Brunswick Academy

College Counseling Handbook

for Juniors and Seniors

2011-2012

Deborah R. Owen

Director of Guidance

owend@brunswickacademy.com

Telephone: 434.848.2220

Fax: 434.848.0950

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Guidance and Counseling Statement 1

The Application Process 3

Junior Year Time Line 4

How Parents Can Help Their Juniors 6

Suggestions for Senior Year 7

How Parents Can Help Their Seniors 8

Selecting a College 9

Useful Publications for Your Research 12

Visiting a College 14

The Interview 15

Some Guidelines for Preparation for

Interviews 16

Standardized Testing 17

Test Registration 20

Financial Aid 21

The Application 24

Student Athletes 26

Types of College Decisions 27

Sample Letters for Students 28

Sample Resume 30

Worksheet for Building a Resume 32

Writing the College Essay 34

Typical Essay Questions 35

Profile Wait-Listing, Transferring, or

Taking a Year Off 36

Useful Information 37

School Profile 38

College Admission 40

i

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING

The Brunswick Academy Guidance/College Counseling Office supports the Mission Statement

of Brunswick Academy that reads

The mission of Brunswick Academy, in cooperation with our parents and

community, is to provide in a trusting environment instruction which affords

our students a foundation on which to build their lives.

To this end the guidance program strives to fulfill the expectations of the Board of Directors

and administration of Brunswick Academy. The focus of the counseling office is to be on college

planning for juniors and seniors.

Counseling in grades nine through twelve is provided by the guidance counselor in cooperation

with the administration, faculty and staff. The guidance counselor works with students who are

referred by the administration, teachers, parents, or themselves. In addition, the guidance counselor

meets with parents and arranges parent conferences with individual teachers or in a group setting.

Parents, teachers, students, administration, or the counselor may initiate these conferences.

College counseling services are provided primarily for students in the sophomore, junior, and

senior years. Group sessions for sophomores and juniors are held relating to PSAT testing. These

include a pre-testing session for preparation and a follow-up session held at night. This follow-up

session is not only for PSAT results but college planning as well. Parents are invited to attend this

session with the students.

The counselor arranges individual conferences for juniors and seniors to discuss college

choices and career interests. Particularly for the juniors, parents are encouraged to be present for these

conferences. Normally they are scheduled for 3:00 P.M., immediately after the close of school, to

enable parents and students to attend together. These conferences help parents and students understand

the college planning process for their busy senior year.

In order for the parents of seniors and juniors to understand the financial aid process and the

forms to be completed, Brunswick Academy parents are invited to attend the financial aid workshop

conducted by Southside Virginia Community College. The guidance counselor provides parents with

helpful planning materials as well.

The guidance department has a resource center. College catalogs, brochures, CDs, and videos

are available for colleges and universities within Virginia as well as those in other states. These items

are placed in alphabetical order for ease of use. Military information is also available. Families are

encouraged to use the internet to obtain the latest information from the colleges and universities.

Two sections of materials are available for student and parent use: one deals with college

planning tools as well as financial aid and scholarship information; the other contains career planning

information. Students may work individually with these materials.

Various brochures are also available to students and their parents. There are PSAT information

materials, SAT Registration Bulletins, SAT Critical Reasoning Test Sample Question booklets, SAT

Subject Test Sample Question booklets, ACT Registration Packets, and ACT Sample Questions and

Use of Results booklets.

The counselor sets up recruiter meetings for college/university representatives or the military to

meet with interested students, discuss their programs, and answer their questions or concerns. A list of

the appointments is posted to notify students of the appointments.

Scholarship information is available in the guidance office. A blue scholarship folder contains

information received in the guidance office. Scholarship information is available on the Brunswick

Academy website. This posting will make for greater ease for parents and students in obtaining

scholarship information.

Seniors may bring their completed paper college applications to the guidance office where the

counselor reviews them. Most schools are encouraging the use of online applications and we support

this effort. Students are asked to furnish in writing to the counselor a list of the schools to which they

want Secondary School Information sent (an official copy of their transcript, school profile, test scores,

and letters of recommendation, if requested). Please note that it is the student’s responsibility to ask

Mr. Newsom, teachers, the counselor, or others for letters of recommendation. The student can request

that the letters be sent to Mrs. Owen to include with her mailing of the other secondary school

materials.

Students’ records for the upper school are housed in the guidance office. The record includes

grades, community service hours, standardized test results, letters of accomplishment, and so forth.

These are available to students, parents, and educators for review. A signed release of records is

necessary for mailing them to the desired institution. After graduation, seniors’ files are moved to the

graduate files.

If students or parents have questions about any aspect of college planning, or any other

concerns, they should feel free to schedule an appointment with Mr. Newsom or Mrs. Owen or

telephone them. Our desire is to work cooperatively with parents, students, and faculty/staff to bring

about desired mutual goals. Brunswick Academy is a family in the true sense of the word and we strive

for the best for each of our members.

The rest of this handbook is a specific outline for college planning. We want to thank St.

Anne’s-Belfield School for their assistance with this handbook. Our hope is that it will prove to be a

helpful tool to you.

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The Application Process

Applying to college is a daunting challenge. Where does one begin? It is the purpose of this

handbook to remove the mystery of the college application process that causes many parents and

students great concern. This handbook will outline the answers to various questions and concerns that

families have and, hopefully, will provide the necessary assistance to making the application process

easier.

A person is not expected to read this handbook from cover to cover; it should be used when

needed. The material is organized in the same order in which it will be needed in the application

process. Furthermore, it is indexed in such a way that answers should be readily accessible. If there is a

topic that is overlooked or that we have not sufficiently addressed, please let us know. If we do not

know the answer, we shall do our best to find the answer.

The college application process requires hard work and diligence. Students who are serious

about the process should develop a realistic list of schools for consideration and obtain materials in a

timely manner. If they observe deadlines and maintain close communication with their college

counselor, they are more likely to be successful with their quest.

Parents can be very helpful in the college application process. This handbook suggests various

appropriate ways that parents and their children can work together in this venture. Remember that

parental over-involvement encourages student passivity. Neither parents nor counselors can supplant

the student’s active engagement and responsibility.

Although the formal work of the application process does not begin until the spring of the

junior year, preparation for college has been taking place throughout the upper school years, and

indeed, throughout the student’s entire school career. Admission to college is the culmination of five

years of hard work, appropriate course selection, responsibility for learning, and interests explored and

developed.

The mission statement of Brunswick Academy reads

The mission of Brunswick Academy, in cooperation with our parents and

community, is to provide in a trusting environment instruction which affords

our students a foundation on which to build their lives.

Our school faculty and staff strive to help students learn who they are and how to set goals for whom

they wish to become. This should be a positive experience in self-discovery and a valuable opportunity

for student, parents, and faculty to work together for the betterment of all.

Our goal is to assist each of our students in his/her quest for selecting the most appropriate

individual college choice. We recognize the right of each student to strive for the choice(s) that he/she

and family select. The goal of the Brunswick Academy College Counseling Office is to help each child

be successful and gain admittance to his/her choice of school(s). While we recognize that this

expectation is not always possible, we continue to work with the child and his family recommending

various options in this endeavor.

We look forward to working with each of you through the college application process, and

anticipate with high expectations the achievement of our mutual goals. Let’s begin…

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Junior Year

Throughout the year:

Consider your career interests and plan a career path for the future.

Carefully select the most appropriate courses to achieve your goals for the future.

Work on achieving the best academic record possible.

Choose one or two activities to pursue in depth and look for leadership opportunities.

Maintain a record of your extracurricular activities, work experience, and community

service. Imagine your resume. How would it look? Begin to create one on your computer

and update it as your proceed through the upper school.

Monitor announcements of college events and representatives. Try to attend as many sessions

as your schedule and interest will permit.

Explore websites for college information. Consider www.collegeboard.com,

www.vacareerview.org , and other pertinent sites.

Monitor the websites of schools of interest. Attend open houses if possible. Schedule an

appointment with an admissions counselor at the schools of high interest. Request and take a

tour of the campus. Ask pertinent questions. Visit the financial aid office for information. Seek

and obtain scholarship information.

