By Ben Adovasio ’25
Here at The Frederick Gunn School, the College Counseling Office begins preparing students for their post-graduation plans as soon as they arrive on campus. Underclassmen focus on adjusting to the school, getting involved in clubs and activities that interest them, and maturing as a student. Starting in a student’s junior year, the Gunn College Counseling Office begins helping students think about what they want to do once they graduate and help them plan toward their goals.
Mr. Sheikh described the college counseling process as a “Holistic, step-by-step, intentional approach over a four-year journey,” with the college counselors being flexible to help students achieve their goals. He explained, “Whether students are recruited athletes, ahead in the college process, or have inconsistencies in their academic profile, we still take the same approach in their own individual college application process.”
With four college counselors for a senior class of just over 100 students, each student gets valuable one-on-one time with their counselor, who helps guide them through the process.
The question of where to go to college is an important one but is also a difficult one to answer. Mr. Sheikh explains. “There are a thousand different things to look for in a college. While there might be no perfect option, students should think about what they value, and make sure any college on your list meets those values. Students should also be honest with themselves about their academic profile. We want students to hear yes and have options.”
With Gunn offering a “holistic, comprehensive approach” to college admissions, students have many resources to help them in their college search and CCO wants students to be excited about the college process and feel supported throughout.
