College Guidance

The College Guidance process begins with individual and group meetings for ESD students and parents in the ninth grade year. The purpose of these initial meetings is to discuss Upper School curriculum planning, standardized test preparation, and extracurricular activities which will enhance the student's experience and college application. The more time students invest in the process with our experienced college guidance counselors, the closer they will come to finding the college that suits them as individuals.

The purpose of the college guidance program at ESD is to help students understand that college selection is a process, a process which demands careful attention and participation, a process that is highly personal. Students should go through a period of self-reflection, the first step in the planning process. Consider many things: interests, talents, personal goals, strengths, and weaknesses. Be realistic when thinking about yourself. Do not be afraid to reach and dream, but keep one foot on the ground. 

Each year, Episcopal students are encouraged to meet with many of the over one hundred college representatives who visit our campus. In the fall our students participate in the College Previews program, sponsored by St. Mark's, Hockaday, Greenhill, Parish, and ESD, welcoming approximately two hundred college representatives. Additionally, we believe in visiting college campuses in order to get a better idea of what the school is really like. There is no substitute for a college visit as a way of assessing the school for the best “fit.” 

Resources

Episcopal School of Dallas Naviance
Naviance Tips
College Planning for 9th Graders
College Planning for 10th Graders