The most significant portion of the meeting was the detailed presentation on college planning, which included insights into the various tasks and timelines students and parents need to be aware of as they navigate the college admissions process. Counselors emphasized the importance of early preparation and provided an overview of the steps involved, from researching colleges and developing a list of potential institutions to visiting campuses and preparing application materials. They introduced Naviance, a platform designed to assist students in researching colleges by providing data from past Kinnelon students’ admissions, and stressed its role in helping students explore potential career paths through assessments.

Attention was also given to the different types of admission plans available, such as regular decision, rolling admission, early action, single-choice restrictive early action, and early decision. Each plan has its own set of deadlines and implications, with early decision agreements requiring a binding commitment to attend if accepted. The counselors highlighted the necessity for families to carefully consider these options and align their decisions with the student’s goals and circumstances.

Significant emphasis was placed on the evolving landscape of standardized testing. The meeting addressed the increasing number of colleges adopting test-optional policies, which allow students to decide whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. Additionally, some institutions conduct blind reviews, not considering test scores at all. Attendees were advised to stay informed about specific colleges’ testing policies, which may change annually.

A notable aspect of the meeting was the acknowledgment of undecided students and those considering non-college paths. The counselors discussed how many colleges offer programs that allow undecided students to take core classes while receiving support to choose their academic paths. They also highlighted how the school supports various post-secondary options, including military service, vocational training, employment, and gap years.

The meeting included a discussion on the importance of presenting oneself well in college applications. Counselors advised students to maintain a clear, organized spreadsheet of college requirements, especially those pursuing artistic or performance avenues, where portfolio submissions might vary. The role of social media in the admissions process was also addressed, with a strong recommendation for students to curate their online presence, as colleges often review applicants’ social media profiles.

Further, the session covered the necessity of clean and professional communication. Students were encouraged to use appropriate email addresses for college correspondence. This advice was part of a broader emphasis on personal presentation, particularly when interacting with potential colleges.

Additionally, the college application process for student-athletes was discussed. Juniors interested in pursuing college athletics were urged to register with the NCAA and complete prospective athlete questionnaires, as recruitment processes can begin early.

Financial aid was another topic. The counselors explained that alongside the FAFSA, some private colleges require the CSS profile, an additional application providing more detailed financial information. The complexities of these applications were acknowledged, with counselors humorously referring to the College Board as an “evil empire” due to its extensive control over standardized testing.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing guidance, as counselors planned to send invitations for individual meetings with students and parents. These sessions aim to provide tailored support, helping families navigate the various aspects of the college application process while considering all post-secondary options.