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College Counseling

College Acceptances

Through hard work and personal growth, our recent alumni have earned acceptances to many prestigious institutions, including the following:

Mission

South Kent School’s College Counseling Office provides students and their families with a proactive and informed program designed to navigate the ever-changing and complex college search and application process. Rooted in our Mission and guided by our Trinity of Values, our personalized approach to college counseling enables students to find purpose, discern what is important, and take the initiative in their preparation for college so that they can thrive and succeed beyond South Kent School.

Our advising model begins as early as the Third Form year to help students explore skills and interests, identify their learning needs, and articulate their aspirations for college and beyond. Students and counselors then actively collaborate in academic course and extracurricular selection, standardized testing plans and seminars, and identifying the best college matches. By their Fifth Form and Sixth Form years, students receive hands-on, comprehensive support to help distinguish themselves in the increasingly competitive college application and selection process.

Our counselors are committed advisors and advocates who build strong relationships with our students throughout their college counseling journey. The School’s tight-knit community and singular curriculum allow our college counseling staff to truly get to know every facet of our students’ School lives and take a personalized approach to support the individualized goals of our boys and their families. By creating a team approach with advisors, faculty, coaches, and parents, we allow students to fully explore their post-secondary aspirations and continue their path of development and success.

Visit with our team in the Lyon House and contact our the team for support.

Personalized Education

At South Kent, the counseling team recognizes that each student is unique, with individual strengths, interests, and aspirations. With this understanding, they are committed to providing personalized guidance tailored to the specific needs of every student. Whether it’s academic support, career counseling, or personal development, the counseling team works closely with students to identify their goals and chart a course for success.

From course selection to extracurricular involvement, the counselors at South Kent are invaluable resources, offering insight, advice, and encouragement every step of the way. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, they empower students to explore their passions, pursue their interests, and unlock their full potential.

College Counseling Timeline

Third Form

Meet with an advisor to share academic and extracurricular goals and interests.
Develop awareness about your skills and strengths in and out of the classroom through the Mastery curriculum.
Work hard to master your four learning targets: Critical Thinking, Emotional Resilience, and Stewardship. Transcripts will include grades beginning the Third Form year and should reflect your ability.
Get to know the campus and yourself within the South Kent School community.
Explore your curiosities and discover something new by participating in extracurricular clubs, activities, and community service opportunities.

Fourth Form

Continue to master your learning targets, excel in your classes, and take advantage of extracurricular and community service opportunities.
Create an NCAA profile if considering collegiate athletics.
Take the PSAT/ACT Diagnostic Test during the second half of the academic year and begin to formulate a testing plan for your Fifth and Sixth Form years.
Research schools to get a sense of what’s out there and participate in college visits when you can.

Fifth Form

Meet with your College Counselor to build a college list during the first half of the year. Use Cialfo to refine your search by academic program, location, size, athletic conference, and more!
Attend South Kent School and Summit Education Group’s College Admissions Testing Presentation with parents/guardians for information on the SAT and ACT.
Take the PSAT/NMSQT in October.
Attend admission representative visits at South Kent during the first half of the year. Visit colleges during spring break and summer when many college campus visits occur. Colleges track student interaction, and your visits could be considered during the admission review process.
Take SAT and/or ACT prep classes, which are available to students for a fee in the second half of the academic year.
Remain involved in campus activities and begin to seek out leadership roles.
Sit for your first SAT and/or ACT attempt during the second half of the year.
Receive two teacher recommendations by the end of the academic year.
Draft your college essay during the summer and continue to visit colleges when possible.
Research and engage in meaningful summer opportunities and activities (i.e. a job or an internship, volunteering, or attending a summer program.

Sixth Form

Meet with your college counselor in September to finalize college lists and applications and organize due dates.
Take the SAT and/or the ACT in October, November, and December if needed. This will be your last chance before submitting your applications.
Attend on-campus college visits.
Complete financial aid applications during the first half of the year.
Communicate with the College Counseling Office as you receive admission decisions.

College Credit Offerings

South Kent School prides itself on offering a comprehensive and rigorous academic program that prepares students for the challenges of higher education. As part of this commitment, the counseling team facilitates opportunities for students to earn college credit while still in high school.

Through partnerships with accredited colleges and universities, students at South Kent have the chance to enroll in advanced courses, participate in dual enrollment programs, and even earn college credits through Advanced Placement (AP) exams. This not only allows students to accelerate their academic journey but also provides them with valuable exposure to college-level coursework and the rigors of higher education.

By leveraging these opportunities with programs like Syracuse and SUPA, students graduate from South Kent with a competitive edge, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel in college and beyond. Learn more about our offerings.

Transition to College

As the culmination of their high school journey approaches, the counseling team at South Kent plays a crucial role in supporting students through the transition to college. From navigating the college application process to preparing for standardized tests and admissions interviews, the counselors provide comprehensive guidance and support every step of the way.

Through one-on-one meetings, workshops, and seminars, students receive personalized assistance in researching colleges, selecting a major, and crafting compelling applications. The counseling team also offers valuable resources and insights to help students explore financial aid options, scholarships, and other opportunities to make their college education accessible and affordable.

But the support doesn’t end with acceptance letters. The counseling team continues to assist students as they make the transition to college life, providing guidance on academic planning, time management, and coping with the challenges of independence. By fostering a culture of support and accountability, they ensure that every student feels empowered and prepared to thrive in their college journey.

The counseling team at South Kent School is not just a support system; they are champions of student success, advocates for personal growth, and architects of opportunity. Through their unwavering dedication, expertise, and compassion, they empower students to embrace their potential, pursue their dreams, and make a positive impact on the world.

As South Kent continues to uphold its commitment to excellence in education and character development, the counseling team stands as a testament to the school’s enduring mission: to inspire, to empower, and to transform the lives of young men, one student at a time.