Welcome
At Friends Seminary, the college counseling program supports students as they prepare for higher education or other meaningful post-graduate pathways.
Guided by Quaker values of reflection, integrity, and thoughtful discernment, the process encourages students to approach this next chapter with curiosity, confidence, and clarity about who they are and who they hope to become.
“College is a match to be made not a prize to be won.”
- Frank Sachs
College Counselor at The Blake School, Minnesota
Philosophy
Applying to college is more than completing forms or meeting deadlines—it is a sustained process of self-exploration. Students consider their interests, strengths, values, and aspirations. They ask who they are now, who they are becoming, and how they might contribute to the wider world.
The college search functions as an extended research project. Students learn to identify and assess their priorities, weigh options, craft thoughtful questions, and make significant decisions with growing confidence. At Friends, we emphasize that how students navigate this process is just as important as where they ultimately enroll.
Students are encouraged not to view high school as a means to a single end or a brand-name destination, but to focus on discovering environments where they will thrive intellectually, personally, and socially.
A Process of Discovery
We encourage students to focus on finding the "right college match;" the environment in which that particular student will thrive intellectually, personally and socially. Much of the spring semester of the Junior Seminar will be focused on self-evaluation to help students better understand themselves and their goals. Ultimately, the students who are happiest about the college process and their placement are those who understand their abilities and needs best, and who are, therefore, able to focus on finding a college or university which fits these criteria.
Though college counseling at Friends Seminary is intended to be as individualized as possible, there are also a number of group activities for students and parents including weekly College Seminar classes and larger presentations.
Roles
Student
The student role is by far the most important one in the college search. After all, they are the ones who will be living, studying, and socializing on these campuses for the next four years. It is paramount that the student’s interests and thoughts be foremost in this process. In the end, the students must be the ones to make decisions about where to apply, what to write in essays, whom to ask for recommendations, and the like.
Throughout the entire process, Friends Seminary students are encouraged to approach the college search with openness—willing to question assumptions, consider new possibilities, and reflect honestly on what kind of college environment will allow them to grow.
Students also have the challenging task of learning to balance the added responsibility of the college process with their usual academic and extracurricular commitments. Inevitably there will be crunch periods which will test everyone’s stamina and sanity, but if students stay focused and organized, and ask for help when they need it, they will find success.
Parents
The importance of the parent role in this process cannot be overstated. We count on you to provide constructive help and encouragement throughout the process. This includes everything from lengthy drives to visit campuses to being the soundboard for your child’s frustration and the voice that constantly reaffirms how wonderful they each are.
One of the most significant ways that parents can help their children is by approaching this process with an open mind (about colleges and about your child’s ability and accomplishments). Just as there is no such thing as a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ child, there are not ‘good’ and ‘bad’ colleges. Help your child explore colleges that are appropriate for them academically, personally and in terms of admissibility.
Ultimately, we hope that parents understand the educational value in letting their children take charge of this process. The skills, independence and confidence that students gain from spearheading this process will serve them well in their college careers.
Counselors
The college counselors have two primary roles in this process: advisor and advocate. The counselors are here to advise students and parents on the practical aspects of researching, selecting, and applying to college. The college counselors also act as advocates for each student both in writing (the School Letter of Recommendation) and in other ways throughout the application process. Finally, the counselors are responsible for ensuring that each student develops a well-balanced college list.
While the decisions made in college admission offices are beyond our control, we can offer strategic guidance and can help our students put forth applications of which they feel truly proud. If we all work together as a team, led by the student, this should be a positive and productive experience. We are excited to begin our work together!
College Admissions Timeline
A Month-by-Month Breakdown to Follow
Note: A timeline covering July 2027 through June 2028 will be provided in the spring.
December
Individual student & counselor meetings begin.
February
Organize college visits (if available) during Presidents Weekend (Feb. 13-16).
Register for March 6 SAT by Feb. 19.
Virtual Parent Coffee | Wednesday, Feb. 24 from 8- 9 AM.
Feb. 27 ACT.
Arrange a student-parent conference with your counselor before May 1. Appointments can be scheduled through Alyssa Zierenberg by phone or email.
Start planning your summer activities.
April
April 10 ACT.
Register for the May 1 SAT by April 16.
College Fair at UNIS Monday, April 26.
Finalize your summer activities.
Arrange a student-parent conference with your counselor before May 1. Appointments can be scheduled through Alyssa Zierenberg by phone or email.
June
June 5 SAT.
June 12 ACT.
Tuesday, June 15 Last Day of School.
Begin your summer course, job, or community service project.
Schedule summer and fall college visits asking for interviews.
November
Financing a College Education | Nov. 4
Junior College Night | Nov. 11
Determine your standardized testing plan and preparation options for the spring.
March
Register for the April 10 ACT by March 5.
March 6 SAT.
Plan your summer activities.
Arrange a student-parent conference with your counselor before May 1. Appointments can be scheduled through Alyssa Zierenberg by phone or email.
Spring Break: Monday, March 15- Friday, March 26. College visits are strongly recommended during the break.
May
May 1 SAT.
AP Exams are administered from May 3-14.
Register for the June 12 ACT by May 7.
Virtual Parent Coffee | Wednesday, May 19 from 8- 9 AM.
Register for the June 5 SAT by May 21.