Fall:

In October, travel to Southside Virginia Community College in Alberta, Virginia for College

Day to visit with college representatives and collect helpful materials for college applications.

In October, take the PSAT. The counselor will provide sign-up materials as well as a

preparation booklet at least one week prior to the administration of the PSAT.

Actively use the Internet and the resources in the College Counseling office to explore colleges

that interest you.

Take virtual college tours on the Internet.

Make a list of the schools to which you may want to apply in your senior year.

Winter:

Continue your research through guidebooks and the web.

Schedule an appointment with Mrs. Owen. (It would be helpful to have one or both of your

parents or a guardian, if applicable, to be present for this meeting. In this way we, hopefully,

will all be ―on the same page‖ in terms of planning and expectations.) We shall evaluate your

transcript, update cumulative grade point averages (on both the 100-point scale and the four-

point scale), review your standardized test record and organize an appropriate standardized test

schedule, discuss your career goals and aspirations, discuss your potential college list, learn how

the actual application process will work, and relate other areas of interest.

Continue to update your resume of your activities, service, and work experience. Bring a draft

of this resume to your first appointment.

Continue to make plans to pursue study or interests, to do community service work, or to take a

job.

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Spring:

Participate in career fairs to learn about various careers.

Research career areas. The website, www.vacareerview.org is very helpful.

Continue to research schools of interest.

Print some college applications from websites of interest to see what is expected on an

application.

Prepare a list of colleges/universities that are of interest to you. As you identify these schools,

make your interest known to the institutions via letter or e-mail.

As advised by the athletic director and coaches at Brunswick Academy, write to coaches and

others of special interest.

Visit colleges/universities during Spring Break or at other times as possible.

Note SAT Subject Test (formerly called the SAT II) requirements for schools that interest you

and plan accordingly. Consult this guide, your teachers, and your college counselor about an

appropriate testing program. Register for the tests, particularly the May and/or June tests as

applicable.

Check the Financial Aid requirements for schools that interest you.

Plan a senior year schedule that will be challenging yet still allow you to pursue special

interests.

Schedule a final spring or summer appointment with your counselor to evaluate your transcript,

update cumulative grade point averages (on both the 100-point scale and the four-point scale),

review your standardized test record, discuss your potential college list, and relate other

concerns of interest.

Take the Southside Virginia Community College placement tests for senior year dual

enrollment classes.

Monitor local civic clubs for scholarship information in order to be prepared for the senior year.

Check by Mrs. Owen’s office for forms used by the seniors.

Summer:

Now that you have your SAT scores and your cumulative GPA, continue to develop a three-

tiered list of schools—those at which you are likely to gain admission, those at which you think

you will be competitive for admission, and those which you know are a stretch, but at which

you think you have at least a chance of admission. (Remember, in the final analysis, the

decision as to where you apply is your decision and your parents. Your counselor will assist you

in any way to help you apply wherever you so desire!)

Visit colleges and universities.

Write for applications and financial aid forms or download them from the websites.

If you are planning to apply Early Decision, contact teachers and others to ask for

recommendations as soon as possible. Be sure to inform them of the due date.

If you know which teachers you wish to recommend you, write to them now. Many receive

multiple requests; get yours in early!

Spend some time thinking about the essay you may have to write. A sample of topics is

included in the Essay section of this handbook.

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How Parents Can Help Their Juniors

• Encourage your child to set goals at the beginning of the pre-freshman year to develop the kind of record that

will make possible the widest range of college admission options. While it is true that some students do not

become as serious about their choices until their junior year, the official record (transcript) begins with some

classes taken during the eighth-grade year. The longer a student procrastinates in doing his or her best work, the

harder it becomes to achieve the type of record that might later be desired for the schools of choice.

• Encourage your child to keep a running list of activities and use it both as a record and as a diagnostic tool to

determine further interests to be explored.

• Talk with your child about realistic college options as well as steps in general that students can take to make

those options realities.

• Encourage your child to pursue special interests and to research actively those institutions that offer programs

that will support those interests.

• Attend the PSAT Workshop for students and their parents in December to hear an overview of how the college

counseling process will work and to ask questions.

• Promptly schedule the first college-counseling visit at the beginning of second semester.

• Bring to that visit the completed Parent Questionnaire, a document that is extremely valuable to college

counselors in providing information unique to parents. It is very important in relating information in the letters

of recommendation for your child.

• Make clear to the college counselor any special needs, such as financial constraints or family concerns.

• Support your child’s desire to visit appropriate colleges during free time. If you visit together, let him/her react

before you do!

• Listen to your child. His/her aspirations may be quite different from your own.

• Encourage your child to take responsibility for the admissions process. When counselors or parents are too

directive, students are likely to assume a passive role.

• While the primary relationship is between student and counselor, parents should never hesitate to contact the

counselor to ask questions, seek clarification, or simply to express concern. Phone calls,

e-mails, and office appointments are welcome.

• Help your child structure a productive and interesting summer program.

• Remember that the college admissions picture has changed significantly in recent years. Many institutions are

far more selective than they formerly were!

• If your child seems reluctant to discuss college options or seems disengaged from the process, let Mr. Newsom

or me know. It is usually far more productive for us to intervene than for you to push. We will be certain to let

you know if we are concerned.

• Remember that this is likely to be an anxious topic for everyone. Acknowledging that concern will make it

easier for your child to talk freely about it.

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Suggestions for Senior Year • Meet with your College Counselor within the first month of school to review your list of schools. (Most students apply to

three or four schools. Some students may apply to more. That decision is your choice. It is recommended by many

counselors not to apply to more than ten schools. Some counselors recommend six schools to increase the chances of being

accepted to at least two. We are positive and hope that you will be accepted to all schools to which you apply, but we also

have to be realistic in this time of great competition.)

• Closely monitor all college representatives who are visiting our school as you may be interested in visiting with them for

further information or clarification. Observe postings in the hallway near the guidance and principal’s office for college

information. Keep visiting the websites of the colleges/universities in which you are seriously interested for updates and

further information.

• Remain in active contact with your counselor to address any questions or concerns.

• Visit colleges as your schedule permits. Arrange interviews if the colleges to which you are applying offer them.

• Maintain a current record of your activities, community service, and work experience in the guidance office. Let your

guidance counselor know as you need to update it. (It is also recommended to maintain a record on your computer at

home.)

.

• Make certain you have asked two teachers who know you well to write on your behalf. In general, it is best to ask a junior

or senior year teacher.

• If there are others, such as a coach or an employer who know you well, ask them to submit a letter of recommendation to

be sent by your College Counselor, as well.

• Make absolutely certain that you know the admissions requirements and deadlines for each school to which you are

applying!

• Continue to take standardized tests according to the schedule you have developed with your counselor.

Final Step:

• Submit the FAFSA or CSS College Profile, if you will be applying for Financial Aid.

• Submit to your college counselor a final list of schools, deadlines, and the names of those persons who will write your

recommendations.

• Plan a timetable for completing your applications.

• Give your closest attention to your essays. Make certain that you have gone over them with your college counselor or

English teacher or both before you submit them.

• When possible, apply online. Always print a copy.

• Once the application process is complete, continue to be the kind of student and school citizen that will make you

attractive to the schools to which you have applied.

• Be certain to notify your college counselor of each decision as you learn it. Let those others who wrote for you know of

your acceptances and thank them for their support.

• Once you have received all of your acceptances, reply by May 1 to all of them, indicating your choice. Sample letters are

included in this handbook. This simple step is not only good manners; it may be helpful to those students who apply after

you.

• Let your college counselor know if you wish to remain on a wait list.

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How Parents Can Help Their Seniors

• If you are applying for institutional financial aid, complete the CSS College Profile as promptly as

possible.

• If you are applying for federal financial aid, complete the FAFSA as it becomes available. (Please see

the Financial Aid section.)

• Help your child assume responsibility for the application process by expressing interest, raising

questions, and responding to requests without taking over the process yourself.

• Recognize that the harder we push, the more likely children are to resist. If someone has to be the

heavy, let it be the college counselor.

• Talk with your child about developing a final list of schools. Encourage him/her to be realistic.

