How has Key prepared you for college?
Key has forced me to approach and analyze my school work through a different lens, and manage my time more effectively. Being a student-athlete all throughout high school, I have had to find time during the school day to consult with teachers and complete assignments, opposed to trying to cram in all my school work at 12am and be unprepared for the following school day. Key has also prepared me to advocate for myself and feel comfortable asking questions, whether that be to my teachers, or with my peers. 

Intended Area(s) of Study
I plan on majoring in either International Relations or Journalism, with a minor in French

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?
Seeing the campus in person and talking to current students helped me the most during my college search. 

Being able to talk to some of my friends at the colleges I was looking at helped me get a true sense of the academics and the social dynamic at the given schools. In addition to these, watching recorded classes helped me get a sense of how the relationship between the teachers and students were, and helped me decide if I could see myself in the classroom with those types of students in that kind of environment. 

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?
I would begin to compile a list of values and what you want to have and need at your college next year. Whether that may be location, specific programs, diversity, size, I think it’s important to figure out your core values and see what colleges and universities align with those values as well. My parents tried to be as involved as possible, which was helpful at times, but it is important to remember that the child is going to be the one spending their next four years on the campus, not the parents. I think it’s important for the child to take control during this time, though it is always nice to have the parents right beside them whenever they need assistance. 

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?
For me, my search started a bit all over the place. Initially, I wanted to play soccer at the collegiate level, so I shifted my focus to schools that showed me interest on the soccer field. After I realized that I no longer wanted to play soccer in college, I began to look for schools along the east coast and I ultimately chose the University of Maryland - College Park. 

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?
The summer workshop that Key hosted was what I found most helpful going into the college process. I would encourage every rising senior to participate in this workshop, as it gives them the opportunity to get a head start on the process, as well as talk to students who have already gone through the process successfully. The couple hours a day during the week gave me a preview of what was in store for the next several months.

What will you miss the most about Key?
I’m going to miss most the tight-knit community that I’ve formed throughout my years at Key, as well as the connections I’ve made with my teachers during my years in the high school. I know at many of the large public schools in the area, the opportunity to form close friendships with teachers is limited, due to the large number of students, although at Key, we have the opportunity and are encouraged to create close relationships with our teachers, which has made me thrive as a student in this community.

How has Key prepared you for college?

Key has given me confidence and precision of expression, allowing me to develop and pursue my interests in collaboration with my peers.

Intended area of study/Academic interests

Atmospheric Science

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?

The key to my college process was weighing my criteria. I reflected on how important each aspect was to me, both personally and logistically.

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?

Don’t let a single criteria bottleneck your search.  If I had not agreed to entertain the possibility of a northern school because of the weather, I would never have found my match now. Leave yourself open to possibilities, especially as you are still growing.

How did you make a decision about what college to attend?  

Being on campus and experiencing the feel of the place ultimately cemented my final choice.  Seeing a school in motion is the best way to experience it and discover its values.  The moment I explored my campus I knew that I had found the right college.

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?

When I started my search, I was most focused on program. Making my final decision, however, came down to the people. I saw myself reflected in the community, with a place to be challenged, collaborate, and grow.

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?

Key is an incredible support network throughout the process.  When exploring my options, I knew which values I was looking for in a school, and Key helped me understand how these might be shown in the real world.  They grounded my search while I honed my ideals.

What will you miss the most about Key?

I will miss Key’s culture of close relationships. I have truly bonded with both peers and faculty over my years, and hope to carry these connections through college.

How has Key prepared you for college?

Key’s civilizations curriculum makes me feel prepared for 4 years of college-level humanities. Since freshman year, I’ve been held to a high standard regarding not only the quality of my essays, but also the nuance with which I examine primary source documents.  

Intended area of study/Academic interests?

I intend to major in Political Science and minor in French and Francophone Studies, with a possible concentration in International Relations.

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?

