Guidance News
Spring 2019
The College Planning Process
What Colleges Look for in an Applicant
When colleges look at an applicant they are looking for students who will succeed in a college environment. When viewing applications, colleges usually use a holistic approach, considering a number of factors including:- Cumulative GPA
- Rigor of courses
- SAT/ACT scores
- Extra-curricular activities
- Recommendations
- Essay
- Community service/volunteering
- Awards, honors and leadership
- Demonstrated interest in the university
Starting Your College Search
Spring of junior year is the ideal time to start visiting colleges. Colleges offer tours and information sessions on a weekly basis and open houses on select weekends in the spring and fall. Visiting the campus will give you a good sense if the school is a good fit for you. The college website is also a good resource to learn about admissions requirements, majors, important deadlines, financial aid, etc. In addition, the following tools are available to help you explore college majors, careers and scholarships:
mefapathway.org
bridges.com
collegeboard.org
Spring SAT/ACT Registration Dates
SAT & SAT Subject Test Dates
March 9, 2019
May 4, 2019
June 1, 2019
Register online at collegeboard.org.
Students who took the PSAT should link their PSAT results to Khan Academy for a free SAT personalized practice. To do this, follow the instructions on your PSAT report.
ACT Test Dates
April 13, 2019
June 8, 2019
July 13, 2019
Register online at actstudent.org.
Event Information
College Admissions Seminar for Parents of Juniors
When?
Tuesday, Mar 26, 2019, 06:00 PM
Where?
Auditorium
Course Selection for 2019-2020 School Year
It's that time of year again. As you select your classes, it is important to have a discussion with your teacher about recommendations. Your counselor will also be available to assist you in making the right decision. Involve your parents in the decision-making process. Do you already have a college major in mind? If so, ask yourself if you are taking the right courses for that major. Select challenging coursework and make sure you are on track with your graduation requirements.
MEFA Pathway
MEFA Pathway is a college and career planning tool that can help students discover careers, colleges, and majors based upon their interest, values, and favorite subjects. Students have the option to build a resume, take an interest survey, learn about college admissions and explore scholarship opportunities. Juniors recently registered for this program and sophomores will register in the upcoming weeks and spend some class time exploring the program. Check out the website at mefapathway.org.
AP Exams 2019
AP exams will be held in May (dates are posted on the school website). The cost for each AP exam is $94. Students should bring payment to the guidance office by 04/04/2019.
Contact Us
Lauri Howard
School Counselor lhoward@wbridgewater.com
Alcides Pina
School Counselor apina@wbridgewater.com
Katherine Pontes
School Psychologist kpontes@wbridgewater.com
Jane Walsh
Guidance Secretary jwalsh@wbridgewater.com
Twitter@wbguidance