................................................................................................15 Post Graduate Students ..................................................................................................................................................17 Students with Learning Differences ............................................................................................................................17 The College Search ...........................................................................................................................................................................19 Learning More About Colleges ......................................................................................................................................19 Searching for the Right College for You .......................................................................................................................................21 Self-Reflection ..................................................................................................................................................................21 Interviewing......................................................................................................................................................................21 The Application ................................................................................................................................................................................24 Considerations Before Applying ...................................................................................................................................24 The Application ................................................................................................................................................................25 Making a Choice................................................................................................................................................................28 Financial Matters .............................................................................................................................................................................30 Financial Assistance and Scholarships .......................................................................................................................30 Types of Financial Aid .....................................................................................................................................................30 Applying for Financial Assistance ................................................................................................................................31 Reviewing Your Financial Aid Package .......................................................................................................................32 APPENDIX ..........................................................................................................................................................................................32 A: Student, Parent, College Counselor Expectations ...............................................................................................33 B: Web Resources .............................................................................................................................................................34 C: Financial Aid and Scholarship Information ...........................................................................................................34 D: Questions to Ask Colleges .........................................................................................................................................35 E: Student Calendars (Grades 9 – 12) ...........................................................................................................................37 F: GLOSSARY .....................................................................................................................................................................42 2017-2018 College Counseling Guide 1 WELCOME! Preparing for college begins with the first day of high school – the classes you take and the academic skills you master will build a strong foundation for future success in college and beyond. Whether you are a ninth grade or twelfth grade student, post-graduate, or parent, we are glad you are reading this guide, which will provide you with information relevant for each year of high school. Thinking critically and honestly about interests, strengths, and areas for growth during your time in high school increases the likelihood that you will find the right fit in a post-secondary institution. Enjoy the process! The College Counseling office is a resource available to you and your parents throughout your time at Cushing. We look forward to working with you. Sandra Michelman, Co-Director of College Counseling, is a graduate of Choate Rosemary Hall and Tufts University, where she earned a BA in English. She earned her Masters of Education in Higher Education Administration at Boston University. After working in college admissions at Boston University, Sandra served as Director of College Counseling at Boston University Academy for eleven years. This is her 11th year at Cushing. Emily Roller, Co-Director of College Counseling, is a graduate of Tabor Academy and Columbia University, where she earned a BA in Sociology. She has served in a variety of roles at Cushing, including mathematics instructor, dorm parent, and coach. This is her 16th year at Cushing. Sarah Catlin, Associate Director of College Counseling, is a graduate of The Loomis Chaffee School and Bucknell University, where she earned a BA in Political Science and English. She went on to earn a MA in Professional Communication from LaSalle University. In addition to working most recently as Associate Head of School at The White Mountain School, Sarah has worked in a variety of areas on the secondary and collegiate level, including admissions, development, residential life, financial aid, and coaching. Brian Jurek, Associate