Programs
College Guidance

Program Philosophy

A successful college process starts with a happy and self-motivated Archer girl. That’s why we integrate topics like challenging curriculum choices, thoughtful test preparation, and time management into the Human Development curriculum in both 9th and 10th grades to make sure our students are getting good advice at the right time.
In 11th grade, the Human Development curriculum centers on the transition to college as an opportunity for self-development and reflection. We encourage students to use their critical thinking, investigative, and research skills to look beyond the hype and marketing of the college process to identify for themselves the colleges and universities that will best serve their needs, ambitions, and future goals.

Topics include building a personal testing plan, using the best resources for college research, understanding the financial aid process, effective communication with parents, as well as how to best showcase accomplishments in the application and on a resume.

Classwork and hands-on projects are paired with a wide variety of opportunities including:

List of 5 items.

  • Group meetings with 80+ college admission representatives

  • College essay workshops

  • A mock admission experience with over 70 selective colleges and universities

  • Unlimited one-on-one and family meetings with her college counselor

  • Class trip for local college tours

As each student’s process is unique to her, the program is structured but flexible, allowing each Archer girl to chart her own course on her own terms. While we encourage each student to take the lead in her own process, the structure of our department ensures she is never without the advice and support of her college counseling team.
 
In 12th grade, we focus on a calm and consistent approach to the application process. Students are given a head start on applications at our annual College Jump Start. Not only does this allow our students to start 12th grade with complete applications, but they are also well prepared for college interviews, scholarship weekends, and success in their classes. Each student meets as often as needed with her counselor to ensure that she is comfortable and confident with her college choices, applications, and overall strategy. As a result of this approach, Archer girls apply to fewer schools than their peers with fantastic results: 81% of the Class of 2019 were admitted to one or more of their top three choices.