SPA’s college counseling program encourages students to explore the opportunities for higher education that will best meet their goals. Under the guidance of two full-time college counselors, SPA students identify personal talents and interests and discover a range of colleges that match and engage those interests. In so doing, students gain important skills in self-reflection, critical thinking, communication, and decision-making.
An individualized program of college counseling begins in the junior year. Students and parents attend informational meetings in the fall as they embark on the process of individual reflection and open-minded exploration to identify college options. The meetings also cover the steps and procedures necessary to the college admission process. Throughout junior year, students meet with the college counselors in small group settings to gain knowledge and tools for the college search process. In January, a formal College Evening kick-off event features guest speakers and discussion groups for both students and parents. Starting in February, individual appointments with a college counselor build the foundation for a strong advising relationship that continues into senior year. As students finalize and submit college applications, the college counselors prepare and send supportive materials including a comprehensive school report and recommendation. Virtually all SPA graduates enroll in selective colleges and universities across the country and around the world.
The college counselors annually offer various programs to provide valuable information to both students and parents, including: a financial aid workshop, an application essay-writing presentation, and a college fair with more than 150 colleges represented, sponsored in partnership with area independent schools. College materials, guidebooks, test preparation tools, and much more are available in the College Counseling Resource Center. Representatives from about 100 colleges visit SPA to meet with interested students every fall. The college counselors present information about standardized testing (PSAT, SAT and Subject Tests, ACT and AP) as well as advice about course selection when appropriate, and are a resource for students of all grade levels and for parents.