My biggest requirement throughout my college search was finding a campus within a city. I value the community and safety and “college experience” that comes with a traditional campus, but I’ve always wanted to experience the culture and opportunity that comes with living in a big city. When choosing what school to attend, that requirement remained at the forefront, but affordability was definitely the most important thing. 

Columbia was always my dream school, and choosing to apply early decision was the easiest decision I've ever made. I always loved the campus, the location, the diversity, the academic rigor, the post-grad opportunities, etc. It felt like the only school for me.

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?

My advice to current juniors would be:

1. Continue to improve academically. Junior year (and the beginning of senior year) grades are what colleges will be looking at the most. 

2. Ask yourself what sets you apart. College essays and interviews aren’t about listing your accomplishments. They’re about showing the reader who you are and what makes you unique.

My advice for parents would be:

1. Let your child take control of this process. My parents were always there for support, but this was my journey. Know that this is your child’s future and they need to truly understand what they’re getting themselves into.

How did you make a decision about what college to attend?  

I talked to a lot of my older friends about their college search and asked them what they most enjoy about where they ended up.

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?

I found the college application summer workshop to be the most helpful advising tool throughout my college process. It was not only an opportunity to sit down for a couple hours and crank out the Common App, but also a place to practice my interview skills and dive into the aspects of myself that needed to appear at the center of my application.

What will you miss the most about Key?

What I’ll miss most about Key is the close-knit community. Going from a high school of less than 200 to a college of over 6,000 will be such a leap. Although I’m excited to meet a bunch of new people and take advantage of all of the opportunities that come with larger student bodies, I’ll miss being in a place where we all know each other.

How has Key prepared you for college?

I know most people are going to talk about things like the student-to-teacher relationship, or self advocacy, etc., which are all really important. But I think something Key alums often overlook is just how much Key truly teaches you how to think in a critical way. We are expected to draw connections, themes, and motifs from so many different disciplines and combine them into one cohesive idea. That is a way of thinking that won’t only translate to college, but to life. 

Intended area of study/Academic interests

Major: Mathematics 

Minor: Philosophy and Economics

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?

Starting to get a sense of what you prioritize in terms of your college search. That can be location, prestige, specific programs, social atmosphere, diversity, etc. Once I began vaguely ranking what was most important to me, finding a college became much easier. 

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?

Breathe and trust the process, because it’s a long and arduous one. Also, ask a lot of questions (Laura will tell you how many times I’d ask her questions).

How did you make a decision about what college to attend?  

Saying to myself, "Jaeden, where will your needs be met?" That means your academic needs, your social needs, and your financial needs. Luckily, when I was making my final decision, I was at a position where the difference in what a school offered me academically and financially was virtually negligible. So I had to ask myself what environment did I want to be in? When I chose Stanford, I thought, I’ve never been to west, it’d be a new experience for me, the weather is great, the atmosphere is energetic, the student body is diverse and collaborative, the black alumni network is deep, should I go on?

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?

I’m going to be completely transparent and say that I was definitely looking for prestige at first (a close second was being in a city though). I knew I was a competitive applicant and I wanted my college to reflect that. In the end though, my decision wasn’t really based on prestige as much as it was based on environment and social atmosphere. I had to put my ego to the side and consider where do I truly see myself not only as a student, but as a person!

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?

The constant communication between the advisors and students. The frequent check-ins, milestone reminders and progress reports made it so much easier to navigate the mess that is college application season. 

What will you miss the most about Key?

I’ve tried to be unorthodox in almost all my answers, but for this question I have to be clichè and say the tight-knit community. Whether it be from student-to-student, student-to-teacher, student-to-advisor, etc. Never once at Key did I feel like a number. I constantly felt like my place in the school was reaffirmed by everyone around me, and that is something that I will certainly miss.

How has Key prepared you for college?
Key taught me how to collaborate, not only with my peers, but with teachers as well. In high school, I've always felt that I had an opportunity for open dialogue with my teachers, which encouraged me to think critically. Key’s focus on student-teacher relationships has built my confidence in engaging with professors, which will make my transition into college much smoother.

