the summit country day school college counseling handbook

college counseling handbook

2

Support Information Encouragement

The Summit Country Day School College Counseling Team

Maureen Ferrell Director of College Counseling

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ferrell_msummitcdsorg

Laci Tucker College Counselor

5138714700 x364

tucker_lsummitcdsorg

Mike Fee Guidance Counselor

Grades 9-12

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fee_msummitcdsorg

Susan MaxwellCollege Counseling

Administrative Assistant

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maxwell_ssummitcdsorg

3

The Summit Country Day School College Counseling Handbook

Welcome

College Counseling at The Summit is a partner-ship that brings families and college counselors together to educate support and encourage stu-dents as their college search unfolds With this approach comes the belief that the family is ultimately responsible for the key decisions and actions necessary to move this process forward

Summitrsquos college counselors are paired with faculty advisors This collaboration ensures each student beginning in the ninth grade has a support team at school Advisors serve as a communication link with college counselors throughout the school year

In the past few years Naviance has become an essential tool used in our department Naviance is a college and career readiness software pro-vider that partners with high schools providing students a variety of features including college research and matching tools career assessment and personality tests Each Summit student and parent receives a username and password upon enrollment Families can connect with Naviance on their personal computer

Exploring the range of post-secondary opportu-nities can be overwhelming College counselors are accessible to students and parents throughout the college search We are open and positive providing an atmosphere that encourages fac-ulty students and parents to take advantage of the available resources Summitrsquos counselors stay abreast of current trends within college admission and are attuned to pedagogical issues regarding adolescent development

The College Counseling department represents Summit and articulates the schoolrsquos mission and values to colleges so that they understand the Summit school experience In turn the depart-ment represents the college admission landscape to The Summit community

mdashMaureen Ferrell

Director of College Counseling

Index

Welcome 3

Planning Calendar 4

College Application 9

How It All Works 10 Athletes 11

Testing 12 College Visit 16

What to Ask 18 The Interview 21 Financial Aid 23

Resources 28

Websites 30

copy 2013 The Summit Country Day School

4

Plan Your Work Work Your PlanCollege Counseling Planning Calendar Freshman Yearbull Take the most challenging coursework offered and do well in those classes Remember

colleges and universities look at your freshman year gradesbull Get to know the college counseling staff they are great resources They will help you un-

derstand your GPA choose coursework activities and help you to balance your academics with outside interests

bull Attend Upper School evening programs with your parents See school calendar for datesbull Become engaged in The Summit and larger community Find extra-curricular groups of

interest Itrsquos completely OK to go to one meeting and decide itrsquos not for you Colleges want to see quality over quantity and want to see you are passionate about what you do

bull Explore your talents and take advantage of opportunities to join a club play a sport and participate in art music theater etc

bull Organize your time and adopt good study skillsbull In October take the PSAT (Preliminary SAT) Review your score report along with your test book

to learn your strengths and weaknesses as you prepare to repeat this test your sophomore yearbull Take the PLAN (Pre-ACT) in the spring to help determine your strengths and weaknesses

as you prepare to take the ACT in the futurebull Consider taking the SAT Subject Test Math Level 1 after Algebra II Please note Some col-

leges require suggest or recommend sending SAT Subject Test scores for admission Summer Assignment Plan worthwhile summer activities such as college programs volunteer work a specialty focused camp or a summer job

Naviance Activity bull Investigate your learning style bull Explore your career interests

ldquoIf I had offered just one piece of advice for incoming freshman Irsquod say go meet the peo-ple in the college counseling office mdash not like a formal meeting about college search but as a general meeting to say like lsquoHi Irsquom Alex I like technologyrsquo Theyrsquoll look at you and say this kid likes technology and theyrsquoll look at colleges with you in mind and make recommendations There is a very personal connection with the college counselors here at The Summitrdquomdash Alex Marcellus rsquo13 Purdue University

ldquoStart planning as soon as the common application and individual essay topics are

announced During the summer when you are bored with nothing to do start writing outlines for the essays It will make your life a lot easier during the fall of your senior

yearrdquomdash Warren Hill rsquo13 Hampton University

5


College Counseling Planning Calendar Sophomore Yearbull Continue to take the most difficult coursework available to you and keep up the good work

and grades Continue to explore your academic interestsbull Continue involvement in volunteer and extra-curricular activities Find ways to give back to

The Summit and larger community Accept leadership rolesbull Continue building a relationship with your college counselor Your counselor will help you

become more familiar with the college process bull Attend Upper School evening programs with your parents See school calendar for datesbull In October take the PSAT (Preliminary SAT) Review your score report along with your test

book to learn your strengths and weaknesses as you prepare to repeat this test your junior year

bull Begin to build a college file by gathering materials about colleges of interest Use school vacations to visit college campuses Journal your impressions of colleges upon return from visiting

bull Take AP exams for courses you may have taken at the AP levelbull Take SAT Subject Tests that are appropriate Please note Some colleges require suggest or

recommend sending SAT Subject Test scores for admission

Summer Assignment Plan worthwhile summer activities such as college programs internships volunteer work a specialty focused camp a summer job Find out what interests you or better yet what yoursquore not interested in

Naviance activitiesbull Develop your personal resume recording activities and accomplishments bull Begin a prospective college listbull Complete the ldquoDo What You Arerdquo assessment

ldquoI started early I thought about what kinds of schools I wanted and did a little research on what it took to get in I began to

go to college visits in my sophomore yearrdquomdash Isabelle Saldana rsquo13 Emory University

ldquoPractice interviewing It really helps to have a good interview so the person representing the college likes you and therefore can be a good resource ie recommendations contacts questionsrdquo mdashDale Lakes rsquo13 US Military Academy at West Point

6

College Counseling Planning Calendar Junior Yearbull Continue to take the most difficult coursework available to you and keep up the good work and

grades Continue to explore your academic interestsbull Continue involvement in volunteer and extra-curricular activities Find ways to give back to The

Summit and larger community Accept leadership rolesbull Continue developing your relationship with your college counselor They will help you become

more familiar with the college process Attend evening programs with your parentsbull Sign up and attend college visits during the school day and local College Fairs This is a great way to

begin the college search and just take a look at schools of possible interest Attend regional college presentations Summit hosts a few each year

bull Take the PSAT in October This test determines National Merit recognition This test will help deter-mine your strengths and weaknesses as you prepare for the SAT

bull Register and take the SAT (December) and ACT (January) Please refer to The Summitrsquos College Counseling web pages for links to updated testing dates and online registration

bull If you intend to seek an athletic scholarship start contacting the coaches at the schools that most interest you Complete the online NCAA Eligibility Center registration

bull Use school vacations to visit college campuses Look for tours on your individual college websites and sign up for them

bull Schedule an individual meeting for you and your parents with their college counselor in the winter for college planning

bull Think about teachers to ask for recommendation letters bull Using information provided in Naviance note any early action or early decision deadlines at each

college of choicebull Using information in Naviance develop a timeline for college and scholarship application dead-

linesbull Take AP exams for courses you may have taken at the AP levelbull Take SAT Subject Tests that are appropriate Please note Some colleges require suggest or recom-

mend sending SAT Subject Test scores for admissionbull In August the Common Application (the application for about 400 colleges) becomes available Itrsquos

a good idea to start early and look through the different schools you are applying to see what is required of you