• Make plain to your child that you will support every aspect of the process, but that obtaining forms,

distributing them to the appropriate teachers, developing a final resume, writing essays, sending SAT

scores, and observing deadlines are his/her own responsibilities.

• Encourage your child to attend all senior class college meetings promptly and attentively, including

the several informational and organizational meetings.

• Encourage your child to continue to take advantage of the visits of college representatives.

• Encourage your child to share his/her essays with you and with his/her English teacher and/or

the college counselor. Remember, however, that the essays must be the student’s own expression.

• Once the application process is complete, encourage your child to be the kind of student and school

citizen that will make him/her attractive to the colleges to which he/she applied.

• Stay in touch with the college counselor if you have questions or concerns. Let your counselor be of

help.

• Recognize that this is an anxious time for your child, although he/she may not acknowledge it. The

more open we are about expressing a realistic confidence in our students, the more supportive of them

we will be.

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SELECTING A COLLEGE

College selection is a process that requires research as reflected in ―good old hard work.‖ With

over 3,000 colleges and universities in the United States, many choices are available. The sooner you

begin to decide what it is that you wish to gain from your college experience, the more likely you are

to develop a list of schools that is right for you. Your goal is to find a school that is best suited to your

learning style, your goals, and your personal requirements.

Begin this process with an open mind, and take the time to do your research carefully.

Generating a list of schools that will be important to you will be the reward of your hard work. If you

have done your work well, you will be surprised with your selections. You may even have on your list

some schools that you had not heard of before.

To begin your research, consider guidebooks, the web, view books, information sessions held

at school, and other sources that you believe may be helpful. You may wish to consider the

recommendations or opinions of teachers, religious leaders, counselors, doctors, friends, and family

regarding schools.

Let the topics that follow guide your thinking and stimulate questions. Evaluate the information

that you are given. Listed below are questions to consider. The list is not exhaustive; you will have

many more of your own.

1. Location

• Distance from home

In-state or out-of-state school

• Climate

• Size of community - rural, suburban, urban

• Proximity to other colleges, cities, transportation, and cultural opportunities

2. Type

• Public, private, or sectarian

• Four year Liberal Arts

• Comprehensive University

• Engineering or Technical College

• Military School

• Professional School

3. Student Enrollment

• Percentage of graduates to undergraduates

• Size of freshman class

• Male/female ratio

• Percentage of minority students

• Geographic origin of students

• Percentage of Commuter/Resident students

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4. Admission

• Percentage of successful applications

• Mid-50% SAT range—and/or—ACT Composite range

• Testing requirements

• Is admission need blind, or is ability to pay taken into account?

5. Costs and Financial Aid

• Maximum-minimum total costs per year. (In addition to tuition and board, include

fees, books, travel, and other incidental expenses.)

Difference between in-state and out-of-state rates, if applicable.

• Percentage of students with financial aid

6. Academics

• What courses are required?

• What are the requirements for graduation?

• What are the most popular majors?

• Is there an honors program?

• Does the school offer study abroad? Exchange programs? Internships or cooperative

programs?

• What is average class size?

• What percentage of classes is taught by professors? What percentage by teaching

assistants or graduate students?

• How does academic advising work?

• What characterizes the academic atmosphere? (competitive, relaxed, energetic, etc.)

• How is the calendar organized? (semester, trimester, special winter or summer

programs?)

• What kind of support and accommodations are available for students with learning

disabilities?

7. Quality of Life

• What is the freshman attrition rate?

• What is the four year graduation rate?

• What is the percentage of flunk-outs, drop-outs, and transfers?

• How safe is the campus?

8. Living Arrangements

• Percentage of students who live on campus

• Are there sufficient rooms for all interested students?

• How are dormitories organized (coed, single sex, special distinctions: athletic dorms,

honors dorm, language dorms, etc.)

• Are there enforced quiet hours?

• Are most rooms singles, doubles, triples, suites?

• How are freshman roommate selections made? Do you have any input?

• Are students required to eat on campus?

• What food plans are available?

- 10 -

9. Libraries, laboratories and computer access

• How is the library system organized? (one main library or departmentalized by subject

area?)

• Are all resources easily accessible to all students?

• Where do most people study?

• How extensive are the hours for libraries and other facilities?

• Does the library have open stacks? (i.e., can you browse shelves or are you only able

to obtain books by request?)

• How accessible are labs to undergraduates?

• What hours are they available?

• Are computers available to all students?

• Are the dorms networked?

• What are the foreign language computer facilities?

10. Extra-Curricular Life

• How important are athletics to campus life?

• What intercollegiate and intramural sports are offered? How easy or difficult is it to

become involved?

• What are the athletic facilities like? How accessible are they?

• Is there a Greek system? What percentage of students belongs?

• What social activities exist for those who do not join the Greek system?

• What cultural activities take place on campus?

• What facilities exist for theater, art, music, and dance? Are these facilities available to

students outside these majors?

• How many students take advantage of cultural events and other opportunities offered

in the community beyond the college?

• How accessible to students are facilities outside of the college?

• Is the college active in the life of the community (particularly in community service)?

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Useful Publications for Your Research

About the Process: These books provide excellent background material and a context in

which to approach the college search.

Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools You Should Know About Even If You're Not a

Straight-A Student, Loren Pope. (An excellent resource for broadening a college search.)

College Admissions: A Crash Course for Panicked Parents, Sally Rubenstone and Sidonia

Dalby. (Despite the name, this book is useful for students as well as parents.)

50 College Admissions Directors Speak to Parents, Sandra F. MacGowan and Sarah M. McGinty.

Letting Go: A Parents' Guide to Understanding the College Years, Karen Coburn and Madge

Lawrence Treeger.

Looking Beyond the Ivy League, Loren Pope. (An excellent resource for finding colleges outside the

Ivy League schools that provide a similar educational experience.)

Playing the Selective College Admissions Game, Richard Moll. (An especially useful discussion for

parents.)

Questions and Admissions: Reflections on 100,000 Admissions Decisions at Stanford, Jean Fetter.

(This one's probably for those who just want to know more about how the process works.)

Scaling the Ivy Wall, Howard Greene. (Particularly useful for students in learning how to present

themselves to best advantage to highly selective institutions.)

Selecting the Right College: Over 50 Little Known Tips From a College President, Norman

R. Smith. Wagner College Press.

Comprehensive Guides: Among the many such guides, the following are especially useful.

Barron's Profiles of American College

The College Board College Handbook

The Internet Guide for College-Bound Students (published by the College Board)

Lovejoy's College Guide

Peterson’s Guide to American Colleges

Narrative Guides: While these guides are not objective, they are perhaps most helpful in providing

insight into each institution.

The Fiske Guide to Colleges, This is our favorite account of academics, quality of life and social life. It

is easy to read and highly informative, pointing to strongest programs and providing suggestions for

similar institutions.

- 12 -

Rugg's Recommendations on the Colleges. This guide ranks strength of areas of study at a wide variety

of institutions. It provides very useful information for the student who is seeking information about

potential major interests.

Insider's Guide to Colleges: Compiled by Yale students, this one is fun to read, but it is definitely

subjective!

Guides for Special Needs:

College Admissions Index of Majors and Sports

Guide to Performing Arts Programs

The Winning Edge: A Complete Guide to Intercollegiate Athletic Programs

The K & W Guide to Colleges for the Learning Disabled

Guides to Financial Resources:

The Scholarship Book: The Complete Guide to Private-Sector Scholarships, Grants, and

Loans for Undergraduates

Don't Miss Out: The Ambitious Student's Guide to Financial Aid

Useful Web Sites

www.collegeboard.com On this site you can register for tests, send your scores, complete the CSS

Profile, complete a personal inventory to develop a preliminary list of schools, and even find practice

questions for the SAT Reasoning Test (used for college admissions) and SAT Subject Tests (one-hour

achievement tests also used for some colleges, usually for placement in classes, formerly known as

SAT II’s), and find a link to the Fiske Guide. This site is perhaps the best place to begin.

www.usnews.com This site contains links to many colleges and universities, as well as a program that

allows you to compare them.

www.collegenet.com This site allows you to access web pages of many colleges and universities,

learn about financial aid, and even apply to a few schools on-line.

www.commonapp.org This is where you will find the Common Application on line, as well as

information about which schools accept it.

www.campustours.com Here you can find campus maps, virtual tours, and in some instances, web

cams.

www.collegeview.com This site allows you to search for schools by name or criteria.

www.reviews.com The Princeton Review site, it contains abundant information about the tests,

rankings, admission tips, and contains a link to Apply! an on-line application program.

www.C3Apply.com Here you will find college applications, tours, searches, financial aid estimators

and scholarship information.