Intended Area(s) of Study
Global Health and French

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?
Try to narrow your search to schools in which their curriculum and learning philosophy aligns with you as a person. That takes lots of personal thinking, but it was one of the most crucial factors for me. I started my list with about 40 schools, and narrowed it down to one school where I felt that the education that I would receive would not only aid me in my career, but contribute to my personhood. For example, I value academic integrity, so having an honor code was a crucial factor that I knew would motivate me to do my best work. You may think about whether you prefer an open curriculum, distribution requirements, a common core, etc.

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?
In my experience, I think that students should listen to their parents more than they usually would during this process. They can be really helpful with expanding your horizons to look at certain schools. However, in the end, you really need to make the decision based on your personal feelings when you visit the school (I highly recommend in-person visits when school is in session, if possible). After all, you will be the one living there for 4 years, not your parents! 

How did you make a decision about what college to attend?  
After visiting in-person, I had a really good feeling about the school. What sealed the deal was meeting students and alumni, who cemented my conviction that the people at Middlebury ARE my people. 

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?
Because of my positive experiences at Key, I was looking for a small, liberal arts college. That’s about all the information I knew. I was really open to any setting, rural or urban. My second and third choice schools were completely different from my first. I was very unsure in the beginning, but my thoughts were clarified when I visited many of my schools. While it does sound cliché, in the end, after hours of research, I decided on Middlebury because it felt like home.

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?
I really appreciated the emphasis on the “self” that Key promoted in this process. The decision making process is intimate and individualized, and Laura did a great job of making sure that we were choosing our schools to align with our personal values. 

What will you miss the most about Key?
The tight-knit community, my mentors, my wonderful friends.

How has Key prepared you for college?
Key has prepared me for taking charge in the classroom; the leadership skills that Key taught me can be applied to not only my own life, but so many other settings. Because of Key, I'm not afraid of using my voice and expressing myself. 

Intended Area(s) of Study
Psychology

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?
Not being afraid to reach out and learn about other colleges through the experience of others was a really important way for me to find the school that was right for me. Any college is going to promote their school through what's posted on their websites or social media, but hearing from the students and professors firsthand really gave me a new perspective that I was looking for. 

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?
Don't be so hard on yourself. No matter where you end up, just focus on making the best of it. You've worked hard to get to where you are today, so give yourself some credit! Everyone's college search is different, so don't compare yourself to others, and focus on what's right for you. 

How did you make a decision about what college to attend? 
The community and location are what were most important for me. Going to Key has opened my eyes to an appreciation for tight-knit communities where people are encouraged to embrace themselves, and I knew that I needed that aspect when looking for the right college. 

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?
The big social groups honestly, but at the end of the day, it was the communities, location, and academics that stood out most to me for my final decision. 

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?
The summer college "camp" for seniors. Those four days saved me from weeks worth of work. I knew nothing about the college process, and I learned so much in those few short days that really boosted me and my knowledge for the lengthy process. 

What will you miss the most about Key?
The community and endless amount of support from my peers and teachers. Key holds such an important place in my heart as it's allowed me to form such amazing connections with so many awesome people.

How has Key prepared you for college?
Being at Key my entire life, I have been able to learn and grow in a community I know cares about me as an individual. This aspect alone has taught me so many critical skills that I will continue to use in college. For example, self-advocacy and the importance of a strong relationship with your teachers. I have a very shy personality. So for a while, I never really talked to anyone unless I was spoken to. But the close relationship I had with my teachers helped me come out of my shell over the last couple of years of my high school career. Whether it was meeting with my math teacher before a challenging test or having a one-on-one conversation with a Civ teacher, it was the small moments that shaped me to become the (much more) vocal student I am today. So while Syracuse is a lot bigger than Key, I will not hesitate to reach out and create a strong relationship with my professors and teacher's assistants thanks to the many lessons Key has taught me over the years.

