January 13, 2022
Dear Upper School Families,
I hope you had a fantastic Christmas break!
The new year is an exciting time in College Counseling. Unlike most of the school, our office really starts anew in January. Our Seniors will finish their few remaining applications by the end of this month and move on from their college applications to their senior thesis. I will continue to meet with seniors as needed to help with their final decisions.
Juniors will soon begin working on their application documents. Be on the look out for an email about starting the Letters of Recommendation process in the next few weeks. We will also begin brainstorming for the Common App Essay. This year is all about preparation: compiling application materials and documents, preparing and taking standardized tests, so that come August the application packet is ready to send.
Sophomores and Freshmen should continue their focus on their academics. College Counseling will partner with Academic Advising to begin setting up meetings with Sophomores this spring, and Freshman group meetings begin next week.
I am often asked what a student, particularly those in 9 & 10th grade, can be doing in terms of College Counseling. The most important thing any student can do for their college application is to focus on their academics. A strong high school transcript that shows growth and rigor is key to a strong college application. Junior year is particularly important, as it is the last full year of academics the colleges will see.
I am always available to meet if you would like to discuss individual strategies for your college preparation!
All the best,
Randa Johnson
Director of College Counseling