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VISITING A COLLEGE

1. Plan your visit as far ahead of time as possible.

2. Try to go when the college is in session. If possible, include part of a weekend.

3. Call or e-mail for an appointment with the person who deals with applicants from Brunswick

Academy. Calling is more efficient if you are scheduling visits to more than one college.

4. Be certain to find out when information sessions are held, whether the school hosts overnight

visits, and whether it will be possible for you to visit a class.

5. Try to visit a class in a department you are interested in pursuing and to attend the same type of

class at each college you visit.

6. Come armed with a list of questions.

7. Ask whether the college wants you to bring with you a copy of your transcript, test scores, and

our school profile.

8. Fill out an interest card to let the school know you have visited.

9. And be certain to

• Check out the recreation center.

• Check out the bulletin boards.

• Pick up a copy of the student newspapers.

• Eat a meal where students eat.

• Find out about student transportation and take it if possible.

• Ask to see a dorm room.

• Talk to as many students as possible. Do not let your tour guide be your only source of

information.

• Browse the most recent yearbook, usually found in admissions offices.

• Jot down your impressions when you leave.

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THE INTERVIEW

The purpose of interviews is to give colleges an additional way to evaluate you as a candidate,

to allow you to describe yourself more fully, and to give you the chance to ask questions which have

not been answered by the catalogue or other sources. Although the interview may be important, it is

rarely the most important part of your application, and many schools do not require or offer interviews.

The interview should be a comfortable and helpful exchange of information, not a mutual third-

degree. You are expected to be somewhat nervous, but it should not seem as if you are taking an

examination. Your genuine interest in the school should show. Be honest and sincere. Try to relax and

be yourself. Avoid using vague language (―Like…,‖ ―You know…,‖ ―Sort of…,‖ ―Whatever…!‖) and

try to be precise. If you would like to schedule a mock interview, I would be happy to help. Or, if you

wish, why not consider asking a parent or friend to practice with you!

Before applying to a school, you will naturally want to determine the school’s interview policy.

Interview types may include:

Required Interview: This policy speaks for itself and indicates that the school places weight on the

interview.

Recommended Interview: Often qualified by the word "strongly." If an interview is recommended,

by all means take advantage of this opportunity to enhance your chances of admission. Colleges will

view this as a measure of your genuine interest in the institution.

Voluntary Interview: This interview comes as a result of your initiative and may or may not be given

as a part of your evaluation. Be sure to ascertain whether or not this interview will bear on your

application. Find out if it will be given by an admission officer or a student intern. If given by a

student, it is less likely to receive serious weight, but it may be a very helpful way for you to gain

information and ask questions.

Alumni Interviews: Some students will arrange for you to be interviewed by a local alumnus. Again,

it is very important that you take advantage of this opportunity as an expression of your interest. These

interviews are usually held after you have made application, and generally they carry as much weight

as one held on campus. These interviews will vary in content, as will those with an admissions officer.

- 15 -

Some Guidelines for Preparation for Interviews

• Be on time and make eye contact.

• Go alone. If your parents accompany you to the Admissions Office, they will not be allowed to

be with you during the interview, although they may be invited in for the last few minutes. When you

first meet the admissions officer, introduce your parents.

• Take a current copy of your transcript, test scores, and our school profile. Leave them with the

Admissions Office.

• Be aware of current national, state, and local affairs.

• If asked your opinion, give it and back it up with reasons.

• Try to find a way to mention your strengths -- non-academic as well as academic.

• Be prepared to answer questions about our school, your record, your test scores, your career plans,

your interests, and the contributions you can make to the college.

• Do not ask questions that can be answered by reading the catalogue. Rather use the catalogue as a

springboard for questions. For example, I noticed in your catalogue that you have a debate team.

What other colleges do you compete against? How does one get on the team?

• Do not be afraid to ask questions. It always helps to write them out in advance, even if you do not

refer to them during the interview.

• Feel free to ask about your chances for admission.

Be prepared to answer questions like these:

• Is our school your first choice? (Unless you are applying as an Early Decision candidate, a good

answer would be, "I'm still not sure. I'm here to get more information.")

• What other schools are you interested in?

• Why have you applied to this school, or why are you interested in this school?

• If I were to visit your school for a few days, what would I find is your role in the school community?

What are your most important contributions?

• Where and when do you find yourself most stimulated intellectually?

• What books or articles have made a lasting impression on you or your way of thinking?

• Do you have any contemporary heroes? Any historical ones?

• What have you read, seen, and heard about this school? What rumors can I confirm or deny?

• What are your reactions to various current events?

• What is truly important to you? What are your values and ideals?

• What are your special talents and interests? (If you're not asked this, find a way to work it into the

conversation anyway.)

• What is your over-riding consideration in choosing a school?

• What do you expect to gain from going to college?

• If I could hand you my telephone and let you speak to anyone living, to whom would you want to

talk? Why?

• How would you describe yourself to someone who did not know you?

• If our roles were reversed, what would you like to know about me so that you could make an

intelligent and fair decision on my application?

- 16 -

STANDARDIZED TESTING

The Six Types of Tests

PSAT/NMSQT – Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying

Test

This test is given in October to Brunswick Academy sophomores and juniors. The school

registers all students. The format of the test is the same as the SAT Reasoning Test; therefore, it is a

useful predictor of SAT scores, as well as practice for the test. Sophomores take this test solely to gain

familiarity with this type of standardized testing; their scores do not count. As some of the sophomores

will not yet have studied geometry, their math scores are not indicative of how they will perform in

their junior year. Juniors take the test as a first step in preparing for the SAT Reasoning Test and as a

basis for the National Merit Scholarship competition.

SAT Reasoning Test

This is a three-hour and 45 minute test that measures the core reasoning abilities students need to do

college-level work successfully. These include critical reading skills, mathematical skills, and writing

skills. It is not intended to measure academic achievement, although the test has recently been revised

to follow more closely the high school curriculum. The test is offered on seven dates throughout the

year: October, November, December, January, March or April, May and June. Although there has been

considerable discussion lately about the emphasis placed on this test, most competitive colleges and

universities still require SAT or ACT scores, described below, for admission. The test is administered

by the College Board; when one score is reported, all scores from previous tests are reported. Most

colleges will combine testings and use the highest score the student has achieved in each area to arrive

at a composite score. Most Brunswick Academy students take this test in May or June of their junior

year. Since our exams are in June, some students prefer to test then after a week of preparation and

review. Students should register for this test on-line at www.collegeboard.com.

SAT Subject Tests

These are one-hour achievement tests (previously known as SAT II tests) designed to measure

knowledge and the ability to apply that knowledge in specific subject areas. It is possible to take three

tests on a given test date. Some 4-year colleges require three SAT II tests; many require no SAT II

tests at all. It is imperative that students check the requirements of individual schools in which they are

interested in order to plan an appropriate test program. SAT Subject Tests are offered on several dates

throughout the year, usually (but not always) when the SAT Reasoning Test is given. Tests are offered

in Literature, United States History, World History, Math Level I, Math Level II, Biology, Chemistry,

Physics, French, German, Modern Hebrew, Italian, Latin, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. Not

all SAT Subject Tests are offered on all of the test dates. Check the College Board website or the SAT

Registration Bulletin to be sure when particular tests are offered. The College Board has eliminated

Score Choice, which previously allowed students to decide whether to release their scores for a given

test; all scores are now reported. Students should register on-line at www.collegeboard.com.

