College Counseling

The goal of Calhoun's college counseling program is to have each graduate attend the college or university best suited to that student.

The counseling process is designed both as an individualized and group experience. Calhoun's Director of College Counseling maintains communication with a broad array of colleges and universities; coordinates visits to Calhoun with representatives from numerous colleges and universities; and keeps an up-to-date college reference library, including information on financial aid. Equally important, because of the small size of the junior and senior classes, the Director has the opportunity to become familiar with each and every Calhoun student, guiding the students through the process with their strengths in mind and their interests at heart.

Note that seniors are granted specific "college visiting days" in the fall of senior year. Permission may be granted for additional excused absence with advanced approval from faculty and the director of college counseling. Students should visit the College Counseling office for the college approval form and instructions, if any.

College Seminar

Each February, the Director of College Counseling begins an ongoing seminar for juniors. One period each week is devoted to discussions of issues that frequently arise during the early stage in the college process.  The junior class is divided into sections so that each group is of reasonable size, allowing for an informal structure conducive to discussion, questions and answers.  The seminar continues until the first of May; it resumes in September of the senior year and continues through December.  At this stage, issues of more immediate and specific nature are addressed (e.g. pointers about the college interview and the application essay; arranging for teacher recommendation letters).  Also discussed are the nuts-and-bolts of the application process: the importance of meeting deadlines, reporting test scores to colleges, and what forms to submit (and when) to colleges.  Because of the College Seminar, the counselor's one-on-one meetings with students become more fruitful; she is able to identify swiftly students' individual concerns and needs.  The Director of College Counseling also meets with parents, who are involved throughout the process.

Also see:

Introduction to the College Process
The College Handbook -- a step-by-step guide