Lancaster Country Day School’s college advisors work to help students identify colleges and universities that are best suited for their talents, interests, aspirations, and needs. The advisors are actively involved in many facets of the application process and provide support for both students and parents.
The college advising process actually begins well before the application process does. The college counselors meet with parents of Middle School students in informal sessions, book review discussions, and course selection programs. Students become involved as they choose courses and encounter other topics of interest such as specific schools, college visits, or testing. Freshmen use Cialfo and other tools as they proceed through a process of self-discovery and study skill development; sophomores use similar resources to explore careers and participate in Intern Day.
The college counseling process naturally becomes more focused in the junior year. Student surveys, information from parents, and family conferences identify goals, interests, and strengths. Students are encouraged to visit colleges during the spring and summer months. Most students register to take SAT and ACT tests in the junior year as well. During the summer these rising seniors complete the Common Application as practice for filling out actual applications in the fall of their senior year.
In the senior year the process continues with frequent meetings between students and college advisors. Advisors and Upper School teachers write letters of recommendation and offer suggestions for revision of application essays. Guidance is extensive and thorough. With such concerted efforts, it is no wonder that one hundred percent of Lancaster Country Day School graduates go on to four-year colleges and universities, including some of the most selective ones in the country.