- 17 -

ACT – formerly known as the American College Testing Program

An alternative to the SAT Reasoning Test, the ACT tests four academic areas: English,

mathematics, reading, and science. The ACT offers an optional writing test, including an essay. Four

separate scores plus a composite score averaging the tests are reported. This test is commonly required

by public colleges and some private colleges in the Midwest, West and South, and is increasingly

accepted by a wide range of others. Students should check whether the test is acceptable at institutions

to which they are applying, since it can be an appropriate alternative for those who experience trouble

with the SAT Reasoning Test. Students should register for this test via a packet of application

materials from the guidance office or on-line at the ACT web site, www.actstudent.org.

AP - Advanced Placement Tests

The Advanced Placement tests are three-hour examinations based on a full-year college-level

course taken in high school. These tests encompass Biology, Calculus, Chemistry, French, Latin,

Physics, Spanish, Statistics, Modern European and U.S. History. Students enrolled in an AP course are

required to take the appropriate exam. Brunswick Academy does not offer Advanced Placement

Courses.

TOEFL - Test of English as a Foreign Language and ELPT - English Language

Proficiency Test

Students whose first language is not English may be required to take either one of these examinations

to test their readiness to master college work in English. Both tests are administered by the College

Board. The TOEFL may be taken by computer and may be scheduled at any time. The ELPT is offered

in November and January. Students should check the requirements of those colleges to which they

apply.

Which Tests to Take When

Allow two test dates for the SAT Reasoning Test or ACT, one in the spring of the junior year

and one in the fall of the senior year. Only one testing may be necessary if you are satisfied with your

scores the first time. Although you may take the test as many times as you wish, research indicates that

scores do not change much after the third testing. Most colleges will accept your highest composite

score. Plan an appropriate schedule of testing with your college counselor.

Some Suggestions for Signing up for SAT Subject Tests

• Take SAT Subject Tests in the spring of the junior year, or the terminal year of the subject tested. If

you intend to make an early application, you may take tests on the November date, but you will need to

rush your scores to the appropriate institution. If you are applying by regular decision, you may take

tests in January, but once again, you will need to rush your scores to institutions that have a January 1st

deadline.

• Most juniors who take SAT Subject Tests will take them at the May or June testing. Be aware of the

sign-up deadline.

• Before signing up, check to make sure that the colleges in which you are interested require SAT

Subject Tests, and if so, how many they require.

• If you are uncertain where you will be applying, consider taking at least one SAT Subject Test in

order to be on the safe side.

• Always take the test as late in the school year as possible.

• Consult with your college counselor and your subject area teacher about which SAT Subject Tests

would be best for you to take. Following are some guidelines.

- 18 -

Biology: Take this test if you are taking Advanced Biology and earning a B or better.

Chemistry: Take this test if you are in Chemistry and earning a B or better.

French: Take the French Writing SAT Subject Test if you are enrolled in French II or III and earning a

B or better.

Latin: The Latin test is offered only in June and December. Take this test in December if you have

completed Latin II or III with a B or better. Students who are currently enrolled in

Latin and feel strongly that this will be a good SAT Subject Test for them should consider taking it

in June of the junior year and taking the SAT Reasoning Test in May.

Literature: Take this test if you have a solid B or better in English and enjoy analyzing literature.

Math IC: Check the booklet with suggested questions to determine which math test is better for you.

Normally one would take this test if you are in Algebra II, Geometry, or Algebra III/Trigonometry.

Math IIC: Check the booklet with suggested questions to determine which math test is better for you.

Normally one would take this test if you are in Honors Advanced Math or Calculus.

Spanish: The Spanish SAT Subject Test with listening and the Spanish SAT Subject Test without

listening are available. Let your Spanish teacher advise you on which test to take and when.

Spanish testing should be completed in the year in which you finish Spanish II (if NOT taking

Spanish III) or at the conclusion of Spanish III.

U.S. History: Take this test if you are taking U.S. History and earning a B or better.

Extended Time

1. Students who qualify for extended time may apply to take all standardized tests with extended time

by completing the College Board Services for Students with Disabilities Form or the ACT Extended

Time Request Form. Both forms are available in the College Counseling Office and on-line at the

websites of each organization. Forms must be completed eight weeks before the desired test date. A

very complete explanation of requirements to receive extended time is easily accessible at both

websites.

2. When the College Board or American College Testing Service approve the extended time, students

and the school will receive an SSD number and a letter of approval. The approval applies to all tests

given by the organization that has granted it.

3. Please note that separate approval is required for SAT and ACT. They are not interchangeable, and

each requires a separate procedure.

Reminders about Test Taking

1. Check each college for its testing requirements: find out how many and which subject tests are

required and the last date that test results will be accepted for the application.

2. Plan your testing schedule carefully; you cannot take both the SAT Reasoning Test and SAT Subject

Tests on the same date.

3. Note SAT Subject Test dates carefully. Not every subject is offered on every testing date, and

certain subjects are offered on more than one date.

4. Early Decision or Early Action applicants should make every effort to complete SAT Reasoning,

ACT, and SAT Subject Tests as early as possible. Tests may be taken in October and November, and

the scores rushed, but it is preferable to complete the testing as early as possible.

5. We will send any test scores that you have released to us when we send the school portion of your

application, but these scores are unofficial. You are responsible for sending your scores directly to

each college to which you apply, including the NCAA Eligibility Center. College Codes are listed

in the SAT Registration Booklet and on-line at www.collegeboard.com. Scores may easily be released

either by telephone or on the Internet at www.collegeboard.com.

- 19 -

Test Registration

1. Students are encouraged to register for all SAT and ACT tests on line. This procedure is far

more efficient and reliable than using the paper registration form; however, the paper

registration form is available in the guidance office.

2. Our CEEB Number (College Code) is 471-209.

2011-2012 SAT Test Dates and Registration Deadlines

Date Test Regular

Deadline

Late

Deadline

October 1 SAT I & II September 9 September 21

November 5* SAT I & II October 7 October 21

December 3** SAT I & II November 8 November 20

January 28 SAT I & II December 30 January 13

March 10 SAT I February 10 February 24

May 5 SAT I & II April 6 April 20

June 2** SAT I & II May 8 May 22

* SAT II Language with Listening offered on this date

** Latin SAT II offered on this date

Fees for 2011-2012

SAT Reasoning Test (formerly called SAT I) = $49.00

SAT Subject Tests (formerly called SAT II’s)

Basic registration fee = $22.00

Language Test with Listening = add $22.00

All other Subject Tests = add $11.00 each

Other Registration Fees (add to total test fees)

Registration by phone = $15.00

Late registration = $26.00

Standby testing = $43.00

Test center, date, or test change = $25.00

See Registration Bulletin OR on-line information (www.collegeboard.com) for further fees for services.

SAT Score Delivery Dates

Most scores are available online and by phone about three weeks after the test date. Official score reports are delivered

about five weeks after the test. Some scores may take longer to report. Visit sat.collegeboard.org/scores for a list of

approximate score availability dates.

- 20 -

2011-2012 ACT Test Dates and Registration Deadlines

Date Regular Deadline Late Fee Required

*September 11 August 12 August 13-26

October 22 September 16 September 17-30

December 10 November 4 November 5-18

February 11 January 13 January 14-20

April 14 March 9 March 10-23

June 9 May 4 May 10-23

* Only available in AZ, CA, FL, GA, IL, IN, MD, MI, MS, NV, NY, NC, OR, PA, SC,

TN, TX, WA, WV

Fees for 2011-2012

ACT only (NO Writing) = $34.00

ACT Plus Writing = $49.50

Late Registration = Add $21.00 to fee of test you selected

Standby Testing = Add $42.00 to fee of test you selected

See the ACT packet for registration OR on-line information (www.actstudent.org) for further fees for

services.

____________________________________________

FINANCIAL AID

Meeting the rising costs of a college education is a source of concern to many families. Do not

assume that you will not be eligible for financial aid. Nothing is lost by completing the financial aid

forms, and you will certainly receive nothing if you do not engage in the process.

Need-based Aid

Most financial aid is need-based, that is, money that is allocated solely on the basis of a

family's ability to pay college costs. Demonstrated need is determined by a formula which calculates

the difference between what a family is able to contribute and what the college costs will be.

Individual institutions and the federal government use different methods of calculating each family's

ability to pay; consequently demonstrated need and the amount of aid may differ widely from one

institution to another.

