Upper School


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College Search Process

Though the formal college search process begins during the junior year, it really starts when students are freshmen. Ninth and tenth-grade students concentrate on establishing their academic record and creating a “story” they want to share on college applications. When juniors begin researching and visiting colleges, seniors are busy with the application process.

Freshman Year

  • Get organized to study, study, study! Earning the best grades you can in your ninth grade year will help you throughout your Upper School experience.
  • Use a calendar or planner to help you get organized.
  • Make it a point to get to know your teachers. Spend time with them outside of class, especially if you have questions about your work.
  • Ask your academic advisor about your courses for the next couple of years. What does it take to place into an honors course next year in your areas of strength?
  • Talk with your academic advisor about your hopes for Upper School. What is the “story" you want to write about yourself when you’re applying to colleges your senior year?
  • Decide on a couple of activities that are interesting and fun for you. Test out some new activities that you’ve never tried before. 
  • Try something altruistic, for the betterment of your school and/or community. Volunteering in an area you already have an interest in makes the most sense.
  • Do you love a sport so much that you think you might want to play in college? Check out the NCAA requirements online.
  • Read for pleasure.
  • Think about your summer. What kinds of experiences could you put together during your summer that would be fulfilling for you? 

Finding a Good Fit

A "good fit" is the primary criterion for choosing a college. Our counselors work with families to arm them with information and programs about colleges and the search process to ultimately help find a good fit for each student.

  • More than 115 college admissions officers visit CCDS each year, giving students overviews of the schools they represent and general information about the college application process.
  • The school sponsors events such as the Junior College Forum and Independent Schools' College Fair, which focus on topics such as the college admissions process, athletic recruiting, and financial aid.
  • Our college counselors maintain close contact with colleges and universities across the nation, visiting campuses throughout the year and attending annual conferences with colleagues in college admissions.