Intended Area(s) of Study
My major is architecture but through my studies, I would like to focus on integrating sustainable practices and modern technology into cities to combat climate change while also cultivating a more innovative future. Additionally, I would like to use that focus to create more affordable, good-quality housing for those in need. 

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?
Research everything. It is good to have an idea for one thing you are set on having within your college. For example, a specific program, a specific sports team, or even specific weather. Use that list to generate a list of colleges you are interested in and then research every single detail about them. From personal experience, I generated a list based on the best architecture programs in the country. From there I narrowed down the list based on the facts I learned when I was researching. But even after I thought I had generated my final list, I continued looking into the small details such as campus food, social clubs, etc. and my list continued to change. And as part of that research, watch as many college tours as you can. Especially the unofficial ones from current students. From my experience, you can find them on almost every social media platform or you can visit the college in person if you are able (I highly recommend visiting in person if you are nearby). 

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?
Start working on anything you can during the summer. Don't wait until the summer workshop to start compiling a list of extracurriculars, finalizing your college list, or starting your personal statement! Doing as much as you can before school starts will lighten the load during the fall semester of your senior year. While teachers are lenient, classes will still be progressing at roughly the same pace if not faster depending on what classes you are in. So at least from my personal experience, it is very easy to fall behind or get overwhelmed. 

How did you make a decision about what college to attend?  
My college decision was a whirlwind but not in the usual way. At first, I had my heart set on going to the University of Southern California. But then I went to visit Syracuse University the summer before my senior year. Previously, Syracuse was not high on my list at all. It was just there because it has one of the best architecture programs in the country. But after visiting, it started to compete for first place. I spent the entirety of my fall semester switching back between USC and Syracuse until the week before winter break when I finished my art portfolio. After a couple of days to reflect and a lot of long conversations with my parents, I decided that I would apply to Syracuse Early Decision II. In the end, it boiled down to the fact that the program had everything I wanted (study abroad, great professors, etc.), it's fairly nearby, and if I didn't get accepted or got accepted into my second choice major, I could still fall back on my other college acceptances or my possible acceptance from USC. Lo and behold, I got my admissions letter unexpectedly a few weeks later and I have been committed ever since! 

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?
In the beginning, I focused my college search mainly on the program and location. From the middle of my junior year up until the end of the summer before my senior year, I was set on studying architecture in California. So because of that, most of the schools on my original list were in California and if they weren't, they were low on the list. But as I learned more about college in general, I realized that there's so much more that goes into what makes a college perfect for you personally. So in the end, my final decision stemmed from the fact that I knew I was going to be my best self academically to prepare myself for my future career while also being able to have fun and enjoy my college experience. 

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?
By far the most helpful part of the college advising process was just being able to walk into Laura's office when I needed to talk or when I had a question. Especially as I struggled with the USC and Syracuse decision. I was putting a lot of stress on myself during that time because choosing a college is a huge decision and a major milestone. But being able to just sit down during an afternoon break or office hours and weigh the pros and cons made a big impact on my final decision. 

What will you miss the most about Key?
In complete honesty, I will miss everything about Key. Being at this school since Pre-K 3, I've experienced so many different traditions that are truly unique to Key. For example, Orff performances, the Book Festival, Outdoor Ed trips, and the Halloween Parade just to name a few. To be completely transparent, it hasn't truly hit me until now, as I'm writing this because I have been so focused on my AP exams. But I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to go to this school. Over the years I have made lifelong friends as well as met teachers who have strongly identified with and looked up to whether they know it or not. Due to this, I am confident that Key has shaped me into my best self academically, emotionally, and socially and I will miss every moment of my experience here.

How has Key prepared you for college?