It is imperative that students contact the financial aid office of each institution early in the

application process to discuss any special family circumstances and to be absolutely clear about

institutional requirements for application for financial aid. Students who apply for financial aid will be

offered a "package" that may include three forms of aid:

Grants. Grants do not have to be repaid and do not require a service commitment.

Loans. Loans require repayment, but at a very reasonable interest rate. Repayment does not have to

begin until students graduate.

Work-study. This usually takes the form of jobs on campus for a stipulated number of hours a week

with the money earned to be applied to college costs.

- 21 -

How to apply for Aid:

Every family applying for federal financial aid must fill out the Free Application for Federal

Aid (FAFSA). Applications are available in the College Counseling Office and on-line at

www.fafsa.ed.gov. The FAFSA may be submitted as early as January 1, and must be submitted by

May 1. Since money is allocated as demonstrated need is calculated, it is in the family's interest to

submit the FAFSA in as timely a manner as possible.

Students applying to private colleges and universities should also fill out the College

Scholarship Service Profile (CSS Profile). The Profile must be completed by December 31.

Application for the Profile is available in the College Counseling office and on-line at

www.collegeboard.com.

The FAFSA and Profile both ask questions concerning family income, assets, size, and

special circumstances. Obviously, all information must conform to that submitted to the IRS. Some

colleges and universities require additional forms and ask that families submit their federal income tax

returns. Again, be certain to contact the financial aid office of each institution to which you plan

to apply to make certain that you have met all of their requirements.

Sources of Need-Based Aid:

Pell Grants: Available to all US citizens and to eligible non-citizens attending an approved institution

at least half-time as an undergraduate. The amount of the grant is based on a Federal formula that

applies to all students and is calculated annually. No repayment is necessary. A FAFSA must be filed

by May 1 to be considered for this aid.

Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (SEOG): These need-based grants are determined by

individual institutions and are administered by each institution. Priority is given to students with

exceptional need. No repayment is necessary.

Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program (formerly Guaranteed Student Loan

Program) is comprised of the following three loan programs:

Subsidized Stafford Student Loans: Low-interest loans made by the government, a bank a credit union,

or other lenders. A student may borrow $2,625 for the first year; this amount increases incrementally

with each successfully completed subsequent year. This loan must be repaid after graduation, but the

government takes care of the interest payments while you attend school.

Unsubsidized Stafford Loans: Eligibility for these loans is determined by a student's eligibility for a

subsidized or partially unsubsidized loan. For an unsubsidized loan, the student, not the federal

government, pays the interest on the loan while in school. Repayment can be deferred until after

graduation.

PLUS (Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students): A relatively new program that allows families with

a positive credit record to borrow up to the total college cost minus other financial aid. These loans

have a 9% interest cap and are operated through private lenders. They can be increased in each

successive year of college study.

Perkins Student Loan Program: Known as National Direct Student Loans (NDSL) these loans are

determined by the individual institutions and are administered by them. Priority is given to students

with exceptional need. An undergraduate may borrow up to $3,000 a year; interest rates are low and

there is a nine-month grace period before repayment must begin.

- 22 -

Federal Work Study: These funds are pledged to help the student as part of the total financial aid

package and are administered by the individual institutions. Students work part-time during the school

year with all money earned going directly to meet financial need.

Merit-Based Aid:

Merit-based aid is given for talent and achievement of many kinds - academic, athletic,

leadership, and artistic achievement among them. In most cases, an analysis of need is not part

of the process of awarding this money.

Inquire at the Admissions Office and consult the web site and publications of any institution in

which you are interested to see what merit-based awards are available. A number of the web sites listed

below also contain information about merit scholarship opportunities.

Some Questions to Ask College Financial Aid Offices:

• Will applying for financial aid have an impact on your chance of admission?

• What institutional financial aid is available?

• What percentage of financial aid is based on need and what percentage is based on

merit?

• How much do costs generally increase each year?

• Will financial aid be affected if you receive any additional scholarships from outside

organizations?

Scholarship and Financial Aid Web Sites

www.fafsa.ed.gov/. This is the U.S. Department of Education web site which contains the on-line

application for federal aid.

www.ed.gov/finaid.html. Here is the site to turn to for any questions in filling out the FAFSA or in

understanding it.

www.collegeboard.com. The CSS Profile can be downloaded here, and in addition there is a wealth

of scholarship information available.

www.fastweb.com. An extremely helpful site for obtaining financial aid information and searching for

scholarships.

www.absolutelyscholarships.com. A database of over 200,000 scholarships and awards.

www.nslc.org. National student loan clearinghouse.

www.salliemae.com. The web site of the primary independent student aid lender. Provides excellent

information about federal and private loan programs and allows you to forecast costs. Complete the

FAFSA and search for scholarships.

- 23 -

THE APPLICATION

General Advice:

• Obtain applications as soon as possible. Colleges prefer that you download an application

directly from their websites. You may also obtain an application by an e-mail or telephone

request.

• Consider using the Common Application as it is a great time saver. If an institution accepts it,

by all means use it. Part of the Common Application agreement is that institutions will give it

the same weight that they give their own application. A list of institutions that accept the

Common Application is available at the web site www.commonapp.org. . The application can be

downloaded from that site. I also have Common Applications available in the College

Counseling office.

• Check the Common Application to see if the institutions to which you are applying require a

supplement. If they do, request the supplements as soon as possible. Some institutions will not

send the supplement until they have received your initial application.

• Many applications are divided into two parts. The first is simply informational and includes

the application fee. File this part of the application as quickly as possible. As soon as a college

receives this part of the application, it will open a file for you and record your interest. The

sooner your file is open, the better.

• Keep a file of applications. You will find it helpful to start a file for each institution to which

you will apply.

• Be neat! It is always a good idea to photocopy the application before filling it out so that you

can practice.

• Always type or word process.

• Whenever possible, apply on-line!

• Be certain to make copies of all applications, including on-line applications.

Student Obligations:

• Know the exact requirements of each institution to which you will apply.

• Contact the financial aid office of each institution to make certain you know what forms

it requires and to let the staff know of any special circumstances.

• Request recommendations from two teachers, preferably those who have taught you in 11th or

12th grade.

• Complete the top portion of the Secondary School Report Form and the Teacher

Recommendation Forms and give these forms to the appropriate people.

- 24 -

• Complete Parts I and II of the application. In general, this will include biographical

information, some sort of resume of activities and interests, and one or more essays.

• Make certain that you have carefully proofread every part of your application. Let

someone else go over your applications with you! Accuracy, neatness, and mechanical and

grammatical correctness are imperative!

• Contact ETS to send your standardized test scores to each institution.

• Let your college counselor know as soon as you have filed an application.

• Make a copy of each application that you send.

• If you decide not to pursue an application on your list, let your college counselor know

immediately.

School obligations:

• To complete the School Report Form, including a Counselor's Statement.

• To send the official transcript.

• To send a photocopy of all standardized testing of which we have a record.

• To send all teacher recommendation forms and letters.

• To include a Brunswick Academy School Profile with each application you send.

• To send mid-year grades to each college to which you have applied.

• To send a final official transcript to the final choice college.

As a courtesy to students who may wish the application to be sent as a complete package, I shall

assume the responsibility of sending the entire application, including the student portions, if I receive

the appropriate documents no later than two weeks before the due date.

- 25 -

STUDENT ATHLETES

• Students who may be recruited athletes must fill out the NCAA Eligibility Center Form in

order to be eligible for campus visits and scholarship offers.

• Once you have completed the Eligibility Center Form, available online at

www.eligibilitycenter.org. print out the transcript release form and give it to your college

counselor immediately. I shall send then send your transcript through junior year. I shall send

your final transcript when you have graduated to insure your college eligibility.

• If you have ever attended any other high school besides Brunswick Academy, I must

submit a copy of that transcript, as well. Make certain that the school has that transcript.

• YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR SENDING YOUR STANDARDIZED TEST SCORES TO

THE NCAA THROUGH THE COLLEGE BOARD. THE CEEB CODE NUMBER FOR THE

ELIGIBILITY CENTER IS 9999.

• Work closely with your coach to determine those institutions that are appropriate for you

athletically and with your college counselor to determine those institutions that are appropriate

for you academically.