Summer Assignments bull Plan worthwhile summer activities such as college programs internships volunteer work

a specialty focused camp or a summer job Find out what interests you or better yet what yoursquore not interested in

bull Draft your college essay personal statement and other essays you will need to submit

Naviance Activities bull Sign up to attend college rep visits information sessionsbull Continue adding to your personal resume recording activities and accomplishments bull Complete the ldquoGame Plan Surveyrdquo which helps you think about what you seek in college

(location size specific programs competitiveness)

7


College Counseling Planning Calendar Senior Yearbull Continue to take the most difficult coursework available to you and keep up the good work


The Summit and larger community Accept leadership rolesbull Continue developing your relationship with your college counselor They will help you with

all aspects the college application process Attend evening programs with your parentsbull Sign up and attend college visits during the school day and local College Fairs This is a great

way to continue the college search and just take a look at schools of possible interest Attend regional college presentations Summit hosts a few each year

bull Visit colleges of major interest Plan an overnight in the dorm if possiblebull Meet with your college counselor to narrow list of schools discuss deadlines application

types and financial aid opportunities

AugustSeptemberbull Submit drafts of college application essays to your college

counselor to review for editingbull Make an appointment with your college counselor to re-

view your online college application before submissionbull Register for any additionally needed SAT or ACT tests

Please refer to The Summitrsquos College Counseling web pages for links to updated testing dates and online registration

bull Register for and take SAT Subject Tests that are appropri-ate Please Note Some colleges require suggest or recom-mend sending SAT Subject Test scores for admission Make sure you send your scores directly to your college or university

bull Send ACT andor SAT scores directly to colleges

October bull Finalize your application for early actionearly decision

schools Submit prior to deadline to ensure all parts are sent and received

November bull Finalize regular applications and submit before Thanksgiving

January bull Complete the FASFA (financial aid form) online If required complete the CSSFinancial Aid

profile Most colleges require these forms to be submitted between January 15 and February 1 to receive a financial decision with your acceptance letter

MarchApril bull Visit schools where yoursquove been admitted attend classes meet admissions office staff and

figure out the best school fit for you

8

College Counseling Planning Timeline Senior Year May bull May 1 is National Candidate Reply Day Most colleges will require you to accept or decline

their offer of admission by this date Write to inform and thank colleges whose offers you did not accept Write thank you notes to teachers who wrote letters of recommendation

bull Complete the Future Plans survey in Naviance bull Take AP exams for courses you may have taken at the AP level Make sure you send your

scores directly to your college or university

June bull Graduate

JulyAugust bull Relax begin packing for college and correspond with

your roommates bull Attend orientation at your college or university

Naviance Activities bull Link student Common Application account with their Naviance accountbull Sign up for and attend college rep meetingsinformation sessions at Summit Country Day

Schoolbull Finalize ldquoColleges Irsquom Applying tordquo list ensuring transcripts and other supporting docu-

ments are sent bull Ask faculty members for recommendations and make requests in Naviance bull In May complete the Future Plans survey

ldquoKeep your mind open to any school and give them a chance Some people may have opinions but go ahead and judge from your own

experiences And start your essays earlyrdquomdash Adam Chow rsquo13 Georgia Institute of Technology

ldquoI went to Rhode Island School of Design first and attended their open house and student welcome Yale was nearby When Yale had their Bulldog Days I went In the end it came down to this Because I went to this amazing school that rounded me and let me explore all my interests Irsquom not just an art kid I took cal-culus and Irsquom interested in physics Yale was the place where I could do all the things that I loverdquomdash Meg Mathile rsquo13 Yale University

9


Understanding Your College ApplicationBy mid to late fall of the senior year you should reduce the college exploration list to schools to which you plan to apply The application list should only include colleges you would gladly attend if admitted There are several application options including

Early Action Under Early Action students apply for admission in the fall of the senior year and the college notifies the student of the admission decision before calendar year-end This is a non-binding process which means the applicant is not obligated to attend the college if accepted Unlike Early Deci-sion Early Action still allows students to receive other admission decisions from the regular application process before making a final college choice Early Action Single Choice or Restricted Early Action Like Early Action students apply for admission ear-ly in the senior fall and receive the decision in December While the applicant is not obligated to enroll in the college if admitted the opportunity to apply to other colleges is limited Your College Counselor will help you interpret the process for each college

Early Decision Early Decision is an application option in which an applicant agrees that if admitted he or she will enroll in the college Students also agree that they will not upon acceptance initiate appli-cations to any other college and will withdraw any outstanding applications Early Decision deadlines can range from November 1 to January 15 Some colleges offer more than one Early Decision deadline If accepted your admission is binding Early Decision candidates can only review one financial aid offer If the offer is insufficient most schools will release you from the binding contract Early Decision is only appropriate for those students who are absolutely certain of their first college choiceRegular Admission Most students apply for Regular Admission Regular Admission deadlines range from December 15th until March 1st with the majority due in January Colleges notify most Regular Admission applicants of the admission decision by early to mid-April Admission under this option is not binding Regular Admission is best for students who want to consider a selection of schools and several financial aid offers before making a final decision

Rolling Admission Under Rolling Admission colleges make admission decisions shortly (six to eight weeks) after receiving the application and the students are notified immediately In some cases if the ad-mission office wishes to compare the applicant to later applicants an application may be held and con-sidered again at a later date For colleges that offer Rolling Admission it is best to apply well before the final deadline because spaces will fill Once full a college will not be able to consider new applications

In addition to these primary application plans there are other less used application options

Deferred Enrollment Under this option an admitted student is permitted to postpone enrolling in the college for one year in order to pursue alternate plans

Open Admissions These colleges accept all applicants who apply and often admit the student and register the student for classes at the same time

10

How It All Works At every college your academic record will be the most important information considered in your application Some factors that affect the admission decision are within your control such as contri-butions to school and community leadership personality essay quality and the interview Other factors that are out of your control ndash such as institutional priorities the role of legacies diversity and developing winning athletic teams ndash all of which can influence the outcome of your applica-tion

