Freshman:
101: Welcome to High School
Early in the first semester, the college counselors meet with the freshmen class to discuss how course selection and sequence can positively impact their high school career and college admission process. Sharon Wang, who is responsible for academic counseling in 9th and 10th grades, asks the freshmen to reflect upon all aspects of their middle school years and encourages them to establish an intentional academic and extracurricular approach in the upper school. This meeting is sponsored jointly by the College Counseling Office and Dean’s Office.
Sophomores:
201: The Road to College, part 1
During the first semester, sophomores are reintroduced to the college counseling office and the college admission process. The college counselors also use this session to review the Red Raider Road Trip; a campus visit program offered for sophomores and juniors.
202: The Road to College, part 2
This second semester session focuses on those components of the college admission process that students can directly affect or control. Topics include academic and test performance, community involvement, and extracurricular participation. The college counselors also discuss the criteria colleges and universities weigh when making admission decisions.
203: The Road to College, part 3
Sophomores establish an account with Naviance, the internet software program that houses our complete admissions data. Naviance allows students to research all of the nooks and crannies of the admission search and selection process. Sophomores also have the opportunity to complete the “Do What You Are” component of the website, which is based on Holland's interest codes.
Juniors:
301 – 302: Introduction to College Admission
This two-session class covers the broad aspects of the college admission process. Important topics like admission jargon, financial aid, the Academic Common Market, predictability of admission, and the Tennessee and Georgia Hope Scholarships are covered. The college counselors also begin to reinforce the importance of “fit” when identifying potential colleges and universities.
303: SAT and ACT Registration
Counselors direct students on how to register for standardized testing required by colleges. Registration forms are initiated online and students are able to finish them later if necessary.
304: College Student Panel
First hand advice on the college admission process from recent Baylor graduates who are currently attending a four-year institution.
305 - 307 The College Admissions Process, an in-depth review
These sessions cover the components of the college admission process including standardized testing, teacher and counselor letters of recommendation, essays, review of the high school transcript, the campus visit, financial aid and scholarships, tips for working with your college counselor, résumés, athletic recruiting, tips for making the most of a college fair, and the college interview.
Seniors:
401 – 402: Application Details
The first two senior meetings include final details vital to the admissions process; seniors meet in groups with their assigned college counselor.
403: Final Decisions
Seniors meet with the college counselors and administrative support staff to complete paperwork related to their final college choice and the merit scholarships they have received.