Key has helped prepare me for college both academically and mentally. Key has taught me how to push myself within my academics and how to manage my time successfully. Key’s civilization course had challenged me like no other class before but allowed me to grow the most. From my first day at Key in 7th grade until now, my writing skills have been pushed to the limit and I can now say, I feel confident about the work I put out. The biggest gift you can ever give a young mind is the opportunity to learn and obtain knowledge and Key has done exactly that. I have been able to take classes I genuinely love and learn information that is going to help me in my college life. I am extremely thankful for how much Key has prepared me for college and it could not be possible without Key’s community.

Intended area of study/Academic interests?

My major and intended area of study will be Business Management. Over the past two summers, I have had the opportunity to work for my dad and learn the in and outs of the business world. I have a huge interest in sports analytics and management. During my senior year, I did an independent study on the Business of Sports Marketing and Management. I was able to interview different people that related to my study and learn the importance of business in the sports industry. I am continuing my love of sports into my senior project as I am interviewing sports analysts, NFL coaches, and social media relations assistants.

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?

Looking back over the past year, I learned that touring the campus and doing online research was the most important thing in finding a college. I enjoyed watching YouTube videos and looking through social media platforms for information. It was very important that I found a school where I could see myself, not just purely based on academics.

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?

Make sure to communicate and be open! This can be a stressful time but it is important to express your feelings and have honest conversations about what you are looking for. The college process goes by extremely fast, and the sooner you start it the less stress you will have. I highly recommend taking Laura’s summer workshop and to use your time wisely during that week. You can get a lot completed during that time, and trust me when I say you will feel better knowing that you are already ahead of the game!

How did you make a decision about what college to attend?

I knew the minute I had talked with people about Providence College and toured the campus that it was the school for me. Walking around the campus with my family provided me with a similar sense of community that Key has. I loved that it has a civilization program and strong teacher/student relationships. I love the location of the school and being a big Patriots fan, I knew I was in the right place!

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?

When I first started my college research, I was looking for a school with a strong business program, a tight-knit community, and located on the east coast. I made a spreadsheet with all the colleges I was interested in and compared them to one another. On paper, I loved them all, but it was not until I toured each one I was finally able to see where I should be.

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?

Laura was the biggest help throughout my college application process. She was always there to give me advice and listen when I would rant about what I was looking for in a college. I feel really fortunate to have someone like Laura who has so much knowledge regarding colleges and what colleges are looking for nowadays. Being able to openly communicate my thoughts and feelings toward Laura during a stressful time was able to put me at ease. Laura and all my teachers were able to guide me each step of the way and I knew that I could reach out to any of them throughout my college application process.

What will you miss the most about Key?

I am going to miss the community and outdoor education the most. I love being able to walk around campus, seeing familiar faces, and engaging in conversations along the way. Key is built on a strong sense of community and it allows me to feel at home. I am going to miss all the amazing relationships I have formed with my teachers and the grades below me. Most of all, I'm going to miss the outdoor education trips that created some of my favorite memories and highlights in life. I never thought I would be one to say I love camping, but when it is spent with people you love it truly makes the difference. The outdoor ed trips taught me life skills that will help me in the future and I hope in years after we all graduate my grade can reunite to do one last camping trip!

How has Key prepared you for college?
Key has prepared me to be an independent student and thinker, as well as thinking critically to participate in small class discussions. 

Intended Area(s) of Study
Journalism and Marketing

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?
Keeping an open mind regarding what kind of school I wanted. I prioritized certain things such as internship opportunities, what areas of study most excited me, etc.

What advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?
My advice is to look at colleges that excite you. Also look for colleges that offer as many opportunities and options as you can, since your opinions will change over time. 

How did you make a decision about what college to attend?  
GW provided me with the most opportunities professionally. I’ve always loved a city setting and being in a city will provide me with internship opportunities that wouldn’t be available elsewhere. They also offer areas of study that I am currently interested in, as well as topics I could see myself studying in the future. 

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?
At first I primarily focused on location. This became the most important at the end of my decision because I realized being in D.C. would give me more opportunities than any other place. 

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?
I found that being able to talk through problems with my college advisor and having someone to guide me through the process was the most helpful.