The Academic Profile Includes courses Grade Point Average (GPA) and test scores (SAT Reasoning Test ACT and Subject Tests) The Academic Profile rates the candidate as a student and measures academic achievements and abilities to date It supplies evidence to measure whether the applicant can meet enjoy and contribute to the type of academic challenge of a particular college

The Personal Profile Balances the academic profile and includes extracurricular activities essays and perhaps an interview The Personal Profile documents the applicantrsquos interests extracurricular commitments leadership and personality It helps the admissions representative know the appli-cant more personally

Supporting Documents Serves to bring the two profiles together verifying and balancing the applicantrsquos information This part of the application consists of the secondary school report college counselorrsquos recommendation teacher recommendations (occasionally personal or peer recommen-dation) and additional supplementary materials

Completing Your Application At The Summit we advise applications be completed before Days of Grace and Wisdom which happen annually right before Thanksgiving The applicantrsquos responsibility is to follow each applicationrsquos instructions The College Counselors will provide guidance through-out the process answering general and specific questions

We canrsquot stress this enough Meeting deadlines is imperative

Students request teacher recommendations a minimum of six weeks before the deadline Once all supporting documents are ready they will be sent electronically by Mrs Nethers to each collegeuniversity listed in your Naviance account Please rememberbull Follow the application instructions closelybull Secure all necessary information before you begin to work on the applicationbull Start early If you procrastinate until two or three weeks before the deadline it will probably

show you may create the impression that you arenrsquot really interestedbull Organize your college application materials Keep a separate file for each collegebull Abide by the Golden Rule of College Admissions Donrsquot file an application for admission to a

college which you would not gladly attend if offered the chance If you follow this rule you will make good decisions about colleges (Taken from NACAC A Guide to the College Admission Process NACAC Publications)

bull Print your completed application for proofreading before you hit the ldquosendrdquo buttonbull Print a copy of each final application for your records

11


For AthletesStudents who are planning to participate in Division I or Division II athletics must be certified by the NCAA Eligibility Center Meeting The Summitrsquos graduation requirements will more than fulfill the NCAA core course unit requirements Begin the certification process during the second semester of your junior year Once you have received your second semesterrsquos grades you may submit your Records Release Form (found in the College Counseling Office) to the NCAA Eligibility Center for certification Do not forget to contact the appropriate testing agency to request official SATACT scores re-ports be sent to the Eligibility Center Their code is 9999Link to Eligibility Center wwweligibilitycenterorg

The 11 Division I athletes and one Division II athlete in the Class of 2014 L to R Daniel Bruns Marist University football Michael Barwick Jr Indiana University football Alex Vance University of Dayton football Antonio Woods University of Pennsylvania basketball Meredith Schertzinger University of Alabama at Birmingham soccer Mia Schreibeis Winthrop University soccer Bryce Hueber University of Dayton soccer Addie Englehart Wright State University soccer Ellie Adams St Louis University cross countrytrack Sophie Adams St Louis University cross countrytrack Rebecca Stromberg Belmont Abbey College lacrosse and Christian Hay University of Cincinnati soccer

12

Standardized TestingAlong with an examination of your academic program and grades colleges also examine the results of standardized testing Most colleges continue to require the SAT or ACT and most competitive colleges also require the SAT subject tests The SAT is designed to test your critical thinking skills in both the verbal and quantitative areas Some colleges place more emphasis on standardized testing than others while there are a number of highly selective colleges that are ldquoTest Optionalrdquo Some colleges understand that very able students donrsquot always test well and determine their true academic achievement and potential by examining their strong academic record rather than relying on a morningrsquos testing experience Colleges interpret standardized tests in a variety of ways which are discussed in individual meetings with The Summitrsquos college counselors but here is an overview of the tests Please refer to The Summitrsquos college counseling website for upcoming test dates fees and registration deadlines

Preliminary Scholastic AptitudeNational Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSATNMSQT)The PSAT is given at The Summit to all freshmen sophomores and juniors in October This is a two-hour and ten minute examination designed to measure verbal mathematical and writing ability Scores range from 20 to 80 on each section This is used as a practice test to acquaint you with the kinds of questions on the SAT Reasoning Test Scores are reported to you and to Summit and used as predictors of later scores on the SAT Reasoning Test Based on these pre-dictions you will be aided in determining a plan of preparing for future testing The results of this test for juniors are used to select National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalists and Com-mended Students Those students receiving these honors are notified in the fall of their senior year

SAT Reasoning Tests and SAT Subject TestsAdministered by the College Board The SAT Test is divided into three parts Critical Reading Mathematics and Writing Skills This test lasts three hours and 45 minutes The SAT Subject Tests as the name indicates are subject-specific The score range for the SAT Reasoning Test and SAT Subject Tests range from 200 to a high of 800 Some very selective colleges require or recommend that students submit results from two or three Subject Tests in addition to scores from SAT Reasoning Tests for admission or placement Of the colleges that require this test most ask for a math Subject Test plus one or two subjects of your choosing You must check online information and application requirements

Students who apply for Early Decision or Early Action should plan to take the SAT Reasoning Test and the requisite number of Subject Tests in their junior year Subject Tests are best tak-en in the same year that you complete the academic course in that subject area Registration dates about five weeks prior to test administration Students are responsible for meeting all registration deadlines Students receive scores about four weeks after the test date Unless stu-dents enroll in Score Choice all of your SAT and SAT subject tests scores will be sent to colleges

13


ACTThis is a three-hour test that measures skills in four major curriculum areas English Mathematics Reading and Science You must check with each individual college to see if they require the ACT plus a Writing test Summitrsquos recommendation is that you take the ACT with the Writing test The ACT score range has a composite score range of 1 ndash 36 and each test sub-section has a score range of 1 ndash 36 With the ACT you can take this test more than once and choose which scores get sent to col-leges Students who apply for Early Decision or Early Action should take the ACT in their junior year Registration dates for these tests are about five weeks prior to test administration Register at wwwactorg Test scores are reported about four weeks after the test date

Advanced Placement Tests (AP)AP examinations are given in May with specific dates set by College Board These are three-hour col-lege-level subject tests used by many colleges for placement and credit Save your AP Score Reports if you plan to self-report your scores on your college application You are the only one who will send these scores to colleges though higher levels of performance (scores of 4 or 5) may be cited by teachers or college counselors within the written recommendations that are part of the application process

Testing AccommodationsThe College Board and ACT may provide testing accommodations to students who have a docu-mented disability (Learning Disability ADHD or Health Impairment) This diagnosis must not be older than three years coming from educational testing performed by a psychologist The accom-modations for students at Summit have generally been given in the form of extended time Other accommodations are available If you feel you may qualify for testing accommodations or wish to discuss the procedure to document a disability please contact Upper School Counselor Mike Fee