• Contact those coaches in whose programs you are interested. This can easily be done by

e-mail, using the form letter that follows.

• The school will send a transcript, a photocopy of any standardized testing you have

completed, and a School Profile to any college coach who requests these documents.

• Many coaches encourage recruited athletes to apply Early Decision. Only do so if you are

100% certain that a particular college is your first choice.

• Because of the likelihood of an Early Application, athletes should request recommendations

from teachers as early as possible.

• Keep your college counselor informed of all official visits you take and of your status at each

institution. We can more effectively be your advocate if you keep us fully informed.

• If a coach asks you to commit yourself before you are ready to do so, or if you are genuinely

unsure about whether or not you want to commit, we urge you to talk to your counselor before

responding. We can help you think through your decision, and frequently we can intervene for

you through the admissions office.

• REMEMBER: Admissions decisions are made by admissions offices, not by college coaches.

You cannot count on an offer of admission until you have received it officially. Be skeptical

about any promises made to you, and remember that coaches sometimes change their minds.

- 26 -

TYPES OF COLLEGE DECISIONS

EARLY ADMISSION: This is a highly unusual plan in which a student who is absolutely sure of his

or her college choice may apply in the spring of junior year. The decision is usually made within six

weeks, and it is most often a binding decision. Very few institutions offer this plan.

EARLY DECISION: Most colleges offer a plan by which students apply before the regular deadline

and are notified within six weeks of the decision. November 1, or 15, are the most common deadlines

for Early Decision applications, but some colleges use other deadlines and some have more than one

Early deadline, so it is imperative that you check this information carefully. Early Decision

applications are binding. You may not apply for Early Decision at more than one institution. Early

Decision is a good option for those whose records are as strong as they are likely to be and who are

absolutely certain of their college choice. It is not a good option if you have any uncertainty about your

choice. Early Decision applicants may be accepted, denied, or deferred for consideration with the

regular applicant pool.

EARLY ACTION: Some colleges offer a plan by which students may apply early and are notified

within six weeks of the decision. The deadline for this type of application is usually November 1, but

again it is wise to check carefully. Early Action is not a binding decision, and some institutions allow

you to submit more than one Early Action application. Some institutions have implemented a Single

Choice Early Action plan under which you may only apply to that school. Be certain to check the

requirements of your schools. You may not apply Early Action at one institution and Early Decision at

another. If your record is as strong as it is likely to be, this is a good plan to consider since it allows

you to continue the application process. Early Action applicants may be accepted, denied, or deferred

for consideration with the regular applicant pool.

ROLLING ADMISSION: Under this plan, Admissions Committees meet and make decisions at

regular intervals throughout the year. Usually you will receive a decision within four weeks after the

college receives all parts of your application. Your chances for admission are greater the earlier you

apply, because institutions that use this plan fill their classes as they receive applications.

REGULAR DECISION: Under this plan, you apply by a stated deadline (usually in January or

February) and you are notified by a stated date (usually April 15).

For all applications, be very certain to determine whether the stated deadline is a postmark date or an

actual date.

Please note that at Brunswick Academy, we recommend that ALL applications be submitted by no later

that December 7th

unless there is a compelling reason for so doing. If you have questions about this

recommendation, call Mrs. Owen at 434.848.2220.

- 27 -

SAMPLE LETTERS FOR STUDENTS

Always include your name, address, e-mail address, and the date in the upper right hand corner of your

letter. You may write either by e-mail or regular mail.

Request for Information from a College or University

To the Admissions Office of ________________,

I am currently a ______________ at Brunswick Academy in Lawrenceville, Virginia and am

beginning to investigate colleges to which I might consider visiting or applying. I have been

researching schools and I believe that _____________ is a school that might be a good fit for me.

Would you please send me a catalogue and any other information that would be helpful to me

in my search? Thank you for your assistance.

Sincerely,

_______________________________________________________________________

Request for Information from a Coach

Dear Coach _____________:

I am a ____________ at Brunswick Academy and am a member of the varsity ___________

team. I have heard about the ________________ team at your school and would like to learn more

about your program and to visit _______________ if possible. I am interested in a college that will

provide me with a strong academic program and the opportunity to play competitive intercollegiate

athletics.

For the past ____________ years, I have played ________________at the _______________

(position)

level. In addition I have attended numerous camps and clinics during the summer. Through these

experiences, I believe I have developed the skills necessary to make a valuable contribution to your

team. My coach, ______________, would be happy to discuss my experience with you. I have

enclosed a brief resume of my achievements. Thank you for your assistance.

Sincerely,

- 28 -

Request for Information from a Special Interest Person

Dear Professor Expert:

I am a _________________ at Brunswick Academy and have heard about the ______________

department at your school. I am looking for a college where I might continue my extensive

involvement in _______________. I have actively pursued my interest in _____________ both inside

and outside the classroom and expect ______________ to be an important part of my college

experience.

I am enclosing a resume of work I have done in _______________ [and a portfolio, tape, etc.

of some of my recent work]. I am hoping to visit your campus in ______________ and would like to

meet with you if possible. I have surveyed your (web page, catalogue, etc) and would appreciate any

additional information you might send me.

Sincerely,

________________________________________________________________________

Accepting or Rejecting an Offer of Admission

To the Admissions Office of ________________

Thank you very much for your letter accepting me as a member of the class of 200_. I am

happy to say that I would like to accept that offer and that I intend to matriculate at _____________ in

the fall. (or I am sorry to say that I have decided to attend ____________ instead.)

Thank you very much for all your help during the admissions process, especially to ______________

who was especially helpful throughout the process (if relevant). I am looking forward to the next four

years (if you accept) or I have enjoyed getting to know ____________ (if you decline).

Sincerely,

Please note. Colleges take notice of manners. It is extremely important for those who follow you that

you acknowledge each offer of admission and respond to it.

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SAMPLE RESUME

General Information

Name:

Address:

E-mail address:

Date of Birth:

Social Security Number:

Year in School:

Anticipated Graduation Date:

Parents Names:

Parents' Phone and Address (if different from your own):

School Information

Name:

Address:

Phone and Fax Numbers:

Name of College Counselor:

Academic Information

GPA:

SAT I or SAT Reasoning Scores:

SAT II or SAT Subject Scores:

Honors Courses:

Dual Enrollment Courses:

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Extracurricular Activities

(include only major activities)

Community Service

Honors and Awards

Special Skills

Summer Experiences

Athletic Information*

Sport:

Years played and level:

Position:

Director of Athletics:

Director of Athletics Telephone: 434.848.3779

Upper School Coach:

Upper School Coach Telephone: 434.848.2220

Summer or Other Coach:

Summer Coach Telephone:

*include if relevant

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WORK SHEET FOR BUILDING A RESUME

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Activity Grade

Level

Hours

/wk

Wks

/yr Positions Held

ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION

Sport/team Grade

Level

Time

Spent Positions held Honors won

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WORK EXPERIENCE AND COMMUNITY SERVICE

Activity Grade

Level

Time

Committed Positions held

HONORS AND AWARDS

Honor or Award/Conferring Organization (ex. Student of the Month/Student Council Organization)

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WRITING THE COLLEGE ESSAY

Some schools require the completion of an essay. The essay is at the heart of these schools’

college applications. You should give the essay your closest attention and use it as a way to

demonstrate not only who you are and what you value but what kind of a writer you are, as well. Listed

below are possible essay questions. Take seriously the suggestion to read over these questions and

begin to think about them long before you actually sit down to write the essay. You will be surprised

how much ruminating in advance will help you when it comes time actually to face the moment of

truth. Here are some important points to keep in mind.

• Be yourself.

• Use your own style.

• Plan an essay that is at least one single-spaced page and not more than two.

• Do not write on a subject that you think will impress the college. Write on a subject that

means something to you.

• Colleges want to know who you are. They want to know something about your character and

how it was formed. Your essay should let them see you as you really are, not as you think they

might want to see you.

• If you want to take on a controversial topic, it is probably best to run it by your counselor

first.

• Colleges receive many, many essays about moments of great athletic achievement and

summer trips to Europe. Avoid these topics if you can, and similarly avoid any reference that

will make you sound elitist.