What will you miss the most about Key?
I will miss the small class discussions, and the bond students have with each other and teachers/administrators.

How has Key prepared you for college?

Key really taught me how to self advocate. I think that having the ability to speak up for myself and ask for clarification when needed helped me in the college application process and will continue to help me as I navigate the very new and unfamiliar setting that is college. I also think that it has helped me build relationships with teachers and various other people, which is an important skill that I will take with me to college and beyond. 

Intended area of study/Academic interests

I’m planning to study business (maybe entrepreneurship) and psychology.

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?

1. I found that visiting schools in person was really helpful. You’d be really surprised how much location, weather, campus feel, etc., can affect how much you like a place. Use your fall senior visit days to your advantage! If you visit while school is in session, you can observe what daily student life is like and get a sense of whether or not the community is a good fit for you. 

2. Really take a lot of time to reflect on yourself as a person and a student. Ask yourself: what kind of environment do you thrive in, academically and personally? 

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?

Parents: Remember that this is not about you. Your job is to be a support for your child, whether that be emotional, moral, research or something else, not to figure anything out for them. 

Students:

1. You’re going to make mistakes along the way. Don’t panic. Almost everything is fixable; you just have to advocate for yourself. 

2. Apply to places you genuinely see yourself happy at, not just what names sound the coolest or where your parents really want you to go. It’s not worth wasting time, money, and energy on an application to a school you don’t really care about going to when all of that could be spent on schools you really do want to go to (it sounds like obvious advice, but a surprising amount of people go overboard in this stage of the college process).

How did you make a decision about what college to attend?  

Since all of the schools I applied to were ones I could see myself at, I really just thought about where I could get the most diverse experiences for the best monetary deal (the most bang for your buck, if you will). 

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?

Because my intended major is so common, I didn’t have to worry too much about what schools offered my major. For me, looking for a college was not only about looking for a school that I was going to spend the next four years of my life in, but also a home. I needed to be in an environment that I would thrive in both inside and outside of the classroom. For me, that was a large school with an urban campus setting–somewhere I would get to have a variety of experiences and meet lots of diverse people. In the end, when it came to decision time, I looked at what school would give me the most diverse and unique experiences.

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?

I found Laura’s support, both emotional and writing, to be super helpful. She made the process a lot less overwhelming by giving me honest advice on my essays and by keeping me level headed when things got complicated. 

What will you miss the most about Key?

The teachers I was able to build relationships with over the past several years.

How has Key prepared you for college?

Key has prepared me for college by not teaching me what to think, but teaching me how to think. I feel prepared to take on the rigorous levels of critical thinking college requires. 

Intended area of study/Academic interests

Philosophy, History, Urban Planning, International Relations. 

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?

It may not be the easiest for everyone, but traveling to the schools you are interested in and discovering the school's vibe is extremely important. Also, having fun with the process completely opens up your mind and options. 

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?

Since this process is so time-intensive, give it as much time and thought as possible. 

How did you make a decision about what college to attend?  

I revisited the two schools I was primarily interested in, and after my revisits, I sat with my thoughts and let the recency bias wear off. I think for some people it comes immediately, but for others (including me) it takes serious concentration and thought which necessitates time. 

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?

The primary aspect I looked for in a college was a culture of intellectual curiosity as opposed to a heavily pre-professional school. In the end, I prioritized what kind of freedoms I wanted in both the curriculum and location. 

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?

Laura's availability! I will never forget in junior year when she would text our GroupMe and say she was answering questions outside. I found those sessions so helpful and informative. It also helped me build my relationship with Laura. 

What will you miss the most about Key?

The incredibly close-knit community and the consistently small seminar-style classes.

How has Key prepared you for college?