Sending Scores to CollegesStudents are responsible for sending your test scores to colleges to which you choose to apply When you are ready to report your scores for the SAT Reasoning Test SAT Subject Tests or ACT you should you should make a list of colleges to which you want your scores sent Upon contacting the testing agency (College Board or ACT) they will send your scores There will be a fee for each test score sent The Summit Country Day Schoolrsquos Code Number (CEEB) is 361120

14

What to Expect on Test DayACT Formatbull The English test is a 75-question 45-minute test that measures understanding of

sentence structure grammar and usage sentence structure and rhetorical skillsbull The Math test is a 60-question 60-minute test designed to assess Arithmetic Alge-

bra Geometry and Trigonometry skills You may use a calculator check wwwact-studentorg for details

bull The Reading test is a 40-question 35-minute test measuring reading comprehen-sion Specific questions will ask you to refer to what is stated and use reasoning to determine the meaning Passages are based on Prose Fiction Social Science Hu-manities and Natural Sciences

bull The Science test is a 40-question 35-minute test that measures the interpretation analysis evaluation reasoning and problem-solving skills required in Natural Sci-ences

bull The Writing test is a 30-minute essay test that measures your writing skills You are asked to write a response to a question about your position on the issue presented in the writing prompt

SAT Formatbull The Writing test is a 60-minute 49-question and one-essay test combination You

will have 25 minutes to compose your response to the given prompt You will have 25 minutes to answer 35 questions identifying sentence errors improve sentences and paragraphs You will have 10 minutes to answer 14 questions relating to im-proving sentences

bull The Critical Reading test is a 67-question 70-minute test that measures your ability to complete sentences and comprehend short and long reading passages

bull The Math test is a 54-question 70-minute test designed to assess Arithmetic Alge-bra I and II and Geometry skills You may use a calculator check wwwsatcollegeboardcom for details

bull The Experimental test is 25 minutes in length and questions vary from test to test Questions are tested for future use Your answers are not calculated in your score report

PLEASE NOTE The 25-minute Essay Section will always come first and the 10-minute Writing Section will always come last All other sections can be in any order and will vary not only from test date to test date but also from student to student

15


A tool forcomparing

scores

AC TndashS AT C oncordance S tudy J une 2008

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

16001540ndash15901490ndash15301440ndash14801400ndash14301360ndash13901330ndash13501290ndash13201250ndash12801210ndash12401170ndash12001130ndash11601090ndash11201050ndash10801020ndash1040

980ndash1010940ndash970900ndash930860ndash890820ndash850770ndash810720ndash760670ndash710620ndash660560ndash610510ndash550

800800

770ndash790730ndash760710ndash720690ndash700660ndash680640ndash650620ndash630

610590ndash600570ndash580550ndash560530ndash540510ndash520480ndash500

470450ndash460430ndash440410ndash420390ndash400


AC TC ompos ite

S c ore

S AT S c oreC ritical R eading +

Math(S core R ange)

AC T S c oreC ombined

E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310


Math (S ingle S core)

S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)

ACT mdash SATConcordance

constructs The ACT measures achievement related to high school curricula while the SAT measures general verbal and quantitative reasoning ACT and the College Board (producers of the SAT) have completed a concordance study that is designed to examine the relationship between two scores on the ACT and SAT These concordance tables do not equate scores but

concordance tables and guidelines for proper use on our website at wwwactorgaapconcordance

16

The College VisitVisiting a college campus is often the most important information-gathering tool in the search It provides an excellent opportunity to determine a collegersquos fit for you

The junior year is a good time to begin visiting colleges Starting too early can cause burn-out in the college search process College websites provide information that will help stu-dents prioritize the colleges they would like to visit in person

When visiting a college campus there are several options to consider Let us stress that there is no wrong choice and each option has merit

Spring Visits During spring break you will find most colleges in the midst of their applica-tion reading process and admission officers will be busy Be prepared to see offices staffed by skeleton crew with campus visits limited to tours and group information sessions

Summer Visits Although yoursquoll not see the campus with the students in action both you and the admissions office have more time to devote to your visit It is often easier to sched-ule an interview with an admission counselor in the summer Today many colleges become summer conference facilities often the campuses are active Although most of the summer programs do not reflect the campus life during of the academic year summer visits will give you enough information to assess your interest in the school

Fall Visits Many families prefer fall campus visits when college is in session Admission of-fices may be understaffed in the fall because officers are on the road recruiting It is most important to call early for fall visit appointments to make sure an admission representative is available to see you

Visit after being accepted Some students visit campuses after they have received all their admission decisions when many colleges offer special ldquoadmitted student weekend pro-gramsrdquo You will have the opportunity to stay overnight in a dorm eat the schoolrsquos food attend a class or two and get to know some other students who may also be attending the school as freshmen next year

Begin your visits close to home the greater Cincinnati area has many outstanding schools of all sizes and varieties urban suburban rural large and small schools You might begin your campus visits with an Ohio school that fits your exploration criteria Go on these visits with an open mind you might find a place that is right for you

17


Tips for Making the Most of your Visitbull If you will miss school notify your teachers in advance by completing the College Visit form avail-

able online or in the College Counseling office

bull Review the college website and any information the school has sent

bull Develop a list of questions to ask the admissions officers and students particularly important if you have an admissions interview

bull Depending on your interests you may also want to arrange for meetings with people such as coaches or professors If you do request additional appointments prepare a separate list of ques-tions for those meetings

bull We recommend no more than two college visits in a day College visits are more work than you may think

bull Arrange your schedule so you are able to attend everything the information sessions tours and interviews

bull Remember to make a reservation about two weeks prior to when yoursquod like to visit Most col-leges prefer you make this reservation online

bull Secure good directions to the schoolrsquos campus and admissions office Confirm the location of ad-missions parking ahead of time

bull Inquire about the possibility of observing classes Most admissions offices are happy to provide a list of classes pre-approved for visitors

bull Observe class sizes facilities and teaching styles Ask about the accessibility of faculty

bull Make sure you see a dorm room similar to the one in which you will live your first year

bull Eat a meal in the dining facilities Inquire about meal plan options

bull Talk to as many students as possible Also check the bulletin boards for campus news and pick up a campus newspaper as it will tell you about campus life

bull If financial aid is a consideration families may want to meet with and ask questions of a finan-cial aid officer Many admission counselors are also well versed in financial aid and will be able to answer questions Make this appointment ahead of time

bull Take notes If you visit several schools during a short period of time you may have difficulty re-membering the differences Use the time in the car to record your impressions or keep a journal on your Family Connection account

bull Collect business cards keep the names of each person you meet during your visit and send a thank you note Remember everyone likes to be appreciated for doing a good job

bull Donrsquot argue with your parents during the campus visit They will have questions that might be different from yours ndash let them ask An argument will only reflect poorly on you

