True to Dublin School's mission, the College Counseling Office at Dublin School strives to provide an individualized and supportive college counseling experience for each student. Dublin School assumes a responsibility for guiding students in their selection of a college or university that is most suited to their interests and goals, assisting the student with the application process, and providing the necessary supporting materials. With the aid of the internet-based software Naviance, parents, students, and the College Office can all access current information regarding each student’s test scores, profile, college list, and application information. Communication and teamwork help to make the daunting process of college admissions less stressful.

During the freshman and sophomore years, college counseling takes the form of sound academic advising. Students are encouraged to take a challenging course load and to recognize that the quality of one’s academic performance at this stage will impact the college admissions experience. Although there is little formal college counseling during these years, students are welcome to visit the college office, talk with the counselor, and explore future possibilities using the office’s resources.

Formal counseling begins during the junior year. All juniors begin the college process by assessing their talents and personality type by completing a Meyer’s Briggs Assessment and Interest Inventory. Additionally, juniors complete a profile form, which is used by the college counselor to gather background information and push students to reflect on their past high school experience and future goals. This information is the centerpiece of the first official college meeting. An initial list of prospective colleges can then be formed. It is imperative that students take an active role in this process, and they are encouraged to do so mid-way through their junior year. In addition to individual meetings with the college counselor, workshops are offered that pertain to such topics as: using Naviance, the college search process, what colleges are looking for, strategies for a strong application, and interview skills.

Much of a student’s standardized testing also occurs during the junior year. All juniors take the PSAT in October and take a combination of the SAT Reasoning Test, SAT Subject Tests, and/or the ACT in the spring. Dublin School is aware of the need to help our students prepare for standardized testing. Although our curriculum is not test driven, we do provide some preparation for our students within our classes by doing such things as using SAT format on some assessments, building vocabulary, and having students write timed essays. Additionally, Dublin School invests in an on-line ACT and SAT Method Test Prep program through Naviance. Students can freely access practice questions, tutorials, and full-length practice tests for both the ACT and SAT. The college counselor can monitor how often each student accesses this program so that individuals can be held accountable for completing some test preparation.

Throughout the school year, college representatives schedule visits to our campus to meet with prospective candidates. Students are encouraged to meet with representatives from schools that are of interest to them. For many students, this first contact with a college is an important step in the complicated decision making process. Dublin School also attends a college fair in the spring. Parents are encouraged to visit schools with their student during March break or over the summer prior to the senior year.

The senior year is dedicated to the application process itself. Students receive support with finalizing their college list, writing essays, managing deadlines, and are given financial aid information.

The College Office aims to meet the needs of each individual. At the same time, students are asked to take charge of their own process, and parent involvement is highly encouraged throughout the process. A successful college admission experience requires balanced ownership by students, parents, and the college counselor.

Holly Macy
Director of College Counseling

Dublin School Parent Testimonial

College Acceptances 2009-2010

College Acceptances 2008-2010

Dublin School Profile 2010-2011