Key has prepared me for college by fostering independence, communication skills, and self-advocacy. The discussion-based classes, open-ended assignments, and opportunities (such as independent studies, senior projects, etc.) taught me how to think creatively and persuasively convey my opinions and arguments. Key's biggest strength is the student-teacher relationships. Talking with adults and communicating effectively is one of the most important life skills and is crucial to the college process and beyond. Overall, for me, Key has acted as a "mini-college" experience, and I feel incredibly well prepared for college. My biggest advice is to utilize all the opportunities and relationships Key can offer.

Intended area of study/Academic interests?

I'm planning on studying media management with a minor in screenwriting and psychology at the University of Miami. I am interested in the creation of characters within television, specifically behavioral motivations, patterns in television, and what makes characters within media successful.

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?

The most important thing I did to find a college was my meeting with Laura and the University of Miami advisor. I almost didn't go (it was on Halloween), but I believe that meeting was not only a huge deciding factor for me, but the college as well. The class had a weird year with limited opportunities to visit schools because of the pandemic. Therefore, we did a lot of visits centered around wherever we happened to be. Even if it's not a college that you are particularly interested in, visiting schools can help you find what you want and don't want in your college experience. My biggest regret while making my decision was not visiting as many schools as possible.

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?

My biggest advice is to utilize all opportunities that Key offers. Go to the meetings with college counselors when they visit Key in the fall of senior year and make relationships with your teachers! You will find a college that works for you, and it's okay to skip the tour because you know it's not the place for you. Don't limit yourself to one specific type of school or size, and look at as many as possible to find what you like. Finally, take a deep breath. People say this all the time, and it annoyed me, but you will get in somewhere, and any opportunity is what you make of it.

How did you make a decision about what college to attend?  

Honestly, I had no idea where I wanted to go. I applied to vastly different schools and was vaguely indifferent. I didn't know what I wanted. After receiving most of my decisions, I called my best friend in Connecticut and told her my options. She let me drone on about all of my schools and afterward looked at me and said, "It's Miami." I loved the program, the academic style, the city, and the social element; it was the only one that I couldn't stop smiling throughout. One of the best ways to decide is to just talk about it (everything from location, size, classes, social elements, etc.) and have someone who has no dog in the hunt (aka probably not your parents or someone who went to one of the schools) tell you which one you seemed most excited about. If you are disappointed in their choice, you know your answer about the school and vice versa. It sounds moderately unconventional, but sometimes you need other people to bring out your true opinions beyond school names or reputations.

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?

I was mostly looking for a different social experience from Key. I love Key, and I love my friends, but I knew I wanted something different for my time at college. Originally, I was afraid of looking at larger schools and thought I wanted something academically similar, but as my search progressed, I realized what I really wanted was a larger pool of people and opportunities. I know we are supposed to say academics, but I think you can get a great education in most places. What is most valuable, at least to me, is building connections. 

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?

The most valuable part of the college advising process at Key is the access to college admission counselors from schools across the country. Being a small school, we have the opportunity to gain personal relationships with the admission counselors, which can be crucial to your decision on both ends.  

What will you miss the most about Key?

I will most miss my class and teachers. We are very close and bonded in a way that I haven't seen in any other school. My critical school experience was incredibly unique and exciting, and I'm delighted that this is where I was able to spend my last fifteen years.

How has Key prepared you for college?

Key has prepared me for college by strengthening my work ethic, time management, and independence as a student. Key has also taught me to work with others effectively. One word that was ubiquitous on college applications was collaboration. Schools want to know that a student can work with others in class, not just excel on their own. Key incorporates collaboration into the curriculum, from hands-on labs in groups of two or three to editing each other’s essays and giving feedback. Furthermore, Key’s small class sizes have allowed me to develop strong relationships with my teachers. This practice from early on will make my transition to college easier.

Intended area of study/Academic interests

I plan to major in Chemical Engineering and minor in Music Theory.

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?

Some of the most important things I did to find a college was to take campus tours virtually and in-person. Additionally, I attended summer programs for pre-college students at Georgia Tech and Cornell. Staying on campus at Georgia Tech allowed me to experience whether I would like to stay close to home or far away for college. Taking a writing course at Cornell helped me to test my ability to perform at the college level. I really enjoyed those experiences and strongly recommend them to students looking to find a college that is right for them.