18

What to Ask on College Visits Families should come prepared with a list of questions to ask not only admissions officers but more importantly student admissions representatives and tour guides in order to get a full idea of campus life By tailoring questions to these studentsrsquo per-sonal experiences families can see the school from a current studentrsquos perspective rather than just hearing statistics compiled by the admission office which may create an incomplete impression for prospective students Most quantitative data is available either on the schoolrsquos website or in paper pamphlets Campus tours provide an op-portunity to collect qualitative data that can provide important points of comparison between two schools with otherwise similar numbers On a hot summer day of touring colleges qualitative data can also give much needed character to an otherwise empty campus

Before heading out on your next college trip consider a list of questions that are im-portant to you Below are ten aspects of college life that are of particular interest to prospective students with possible questions for student admissions representatives

Academicsbull How many students were in your introductory courses Upper-level courses bull Have your courses been taught by professors or teaching assistants What roles do

teaching assistants play in classesbull How difficult is it to sign up for classes as a freshmanbull How often are you expected to meet with your advisor during the year Are advi-

sors readily available to meet with their studentsbull How did you decide upon your major Is it easy to switch majors How much time

do I have to decide my major before formally declaring

Residential Lifebull Where do freshmen live Is it separate from upperclassmen bull What are the living arrangements in dorms Do students generally move off cam-

pus Is housing guaranteed all four years If it isnrsquot how easydifficult is it to find on and off campus options

bull How is the food on campus Are meal plans mandatory How expensive are food options off campus

bull How has your experience been living in the dorms What do you like about it What do you dislike about it

bullStudent Lifebull What clubs and activities are active on campus What are you involved inbull Is Greek life a large part of the social life on campus What is recruitment like

19


bull How often do students go home on the weekends How does this affect your social life What constitutes a typical weekend for you and your friends

bull Are sports an important part of the school identity here What levels are available mdash varsity club and intramurals How competitive and time-consuming are they

Other Opportunitiesbull Are there research opportunities on campus How often do students participate in

research Do students work alongside their professors when conducting researchbull Are jobs readily available on campus Off campus How easy is it to obtain a jobbull How many internship opportunities are available to students during the school

year How have your internships impacted your college experiencebull Do students study abroad At what point in their college career do they generally

do so What resources are available to students interested in study abroad programs

Freshman Experiencebull How long is freshman orientation Is it a worthwhile experience What was your

favorite part of freshman orientation Least favoritebull What advice do you have for incoming freshmen What do you wish you knew

then that you know nowbull What resources are available to freshmen to help facilitate a smooth transition

Requirementsbull How easydifficult has it been for you to fulfill your requirements Do you have a

choice in what classes you take to fulfill requirementsbull How many classescredits are students required to take each semester bull How helpful is your advisor during the class selection process

Campus Safetybull How safe is the area around campus Have you ever felt unsafe outside of campusbull What policies and procedures exist to keep students safe How accessible are cam-

pus safety personnel

Application Processbull Why did you choose this school What do you like most about your experience

here What do you like least bull What other schools were you interested inbull What do you know now that you wish you knew when you applied to collegebull How is this schoolrsquos application process unique to those at other schools Are in-

terviews mandatory highly suggested or not necessary Are the number of times I visit campus taken into consideration

20

When on a tour listen to the guide and take notes on advice dates and other im-portant information If something is unclear ask for clarification Remember to note where additional information can be found (website pamphlets emails to the admis-sions office) Make a point to speak one-on-one with student admissions representa-tives and ask the questions that are most important to you

If you create a plan before visiting a campus you are more likely to get the informa-tion you need and get a better sense of life at the college despite the lack of student presence Happy travels

Summitrsquos College Counseling staff mdash Laci Tucker Maureen Ferrell and Susan Maxwell mdashwork with students exclusively on college placement

21


The College InterviewSome colleges recommend interviews and some do not even offer them Interviews when offered can make a difference The interview is the only face-to-face part of the process How-ever it is unlikely the interview alone will persuade the committee to overlook weakness in an application

Types of InterviewsOn Campus A college admissions officer typically conducts the on-campus individual interviews and his or her reactions to your 30-45 minute conversation will be included in your file It is per-haps the most important type of interview because the interviewer is often a decision-maker

The alumni interview This type of interview is becoming more popular Alumni interviews are usually arranged after the college has received your application

The high school visit A visit to a high school by a college representative or an admissions eve-ning hosted by a college representative this is similar to the campus group interview You can distinguish yourself in the crowd by asking thoughtful questions Admissions officers routinely keep notes of all their contacts with students in these and other settings

How to prepare for an interviewbull Practice answering questions about your record test scores grades course selection activi-

ties summer experiences goals and your interest in this schoolbull Read the literature sent to you by the college on the collegersquos website or in guidebooks bull Come prepared to discuss your academic background and your interests outside of school bull Know your objectives and what you hope to accomplish during the interview bull Candor and maturity will work in your favor Be prepared to discuss a blemish in your re-

cord without complaining making excuses or blaming others bull Practice with your College Counselor

Interview Dorsquosbull Be yourselfbull Maintain good eye contactbull Dress neatly Take your baseball cap offbull Be positivebull Listenbull Avoid one sentence or one-word answers Remember each question is an invitation for a

conversation Keep it goingbull Show interest Pay attention to both the questions being asked and the answers your

interviewer givesbull Be honestbull Prepare a few questions about the school ahead of timebull Relax have fun Remember the interviewer is looking for reasons to like you and to find ways

in which the college is a good fit for you just as you are trying to sell yourself to the collegebull Send a thank you note

Interview Donrsquotsbull Do not be late for your appointment

22

bull Do not ask the interviewer to compare collegesbull Do not make excuses or blame others for any blemish on your record Offer concise

explanations that indicate a sense of personal responsibility andor lesson learnedbull Do not provide academic materials unless they are requested Admissions Counsel-

ors will review your transcript and resume at another time they prefer to use the interview to get to know you personally

Most important relax and be yourself The admission decision does not depend exclu-sively on the interview Interviews are generally just a friendly informative conver-sation This is your opportunity not only to establish a personal connection with the college through the interviewer but search seriously about this college and how well it fits you Remember ldquoCollege is a match to be made not a prize to be wonrdquo

23


Financial Aid InformationFinancing a college education is becoming more difficult for many families If you think you will need financial assistance in order to attend college be sure to acquaint yourself with the proce-dures that must be followed in applying for financial aid


Regardless of a familyrsquos financial situation a college education is a significant investment that requires careful research and planning When it comes to financing a college education the fundamental premise is that to the extent they are able it is the familyrsquos responsibility to pay for a childrsquos education

