College Counseling Announces Spring Events

George School’s College Counseling team is hosting an online college tour this spring. The event is designed to help students with college selection throughout the ongoing pandemic. “The college application process is difficult in a normal year,” said Beth Ann Burkmar, Director of College Counseling. “The goal of our programming has not changed: To help students and families make informed choices, expose students to the wide range of institutions out there, and guide them into making the choice that is the best fit for them. Our programming aligns with that same philosophy, and has allowed us to get creative, while partnering with colleges to present the George School Virtual College Tour for juniors”.

The virtual tour kicked off on Thursday, March 11, 2021 and ran though Saturday, March 13, 2021. Each day included a kick-off and/or debriefing meeting, no more than two school visits, and intentional screen breaks. Schools included The University of California-San Diego, Davidson College, University of Miami, Oberlin College, the University of Oregon, The University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Reed College.

“On this ‘trip’  students gained virtual college visit best practice skills, built confidence in engaging with college admission professionals, and introduced students to a variety of college options,” said Catherine Box, Associate Director of College Counseling.

George School juniors and their families were sent registration information.

Other events hosted by the College Counseling team this spring include:

Real Talk: Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Edition. Sponsored by the College Board, this event allowed students to connect with HBCU admissions representatives from around the country. Topics covered included academic offerings, student organizations, career paths, Greek life, and financial aid. Each night covered different universities and information. The event was Wednesday, March 3 and Thursday, March 4 at 7:00 p.m.

Admission Testing and the Surging Test Optional Movement, hosted by Compass Education Group on Wednesday, March 17 at 7:00 p.m. There was thoughtful and pragmatic discussion of college admission testing that was useful to students and parents alike.

College Athletics and Recruiting on April 7, 2021. Drawing on the immense experience of the Cougars’ coaches, students and families gained an understanding of each division, the commitment required, and the various ways in which students can be recruited to play varsity athletics in college. Watch the video.

College Admissions and the Creative and Performing Arts. College Counseling will host a virtual program for creative and performing artists and their families on April 22 at 7:00 p.m.! Is your child unsure if they want to go to an art school or conservatory? This program will cover this question and more, including the differences between BA and BFA programs; the application, portfolio, and audition processes; and how to prepare now. This event is open to all families.

HBCU Event. The College Counseling Office will host “Celebrating and Exploring the Pathway to HBCUs, Historically Black Colleges and Universities” on Thursday, May 13 at 7:00 p.m. All grade levels are encouraged and invited to attend this important conversation led by recent George School alumni.

Virtual College Fair. George School and the Philadelphia Area Independent Schools (PAIS) will host a College Fair Collaboration on Tuesday, May 18 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Students (sophomores and juniors) will be able to join virtual information sessions from colleges in the US, Canada, and the UK. Stay tuned for registration details!