Published by College Counselor Theresa Wright 773-881-6700 ext. 233
UPCOMING DATES:
College Counseling Newsletter
April 16: Career Day
S P R I N G ,
twright@morganparkacademy.org IMPORTANT
2 0 1 5
for Upper School April 18: ACT April 20: Aspire Testing for 9th Grad-
Making the Big Decision
ers May 1: National Reply Date for Admission Deposits May 2 : SAT May 8: Registration Deadline for June ACT May 4-15: AP Exams June 13: ACT
Individual College Meetings with Juniors have begun and will continue through April. Once I have met individually with your student, I welcome parents to schedule an appointment for a Junior Family College Planning meeting where we will discuss your child’s search specifically. Please call or email me to set that up.
During the next several weeks, students and families will be making what is seemingly the biggest decision you’ve made thus far in your student’s educational career: Where to attend college. For some, it is an easy decision while others struggle to narrow down their list of many great options. While students and parents began this process by examining size, location, cost, majors and other “factual” components of colleges and universities, the decision-making part of the process requires you to dig
a layer deeper and ask yourself some very important questions. At which school did I feel at home? Where will I learn in a manner that suits me best? Which school will help me to grow into an adult and young professional? Where will I be surrounded by people who will encourage me to grow? Where can I afford to go? Where will my talents and passions be nurtured? Where will my confidence be bolstered? At the end of this process lies tremendous relief,
excitement, and anticipation for the next phase of your child’s development. Remember that, while quantifiable statistics and reputation may be a part of your decision, many students choose the school that simply “feels right.”
Tips for Decision-Making Go back and read your campus visit journal, if you kept one. Talk to students who currently attend the schools you are considering.
“Great Jobs Great Lives,” Gallup-Purdue Index
Take a second official campus visit or attend an Admitted Student Open House.
According to the Gallup – Purdue Study, “Great Jobs Great Lives,” it is not merely where we go to college that leads to a productive and happy life. Rather, it is HOW we go to college that matters most. The study cites the correlation between professors who care personally about students, who excite and engage students, to satis-
Create a balance sheet with likes and dislikes about each of the schools you are considering.
faction in life and work after college. Long-term projects, mentorships, and internships also further enhance your satisfaction in work and life after college. Regardless of where you choose, remember to seek out and take advantage of the opportunities that are available on your campus.
Talk to your counselor or another adult whom you trust about your schools.