In the 1960rsquos federal and state financial aid programs were developed to help our nationrsquos most needy families access higher education When competition for students increased in the 1990rsquos colleges began to use merit (non-need based) scholarships to encourage selected students to enroll Today families encounter a combination of need and merit based financial aid options

Principles of Need Analysis

The single most important factor in determining aid eligibility for most families is parental income Other factors include non-discretionary expenses (such as taxes medical expenses and basic living expenses) parental assets and the number of dependents attending college bull To the extent they are able parents have primary responsibility to pay for their dependent

childrenrsquos educationbull Students also have a responsibility to contribute to their educational costsbull Families should be evaluated in their present financial conditionbull A familyrsquos ability to pay for educational costs must be evaluated in an equitable and consis-

tent manner recognizing that special circumstances can and do affect ability to pay

When you evaluate the packages offered by colleges remember the largest award may not nec-essarily be the best Consider differences in cost of attendance The largest dollar offer may also be the one at the most expensive college and therefore the one with the greatest unmet need or ldquogaprdquo between cost and available resources If you cannot fill the gap with other resources you still may not be able to enroll in that college

Even two offers that fully meet your needs may not be equal If the estimated student expense budget used to calculate need is unrealistically low you may have more real unmet needs than the award letter suggests Some institutions estimate their costs conservatively to imply a more complete meeting of need than actually exists You should compare stated costs with similar institutions to verify reasonableness Consider too the loan burden you will have at the end of college in light of your long-range plans Will you be attending graduate school Will you be entering a lower-paying profession If so the cost of loans might be extremely burdensome

If you have questions about your financial aid package you or your parents should contact the financial aid administrator at the college

24

DivorcedSeparated Parents Most colleges and universities will also require infor-mation from the non-custodial parent with the expectation that contributions to the college expenses will be made if able The College Boardrsquos DivorcedSeparated Parent Statement should be available from the collegersquos financial aid office

Early Decision Candidates Early Decision candidates MUST communicate directly with the collegersquos financial aid office In most cases you will need to complete the CSS PROFILE in November and you may need to complete additional institutional forms The college will likely give you an estimated award package at the time of admission Your aid award will not become official until you submit a FAFSA in order to become eligible for federal aid

Types of Financial Aid

Once the admission office decides to admit a candidate and the financial aid office has determined that the candidate qualifies for financial aid the financial aid office puts together a financial aid package which is a combination of several types of financial assistance

Grants Federal state and institutional grants are financial aid awards that you do not need to repay

Loans Most are interest-free during enrollment student loans must be repaid with interest over a period of time after graduating SubsidizedStafford loans are need-based loans on which the federal government pays the interest while the student is enrolled in college and for six months after graduation Any student regardless of financial eligibility can apply for an unsubsidized Stafford Loan

Work The vast majority of financial aid recipients will be expected to hold part-time jobs

Note Not all schools guarantee that they will meet the full need of every admitted student Most schools are unable to fund everyone which causes a ldquogaprdquo (unmet need) for which you are responsible Other schools that are unable to offer aid to some applicants choose to deny admission

Sources of Financial Aid

Institutional Institutional aid comes directly from and is controlled by the individual college or university Amounts of institutional aid offered by one college may differ significantly from what may be offered by another and can be based on financial need andor merit

25


Private Private sources include foundations religious cultural community or fraternal organi-zations This funding may be scholarship- or loan-based and can be based on merit need or by association with the awarding organization

Federal Government The Federal Government administers a number of grant and loan pro-grams designed to aid students with college costs

Applying for Financial Aid The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the financial aid application required by all colleges and is processed by the Department of Education Some colleges and private scholarship programs may also require the CSSFinancial Aid PROFILE (PRO-FILE) processed by The College Scholarship Service of the College Board

It is important to check with the college financial aid office or scholarship program for specific application requirements

When to Apply for Financial Aid

FAFSA FAFSA is available online at wwwfafsaedgov and should be completed and filed as soon after January 1 as possible using information from the previous yearrsquos federal tax forms The FAFSA calculates the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) based on a standard formula known as federal methodology Each collegersquos financial aid officer then determines each stu-dentrsquos demonstrated financial need by assessing the difference between educational expenses (tuition room board and some expenses) and your EFC Many families are required to submit additional information such as income tax records as a part of the process

Expected Family Contribution The EFC and what the family feels it can afford to contribute often differ Financial Aid Officers are there to help students and parents through the processmdashdonrsquot hesitate to contact them for help College financial aid officers attempt to maintain loan and work levels that will allow reasonable repayment either during or following college

Important Note There should never be a fee to complete the FAFSA If a website charges a fee you are not using the correct online FAFSAThe CSS Profile is available online at wwwcollegeboardcom and families can begin to complete this form in the fall of the senior year

Non-Need Scholarships

For the student who does not qualify for aid but finds it difficult to cover college costs alterna-tives often exist Seek out possible scholarships offered by the colleges of interest to you Col-leges will use scholarships to entice students who will enhance their student body (often stu-dents who are at the top end of the academic profile) to enrollAlso pursue scholarships you might apply for from ldquooutsiderdquo sources such as companies founda-tions and community organizations

26

Tips for Pursuing Non-Need scholarships

bull Be aware of deadlinesbull Treat any required essays with great care Carefully read the qualification require-

ments and only apply for those scholarships if you meet the criterionbull Like the college application scholarship applications take timebull Evaluating Financial Aid Awardsbull Are the non-billed costs (such as books and travel) used to determine financial

need realisticbull Is my full need being met with financial aid If not what is the gapbull If the billed fees (tuition room board activity etc) increase in future years will

the new costs be considered in awarding future financial aidbull How many meals per week are covered by the dining planbull What portion of my aid is gift aid (grantscholarship)bull Must I accept all the financial aid offered in the financial aid package or can I de-

cline the loan or job without losing any other part of the packagebull What is the schoolrsquos policy if I receive an outside private scholarship Will it be

used to reduce the college grant or the self-help (loanwork) portion of my awardbull Is my top choice college (for academic and other reasons) feasible financiallybull Every fall or spring students and their families are targeted to receive letters from

companies claiming to be able to provide special access to scholarships grants or ldquoguaranteedrdquo financial aid packages If you have to pay money to use the service it is probably a scam

Financial Aid Tips

bull Both students and parents should learn as much as possible about the college financial aid process Meet with college financial aid administrators to establish a relationship

bull Submit a FAFSA even if you do not think you qualify for aid Being rejected for federal aid is often a prerequisite for private awards

bull Apply for aid as soon as possible after January 1 Be aware of ALL deadlinesbull Inform financial aid administrators in writing about unusual expenses Sometimes

allowances may be made to assist youbull Take advantage of tuition prepayment discounts Some colleges offer discounts for

early paymentbull Investigate company-sponsored tuition plans Many employers will invest in the

education of their employeesbull To avoid gift tax liability money from grandparents should be paid in your name

directly to the school

27


bull Apply You cannot win awards or receive funds for which you do not apply so pay attention to deadlines

bull Use scholarship search engines like wwwfinaidorg or wwwfastwebcom to help you find the private sector assistance you need

bull Beware of scholarship scams You should never have to pay a fee to file a FAFSA or to receive a scholarship

