Process Essay: The Most Successful College Counseling Process

The college process is a rite of passage that marks a high school student’s first step into the rest of his or her life. Like any other transition in life it can sometimes feel daunting or overwhelming but I encourage students to focus on the exciting possibilities and choices that lay before them and work through the process in an organized and systematic way that helps them to feel in control of their future. While some of the logistical elements of applying to college begin in 11th or 12th grades I believe that the process itself starts much earlier as students determine who they are as learners and school citizens through academic, extracurricular and personal exploration. We have regularly scheduled classes and meetings with students in the 11th and 12th grade but our office has an open door policy and all Portledge students and families are welcome to visit, ask questions, or schedule a meeting at any time. …show more content…
Equally important is consideration of campus environment, community and culture as they will have a significant impact on your experience and success in college. These reflections, explorations, discoveries and discussions are part of a process that includes truthful soul searching, sincere introspection, intense research, on-site visits and thoughtful conversations; this is not a test or assignment you cram for overnight. The College Counseling team at Portledge is here to support students throughout their high school experience as they grow and uncover more of their strengths, interests and preferences. Our college counseling process fully supports the Portledge School vision of “inspiring students to realize their individual potential by developing the critical thinking skills and moral courage necessary for life-long learning in an increasingly complex