College Counseling at PHA

In keeping with Prospect Hill Academy’s mission to prepare each student for success in college, the college counseling office offers students the structure, information, and support to understand and successfully navigate the college selection, application, and financial aid processes.

 

Starting in 10th grade, and again in 11th, students take the PSAT exam, in order to familiarize themselves with the test style and format and to establish a projected SAT performance. Students who require additional academic support meet with their advisor to establish personal goals and implement study strategies to promote future success. Ninth and tenth grade families are encouraged to attend the college-focused evening FAB meeting that informs families about the college application process, financial aid, and how to help their child prepare for college. Students in grade 10 will also receive college prep information through specially designed Advisory lessons, delivered by a college counselor in semester one.

 

Juniors and seniors meet with a college counselor in small groups once a week during College and Career Readiness, a class that focuses on key elements of the college process, including essay and resume writing, interviewing skills, financial aid, and goal setting. Students are encouraged to visit college campuses and will be provided opportunities to attend scheduled visits and college fairs as opportunities arise. In the spring of junior year, students are assigned an individual college counselor and begin their individual essay writing process. Students are required to continue working on their college essays over the summer. To prepare students for success on the SAT, Prospect Hill Academy incorporates an SAT preparation unit into the junior College and Career Readiness class, complemented by Khan Academy. Juniors are expected to spend time practicing outside of school as well, and are encouraged to take the March SAT test. Students will then have a conversation with their college counselor about taking the SAT one additional time, in May, June, August, or October.

 

In their senior year students are guided through the college process on a one-on-one basis with their college counselor. Students complete college applications and financial aid applications and make final decisions about their post-PHA plans. Caregivers are seen as key contributors to this process and are encouraged to arrange individual appointments with their child’s college counselor to discuss the college application process throughout the year.

 

Please contact Erin McElligott, Director of College and School Counseling 7-12, at [email protected] or 617-284-7923 with any questions, comments or concerns about the college counseling process.

Erin McElligott Director of College and School Counseling, 7-12 [email protected] 617-284-7923	Leo Costa College Counselor [email protected] 617-284-7922	Devan Martin College Counselor [email protected] 617-284-7933