Web Resources for Financial Aid

The following websites will be helpful to you as you research financial aid and apply for various financial aid programs and scholarships These links are also on The Summitrsquos College Counseling web pages and you may find them easier to explore online

Financial Aid and Scholarship sites

FAFSA Free Application for federal student aid need-based applications and scholarships (800-433-3243) wwwfafsaedgovFastWEB Offers a personalized scholarship search for various merit awards wwwfastwebcomFinAid Offers users information about every type of financial aid and scholarship wwwfinaidorgFinAidOtherAid Offers information about scholar-ships for students with disabilities wwwfinaidorgotheraiddisabledphtmlBlack Students Helps African American students find the latest scholarships and grantswwwblackstudentsblacknewscomMerit Aid Lists merit aid organized by state wwwmeritaidcomSchool Soup Claims to be the worldrsquos largest scholarship database wwwschoolsoupcomSallie Mae The nationrsquos leading provider of funds for insured student loans wwwsalliemaecomFederal Student Aid A student gateway to the US government (More than financial aid) wwwstudentaidedgovredirectsfederal-student-aid-ed-govUS Department of Education Explains policies on federal aid wwwedgovScholarshipscom How to fund your education wwwscholarshipscomCSS Financial Aid PROFILE Application site for nonfederal financial aid wwwstudentcollegeboardorgcss-financial-aid-profileTax Benefits for Education Explains tax credits deductions and savings plans that can help with college expenses wwwirsgovuacTax-Benefits-for-Education-Information-Center

Disabled Family Resources

Social Security Administration wwwssagovCenters for Medicare amp Medicaid Services wwwcmsgovDepartment of Health and Human Services wwwhhsgov

28

College Search ResourcesThe Summit Country Day School College Counseling Office has prepared a quick reference guide on books often used during a college search Most of these books are available through local bookstores libraries or online booksellers Many selections are also available for your review in The Summitrsquos College Counseling Office

Objective College Profile Books The college profile books offer you the basic facts about col-leges number of students majors admission data housing information cost addresses etc A number of publishers put them out and they all have similar data Two examples include are College Board College Handbook and Petersonrsquos Four Year Colleges

Subjective College Profile Books The subjective college profile books are a bit more contro-versial because as the name implies they are subjective However you may find them useful Usually based on questionnaires distributed to students professors administrators and deans the profiles in these books are an attempt to characterize the aspects of college that cannot be quantified social atmosphere academic pressure and competition quality of housing food attitudes of students and faculty etc If you use these books make sure to read a num-ber of them Do not take one booksrsquo word for it Some examples include The Fiske Guide to Colleges Insiderrsquos Guide to Colleges Colleges That Change Lives The Best 377 Colleges Ruggs Recommendations and Americarsquos Best Colleges (US News amp World Report) Guidebooks College guidebooks are available to help students and parents understand the entire college search and selection process These resources have been quite useful to many families Some recommended titles include College Admission by Robin Mamlet Colleges Unranked by Lloyd Thacker Irsquom Going to College ndash Not You by Jennifer Delahunty Letting Go by Karen Coburn and Madge Theeger and Crazy U by Andrew Ferguson

Specialized Guides Among the many specialized guide books to colleges are these examples Colleges with Programs for Students with Learning Disabilities or ADD by Peterson K amp W Guide to Colleges for the Learning Disabled by Kravets and Wax African American Studentrsquos College Guide and Americarsquos Black Colleges the Comprehensive Guide to Historically and Predominately Black 4 Year Colleges and Universities by J Wilson Bowman Browse bookstores and booklists to find out about specialty books that may fit your situation or consult with a Summit College Counselor

Websites College websites can give you a visual image of the campus and general student body It seems that in photographs and promotional videos every day is sunny and every stu-dent is smiling However these are often useful tools to get an idea of what the campus looks like See a detailed list of college search web sites in the chapter ldquoUseful Websitesrdquo

29


13

The13 Summit13 Country13 Day13 School13 College13 Counseling13 Handbook13 2913

13

Summit College Counseling Readers Guide College Search Books Title Author Description

The College Solution OShaughnessy Great book on finding the right fit at the right cost

Guide for Right School at Right Price

What High Schools Dont Tell You Wissner-Gross Strategies to be admitted to highly selective colleges

The College Hook Proctor Hints on how your student can differentiate themselves

Running of the Bulls Ridgway Describes 5 Wharton Undergrads experiences

Getting In Cohen Practical information on getting into selective colleges

Zinch Guide to College Admiss and Fin Aid

Paying for College without Going Broke Chany Up to date info on Financial Aid easy to read with tips

Best Buys in College Education Barrons Getting the most for your money

Winning the Admissions Game Van Buskirk Advice to parents and to students Highly recommended

Fat Envelope Frenzy Jager-Hyman Follows 5 seniors from Sept to May with applications

The Financial Aid Handbook Stack Former financial aid officers describes merit awardsaid

The New Rules of College Admissions Kramer Former admissions officers reveal how to get in to colleges

Shrinking the Cost of College OShaughnessy Easy to read workbook with great examples and info

Overachievers Robbins High end stressed kids trying for the top

The Gatekeepers Steinberg How Wesleyan Univ determines acceptances

Inside the Admissions Process Reflections on 100000 Admissions at Stanford Fetter X-admissions officer talks about her previous job

A is for Admissions Hernandez Former admissions officer at Dartmouth

Admissions Confidential Toor Dukes admission officer feedback

Getting In Cohen Written by a high priced college admissions counselor

The Select Greene Realities of life and learning in Americas Elite Colleges

A Parents Guide to College Admissions Kaplan Logical approach to college admissions

Harvard Schmarvard Mathews The ins and outs of going to Harvard

Campus Visits and College Interviews College Board Describes how you should visit colleges

Acing the College Application Hernandez Advice from a former Dartmouth admissions officer

Go to College Almost for Free Kaplan Logical strategies for finding outside scholarships

Scholarship Scouting Report Kaplan Insiders guide to the best scholarships

Privilege Douthat Harvard alum writes about his time at Harvard

The Price of Admission Golden How the ruling class buys its way into elite colleges

Pledged Robbins College life in a sorority written by undercover writer

Debt-Free U Bissonnette How to pay for college without loans or scholarships

30

Useful Websites There are an abundance of websites offering information about every aspect of the college admission process We have listed a number of sites we find reliable and infor-mative These links are also on The Summitrsquos College Counseling web pages and you may find them easier to explore online Essential Sites

