College Counseling

Finding the Right Fit

“Aim High” and “Balance” are guiding principles for Derryfield’s College Counseling program. The college search and application process is one that is ripe with opportunity for self-discovery and growth. We encourage students to identify their strengths and interests and to develop skills of self-advocacy and independence. We work individually with students and their families to think big, plan ahead, and find a college fit that will meet their wants and needs. Every fall, over a hundred colleges and universities visit Derryfield’s campus to meet the young men and women who will bring intellectual engagement, positive citizenship, and unique talents to their school communities. Each student has a story to tell and we help them find and share their voice.

SMARTTRACK® College Funding

Fast Facts

The College Process

Below is an outline of general dates for the college planning journey.

Ninth Grade

Develop good study habits
Get involved! Learn about extracurricular activities – many colleges consider talent, commitment, and leadership
Develop a 4-year academic plan with advisor and grade level curriculum coordinator
If you have excelled at a specific sport and think you will want to play at the college level, meet with the college office to plan for the recruiting process.

Tenth Grade

Take the PSAT (given to all sophomores/juniors in October);
Update 4-year academic plan with advisor and grade level curriculum coordinator
Begin to visit some college campuses when traveling
Consider engaging in test preparation during the summer

Eleventh Grade

Take the PSAT in October
Visit with college representatives in College Office in the fall during free periods
Make college visits on non-school days
Research college choices – use the resources in the College Counseling Office and SCOIR
Register to take the ACT/SAT
Attend weekend and evening workshops on college planning for students and parents in October and April
Explore SAT/ACT review courses/tutoring
Take ACT (with writing)/or SAT. It is recommended to take these standardized tests in the late winter or in the spring before the school year ends
Review 4 year academic plan, graduation and college entrance requirements
Begin scholarship searches
Complete student and parent questionnaires
Attend the Financial Aid Workshop
Complete the Transcript Release/Waiver Form for NCAA if you are considering Division I or II sports at the college level
Attend local college fairs
Approach two teachers in the spring for letters of recommendation and submit request through SCOIR
During the summer, work on college essays and continue college visits

Twelfth Grade

Attend end of summer College Counseling Retreat
Revise college list in SCOIR
Parents attend September meeting for question/answer session with the college counselors
Visit with college representatives at Derryfield during the fall
Finalize list of colleges to apply to by December 1
If necessary, register for the SAT/ACT and retake before January 1
Submit the FAFSA for Financial Aid after October 1 to meet college application deadlines
Register online for the “CSS/Financial Aid Profile,” if required by college. This is a supplement to the FAFSA that is required by some colleges.

Oh the Places You’ll Go

Explore at which colleges and universities the Class of 2025 has matriculated.

Meet the College Counseling Team

Rebecca Kosakowski

Jill Teeters

Amanda Gagne

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