Program Overview

Wooster School’s college guidance process begins in the eighth grade with an Open House and information session. This is an informal fall gathering designed to introduce eighth graders and their parents to the multiple aspects of the college search.

Freshmen begin to set goals and select courses appropriate to their future plans. In addition, the student and their parent(s) participate in fall and spring interactive workshops that offer pointers on how to navigate the Upper School experience.

Sophomores and juniors sit for the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT). During the month of January, the College Guidance Department hosts weekly dinners for sophomores and their parent(s) to discuss hot topics and future trends within college admissions. Sophomores also complete an extensive, written self-evaluation that challenges them to think more intuitively about who they are as an individual, their personalities, goals, and aspirations.

Intensive college guidance begins in the spring of junior year, when students engage in a nine week college counseling seminar that addresses: the admissions interview; the college search; creating the college list; the resume; transcripts; standardized testing; the college essay; further self-evaluation; and, teacher recommendations. During the spring, the College Guidance Department hosts an annual college fair and interviewing session. During the first half of the event, juniors engage in one-on-one mock interviews with designated college representatives. This initial evaluative experience provides an opportunity for our students to converse, briefly, about their academic journey and extracurricular activities, and receive constructive feedback and helpful tips on their interviewing skills. Juniors and their parent(s) also participate in a Junior Parent Program which consists of a mock admissions committee presentation, college essay writing workshop, and a financial aid presentation, all led by senior college admissions officers.

As they enter their senior year, students finalize their college lists and prepare the actual applications. Throughout the process, students receive support, advice and encouragement. Guidance, rather than placement, is the focus of Wooster college counseling.

In addition to experienced personnel, the Wooster College Guidance Department offers extensive materials and resources, including software and brochures. Each year representatives from over 100 colleges visit the campus to meet directly with interested students.

The Department also hosts evening information events such as the College Guidance Speaker Series for the entire community. Parent conferences are encouraged to foster communication and exchange of ideas. The College Guidance Handbook, which is given to each junior, provides a step-by-step guide for applying to college.