The Episcopal College Counseling team hosted a series of second semester events for Upper School students and parents, tailored to each grade level. From parent meetings to panel presentations, Episcopal families from eighth grade through 12th grade were invited to hear about making the most of Upper School and preparing for college in a grade-appropriate setting.

In early January, the Class of 2026 heard from Episcopal young alumni, graduates from 2021 through 2025, about what to expect and how to prepare for the transition to college next year. Topics included dorm room essentials, what they would have done differently, and the ways Episcopal most prepared them for college academics and beyond. 

College Counselors met with parents and guardians of 8th-10th grade students to share details of how college counseling is incorporated into the overall Episcopal experience. Families learned of the advisory-partnership program, which pairs each student with a dedicated college counselor beginning in ninth grade. They also discussed the individualized approach and focus on “fit” as students navigate Upper School academics and extracurricular activities, so that they may eventually in find good college matches that align with their values and priorities. By engaging in conscious decision-making regarding their “fit” across the Four Pillars at Episcopal, students equip themselves with the tools to approach the college process with confidence about who they are and what they value.

To cap off a wonderful month of programming, the Episcopal College Counseling team hosted a panel discussion with four admissions representatives from the University of Florida, Centre College, Skidmore College, and the University of Central Florida. Between the four representatives, there was a collective eighty years of college admissions experience! The panel was open to 10th-11th grade families and covered a variety of topics, including admissions trends, standardized testing, personal essays, recommendation letters, and how to find joy in the college admissions process.