The Common Application The standardized application used by many colleges and universi-ties wwwcommonapporgCommonAppdefaultaspxThe ACT Administers the ACT test Free prep materials wwwactstudentorgCollege Board Administers the PSAT SAT and Advanced Placement tests wwwcollegeboardorgNCAA Eligibility Center Provides information about eligibility for Division I and II wwweligibilitycenterorgFree Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Need-based applications and scholar-ships wwwfafsaedgovNaviance Family Connection The Summit uses this throughout the college planning pro-cess It lists every scholarship we know of with application links and deadline information You will find this link on The Summitrsquos website and in the portal httpsconnectionnaviancecomsummitcds

Researching Colleges in the US

Go See Campus A college search engine with a trip planner tool wwwgoseecampuscomPrinceton Review Offers test prep options wwwprincetonreviewcomKaplan Offers test prep options wwwkaplancomCampus Tours Offers virtual tours of colleges wwwcampustourscomUnigo Offers studentrsquos reviews of colleges they attend wwwunigocomCollege Confidential A forum where you can ask questions of insiders wwwcollegeconfidentialcomColleges That Change Lives Directory of colleges worth consideration wwwctclorgReputation Management A guide to a studentrsquos online reputation wwwreputationmanagementcomonline-reputation-management-for-high-school-students

Researching Colleges outside the US

WorldWide Classroom Library of International Programs wwwworldwideeduindexhtmlEducation International (EI) wwwei-ieorg

31


Braintrack wwwbraintrackcomStudy in Canada wwwstudyincanadacomenglishindexasp


FAFSA Free Application for federal student aid need-based applications and scholarships (800-433-3243) wwwfafsaedgovFastWEB Offers a personalized scholarship search for various merit awards wwwfastwebcomFinAid Offers users information about every type of financial aid and scholarship wwwfinaidorgFinAidOtherAid Offers information about scholarships for students with disabilities wwwfinaidorgotheraiddisabledphtmlBlack Students Helps African American students find the latest scholarships and grants wwwblackstudentsblacknewscomMerit Aid Lists merit aid organized by state wwwmeritaidcomSchool Soup Claims to be the worldrsquos largest scholarship database wwwschoolsoupcomSallie Mae The nationrsquos leading provider of funds for insured student loans wwwsalliemaecomFederal Student Aid A student gateway to the US government (More than financial aid) wwwstudentaidedgovredirectsfederal-student-aid-ed-govUS Department of Education Explains policies on federal aid wwwedgovScholarshipscom How to fund your education wwwscholarshipscomCSS Financial Aid PROFILE Application site for nonfederal financial aid wwwstudentcollegeboardorgcss-financial-aid-profileTax Benefits for Education Explains tax credits deductions and savings plans that can help with college expenses wwwirsgovuacTax-Benefits-for-Education-Information-CenterCollege Scorecard Compares affordability for various colleges and universities wwwcollegecostedgovscorecardindexaspxOnline Schools College financial aid guide wwwonlineschoolsorgfinancial-aid

Disabled Family Resources Social Security Administration wwwssagovCenters for Medicare amp Medicaid Services wwwcmsgovDepartment of Health and Human Services wwwhhsgov

Other Online Test Prep Sites

Number2 Free practice tests for the SAT and ACT wwwnumber2comPrep Me For profit company offers a diagnostic SAT and ACT wwwprepmecomReviewscom Evaluates ACT and SAT prep courses wwwreviewscomact-sat-test-prep-courses

College Counseling Office (513) 871-4700 x282 The Summit Admissions Office (513) 871-4700 x261

wwwsummitcdsorg


2

Support Information Encouragement

The Summit Country Day School College Counseling Team

Maureen Ferrell Director of College Counseling

5138714700 x226

ferrell_msummitcdsorg

Laci Tucker College Counselor

5138714700 x364

tucker_lsummitcdsorg

Mike Fee Guidance Counselor

Grades 9-12

5138714700 x249

fee_msummitcdsorg

Susan MaxwellCollege Counseling

Administrative Assistant

5138714700 x282

maxwell_ssummitcdsorg

3


Welcome








Index

Welcome 3

Planning Calendar 4





Resources 28

Websites 30


4
















5















6





















7






















8





June bull Graduate









9









10











11




12





13






14













15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




16









17




















18












19


















20




21














22





23













24











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Financial Aid Tips








27











28






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13


13

































30







31









wwwsummitcdsorg


3


Welcome








Index

Welcome 3

Planning Calendar 4





Resources 28

Websites 30


4
















5















6





















7






















8





June bull Graduate









9









10











11




12





13






14













15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




16









17




















18












19


















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21














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23













24











25












26









Financial Aid Tips








27











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13


13

































30







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wwwsummitcdsorg


4
















5















6





















7






















8





June bull Graduate









9









10











11




12





13






14













15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




16









17




















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19


















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23













24











25












26









Financial Aid Tips








27











28






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30







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wwwsummitcdsorg


5















6





















7






















8





June bull Graduate









9









10











11




12





13






14













15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




16









17




















18












19


















20




21














22





23













24











25












26









Financial Aid Tips








27











28






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13

































30







31









wwwsummitcdsorg


6





















7






















8





June bull Graduate









9









10











11




12





13






14













15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




16









17




















18












19


















20




21














22





23













24











25












26









Financial Aid Tips








27











28






29


13


13

































30







31









wwwsummitcdsorg


7






















8





June bull Graduate









9









10











11




12





13






14













15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




16









17




















18












19


















20




21














22





23













24











25












26









Financial Aid Tips








27











28






29


13


13

































30







31









wwwsummitcdsorg


8





June bull Graduate









9









10











11




12





13






14













15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




16









17




















18












19


















20




21














22





23













24











25












26









Financial Aid Tips








27











28






29


13


13

































30







31









wwwsummitcdsorg


9









10











11




12





13






14













15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




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A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




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wwwsummitcdsorg


11




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15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




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wwwsummitcdsorg


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15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




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wwwsummitcdsorg


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15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




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wwwsummitcdsorg


14













15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




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Financial Aid Tips








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wwwsummitcdsorg


15


A tool forcomparing

scores


3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211



800800





AC TC ompos ite

S c ore


Math(S core R ange)


E nglishWriting

S AT S c oreWriting

(S core R ange)

3635343332313029282726252423222120191817161514131211

160015601510146014201380134013001260122011901150111010701030990950910870830790740690640590530

800800770740720690670650630610590570550530510490470450430420400380360340330310



S AT S c oreWriting

(S ingle S core)




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wwwsummitcdsorg


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wwwsummitcdsorg
