Director’s Message How do you choose the right college? Is there really a college for everyone? How does one start and complete the tasks of applying to, and selecting, a college? UPrep’s College Counseling Office has compiled the following handbook for juniors, seniors, and their families to answer their questions. Written with the intent to minimize the pressure associated with the college application process, this how-to manual strives to guide you through this educational milestone. We want to note that the college search process looks different this year due to COVID-19. When applicable, we have noted changes in the following guide. The College Counseling Office is in constant contact with colleges and universities in order to assist our community in navigating any and all changes in the college selection process due to COVID-19. We remain steadfast in our commitment to all of you. The college counseling program at UPrep is an extension of our educational program. We strongly believe that students should carry the responsibility for much of the college selection process, as the student is the candidate. Collecting information, soliciting recommendations, and organizing components of the application are all good learning experiences for college-bound students. From the UPrep College Counseling Office, you can expect a well-developed college counseling program that will not only assess a student’s college options, but also has methods in place for: •
addressing a student’s search for identity;
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dealing with the many facets of separation anxiety;
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coping with the expectations that students and families bring to the table; and
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confronting the feelings of vulnerability and apprehension with which students and families wrestle.
The College Counseling Office is a department that: •
helps create a college list for each student;
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hosts admissions representatives from more than 200 colleges and universities;
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provides pertinent information regarding application responsibilities;
holds individual meetings with students from the second semester of their junior year through their senior year; •
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presents college informational evenings throughout the year; and
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offers ongoing support and advocacy.
The exciting task of the College Counseling Office is to remain alert to the issues and trends facing our students, provide clarity about the pressures of the college process, and support each student in their college search. We are confident that all students will come through the process feeling that they have succeeded and have a range of options. We feel most fortunate to work with you.
Warm regards,
Kelly Herrington DIRECTOR OF COLLEGE COUNSELING
2 COLLEGE COUNSELING AT UNIVERSITY PREP 2021–2022