• Do not skimp on the short questions; they are often important.

• Use the first person.

• Leave plenty of time for revision.

• Avoid the passive voice!

• Write at least two drafts of your essay and ask others for their opinions. In addition to your

own English teacher and the college counselor, every member of the English Department will

be happy to work with you (as will many other of your teachers).

• Correct your essay until it is as mechanically correct as you are able to make it. Do not submit

it with any misspelled words, typographical errors, or grammatical mistakes.

• If you are asked an open-ended question, you may wish to present something in addition to

the essay that expresses your talents: an original poem, an original music composition,

drawings, or photographs. If you do submit this type of material, find out whether it should be

sent to the Admissions Office or to the specific department within the college.

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Typical Essay Questions

1. What political office would you like to hold, and why?

2. Describe a situation in which your beliefs or values were challenged. How did you react?

3. We live with an increasingly global perspective. How will your current knowledge of

international issues and cultures influence your undergraduate study?

5. Write a short autobiography stressing the aspects of your life that are most meaningful for you.

6. How did you become interested in XYZ University? Why is XYZ University the right one for

you?

7. Drawing on your family/personal circumstances, tell us what you want us to know about you.

8. Discuss some issues of local, national, or international concern and its importance to you.

9. Indicate a person who has had a significant influence on you, and describe that influence.

10. What plan would you make to improve race relations in the 21st century?

11. Discuss ways that diversity has a positive influence on academics and culture. How will you be

able to contribute in this regard in the college environment?

12. What book has influenced you most and why?

13. What mystery do you wish you knew the answer to?

14. What is your favorite word, and why?

15. Describe a fictional character, an historical character, or a creative work (art, music, science)

that has had an influence on you, and explain that influence.

16. Of all your extracurricular activities, which is most meaningful to you? Why?

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WAIT-LISTING, TRANSFERRING, OR TAKING A YEAR OFF

Wait-Listing:

• It is imperative that a student let me know as quickly as possible if he/she has been wait-listed

at a school he/she wishes to attend.

• We work closely with families to consider other options for wait-listed students, including

transfer after the freshman year.

• We actively support wait-listed applicants by determining as clearly as we are able how

realistic the chances of admission are; by continuing to support the application through contact

with the admissions office via telephone calls, additional letters of recommendation, and

updated student information; and by encouraging students to let their interest be known though

the submission of additional information, including a statement of interest and any academic

work of particular merit.

Transferring:

• The College Counseling office regularly assists students who wish to transfer or who wish to

apply to college after they have graduated.

• I am available to meet with students for additional counseling after they have graduated.

Should a student request my assistance, I shall send credentials, including letters of

recommendation, transcripts, and the record of testing to any institution a student requests. We

are also happy to assist students as they research requirements for transfer admission.

Taking a year off:

• We recognize that not every student is immediately ready to attend college.

• We are happy to assist students as they research other programs and to provide additional

information as needed.

• We assist in the application for a post-graduate year for appropriate students.

(Please note that the references to ―we‖ refer to Mr. Newsom and Mrs. Owen. The references to

―I‖/‖me‖ refer only to Mrs. Owen.)

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USEFUL INFORMATION

Administration: Mr. C. Brad Farmer, Head of School

Mr. F. D. Newsom, Assistant Head of School

Guidance: Mrs. Deborah Owen, Director of Guidance

Admissions: Mrs. Fleet Roberts, Director of Admissions

Athletics: Mrs. Karen Neher, Athletic Director

School Address: Brunswick Academy

2100 Planters Road

Lawrenceville, VA 23868-9742

School Telephone Numbers: 434.848.2220

434.848.3779

434.848.3818

School Fax Numbers: 434.848.4729 (Main Office)

434.848.0950 (Guidance Office)

School Code (for ACT and SAT Testing): 471-209

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Brunswick Academy Association 2100 Planters Road

Lawrenceville, Virginia 23868-9742

Phone: (434) 848-2220 Fax: (434) 848-0950

E-mail: owend@brunswickacademy.com

PROFILE Brunswick Academy

Brunswick Academy is an independent educational day facility offering Early Learning

Programs (ages three and four years) through the twelfth grade. Located in historic Brunswick County

near Lawrenceville, Virginia, Brunswick Academy is accredited by the Virginia Independent Schools

Association (VAIS).

Curriculum

Brunswick Academy Primary, Elementary, and Middle Schools

Brunswick Academy Primary School includes students in the Early Learning Program (ages

three and four years) through Grade 2. Brunswick Academy Elementary School includes Grades 3-5

and Brunswick Academy Middle School includes Grades 6-8. In the Brunswick Academy Primary and

Elementary Schools, major emphasis is placed on language arts and mathematics. The curriculum is

enhanced by appropriate courses in science, social studies, music, art, computer science, and physical

education. The Early Learning classes through third-grade classes are self-contained. Grades four

through eight are departmentalized.

Brunswick Academy Upper School

The program in the Brunswick Academy Upper School offers much diversification to prepare

students for college or for entering the job market. The upper school curriculum includes:

English – Survey of Grammar and Introduction to Literature (formerly English 9), Survey of

Literature (formerly English 10), Honors World Literature (formerly Honors English 10), Survey of

American Literature (formerly English 11), Honors American Literature (formerly Honors English

11), Survey of British Literature (formerly English 12), Honors British Literature (formerly Honors

English 12), Etymology and Composition, Film Appreciation, Critique, and Written Analysis, and

English Grammar and Composition (a college dual-enrollment class giving ENG 111-112 college

credit);

Foreign Language – Five years of Spanish and Latin are taught on site.

Mathematics – Business Math, Introduction to Algebra, Algebra A (reviews basic

mathematical concepts, Pre-Algebra, and covers a portion of Algebra I), Algebra B (covers a review of

the first portion of Algebra I and completes the second portion of Algebra I. If possible, students begin

Algebra II concepts.), Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Algebra III/Trigonometry, Honors Liberal Arts

Math, Honors Advanced Mathematics, and Calculus (a college dual-enrollment class giving MTH 273-

274 credit);

Science – Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Advanced Biology (a college

dual-enrollment class giving BIO 101-102 and BIO Lab101-102 credit);

Social Studies – World Studies, World History, United States History, Government, and

Advanced Government (a college dual-enrollment class giving PLS 211-212 college credit);

Physical Education –Physical Education 8 (with First Aid) and Physical Education 9 (with

Driver’s Ed.);

Business Education – Introduction to Business, Accounting I, Accounting II, Business Law,

Personal Finance, Introduction to Marketing, and Economics;

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Computer Science – Computer Applications

Fine Arts – Chorus, Art, and Fine Arts (required for freshmen beginning in 2006-07 school

year)

Other – Yearbook, AgriScience A, AgriScience B

Grading Scale

The grading scale for Brunswick Academy is as follows:

A = 95-100

B = 88-94

C = 81-87

D = 75-80

F = below 75

Ninth-grade level courses and above count toward credit for graduation. The only exception to

this is PE 8.

Honors Courses and Dual Enrollment Courses

Honors courses include Honors World Literature, Honors American Literature, Honors British

Literature, Honors Liberal Arts Math, and Honors Advanced Mathematics. Seven points are added to

the numerical grade of each of these courses. Dual Enrollment courses, through Southside Virginia

Community College, include Calculus, Advanced Biology, English Grammar and Composition, and

Advanced Government.. The final numerical college grade is converted to the equivalent grade on the

B.A. grading scale, and seven points are added to that numerical grade.

Statistical Calculations

Statistical calculations of the student’s transcript are as follows:

1. Numerical Grade Average (based on a 100-point scale) is derived by adding each of

the semester numerical grades and dividing accordingly. This figure is placed in the

upper-left corner of the transcript (near the name of the student). Class ranking is

based on this figure.

2. Grade Point Average is based on converting semester numbers to a 4-point scale

and following the procedure given above.

A = 4.0

B = 3.0

` C = 2.0

D = 1.0

F = no quality points

If a semester grade is 102 or higher (due to the addition of 7 points for honors classes and dual-

enrollment classes), the grade value is computed at 5.0. The GPA is placed on the transcript to the left

of the word ―Subjects.‖

September, 2011

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