Adhering to the multiple deadlines inherent in the college admission process is a significant responsibility that we expect our students to manage. The college counseling office will inform, guide, counsel, suggest, facilitate, recommend and refer. In the end, it is the student’s decision where to apply, what to write in essays, and who to ask for recommendations. Students are responsible for submitting applications, registering for tests on time, requesting teacher recommendations, and completing their portion of those forms. The college counselor will be diligent about keeping them informed of deadlines and reminding them of important dates but will not assume responsibility for students–nor should their parents. To do otherwise would limit the developmental progression that is so critical to the college admission process.

When aiding students in creating a college list, the college counseling office will be straightforward and honest in our assessment of their chances for admission, as anything else would be a disservice. We want our families to have accurate information as decisions are made. As well, parents should be voices of reason and reality in their expectations and financial ability to afford college. Students who are happiest about the college process are those who comprehend their abilities and needs best and subsequently are able to find schools that make the right fit. They have researched their lists well, asked the tough questions, and, as a result, have found a school they can truly embrace. Students who listen to their hearts and their heads and let insight, not college rankings, guide them, will be happiest.

The college counseling office will urge the adults (parents, counselors, teachers, coaches) in a student’s life to provide an atmosphere that allows each to find a unique voice through the course of the college search. Regular, open and honest communication between counselors, students and parents is crucial to a rewarding and ultimately successful year. We recommend parental input as long as the student remains in the driver’s seat. The parent role is one of encouragement. Along with the counselor, parents represent the supporting cast as sounding boards and advice-givers.

Each year, Vail Mountain School hosts a College Open House on campus in the fall. This event is free and open to the public. There is no registration necessary to attend. This important and informational college fair is a “must” for every senior and junior. Colleges that have attended in the past include University of the Pacific, St. Olaf College, Bowdoin College, Colgate University, Vanderbilt University, University of Denver, Colby College, Southern Methodist University, Santa Clara University, University of Redlands, Colorado State University, University of Puget Sound, University of the Pacific, Lewis and Clark College, Bates College, Fort Lewis College, Western Washington University, Seattle University, University of Colorado, Chapman University, University of Rochester, Gettysburg College, Boston University, Bentley University, Wittenberg University, Gonzaga University, Western State College, and Stanford University.