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?

My advice for juniors and their parents is to really invest your time into the exercises and activities Laura asks you to do. Not only are they essential to having a smooth college process, but you learn more about yourself and your junior throughout. These exercises help bring out who you are as a person in a concise way and formulate your application. In addition, my mom attended the college meetings and learned a lot from the recommended authors that Laura shared with the parents. Those resources helped her guide me through my senior year.

How did you make a decision about what college to attend?  

For me, I fell in love with the Cornell campus on my first visit. I applied early decision and put my all into the application. I was very fortunate that it worked out.

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?

I was most looking for a college that had a strong engineering program and allowed students the flexibility to explore other programs and concentrations. Research with faculty was also top on my list.

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?

I loved that Laura gives students a personalized guide to getting through the college process smoothly. Laura sat down with my parents and I and helped me outline the work I had done throughout high school. We developed a strategy to highlight my strengths. I also really liked that Laura had a summer workshop prior to senior year where I was able to get a head start on my common app essay and application. She gives us tools, one on one feedback, and brings in alumni to help guide us through the process. She also set up individual mock interviews with current college counselors, so we were prepared for interviews in the fall.

What will you miss the most about Key?

I will miss the community the most. I am so grateful for all the relationships I formed and am so thankful to have so many mentors to look up to.

How has Key prepared you for college?
One thing I can definitely say that Key has done without question is preparing me academically for college. The courses are hard and the teachers expect a lot from their students, but because I was pushed and held to high expectations I have held myself to a high standard. I am a STEM person through and through but because of the Civ program I became an incredibly strong writer. The school has taught me to expect the most from myself, be organized, and encourage me to advocate for myself.

Intended Area(s) of Study
I am going into Biomedical Engineering and I plan to get a masters in Biomechanics to hopefully go into the line of making prosthetics and medical devices. 

Looking back over the past year or so, what stands out as the most important thing/s you did to find a college?
I had a huge list and to whittle it down I spent a lot of time researching schools and programs, then took a few road trips to look at various schools. I know what I need academically for my learning profile so being able to search for and find those academic supports at different schools was also a key factor in finding the right schools to look at.

Now that you are done, what advice do you have for juniors and their parents as they embark on their college search?
Students

• Take advantage of the workshop. I walked out of the workshop with my personal essay, resume, and my common app info all complete. It is 100% doable, but you need to use your time wisely because once school starts it's full steam ahead and time is precious. 
• I definitely recommend applying to at least 1 rolling admissions school by the end of August (even if it's not a school you love). I applied to 2 rolling admissions. My top choice, the University of Kentucky, happened to be one of them and I got my acceptance letter the second week of September. Having one acceptance takes the stress off me as a student. I heard back from Penn State, my second rolling school, in mid-October. Having 2 acceptances that early in the year makes a WORLD of a difference.

Parents

• I am incredibly close with both my parents and they were very supportive through the process and understood that it was MY process to go through and let me take the lead as they watched and stood behind me to support me. 
• Be supportive, be someone your child can bounce ideas off but don't be overbearing because everyone involved is stressed enough.
• Some classmates had very different experiences than I did with parent involvement through the college process but it's your child's job to get their applications in not yours, so use this as an opportunity to hold them accountable and learn. 
• Be the rock and the calm your child can look for when needed and have your stress moments somewhere else. 

How did you make a decision about what college to attend?  
From the second I stepped on Kentucky’s campus I loved it. The environment, the people, the school pride, and the sense of community were really strong there. Choosing a school my priority was on the program. Though Kentucky isn't known as an “Engineering school” the engineering program is really strong and though it's smaller it gets a lot more personalized attention and is growing fast. There is no wrong choice when choosing a school, but the school I chose is the one that when I talked about it, my face lit up, the one that felt like home, and being 100 percent certain I could be happy and myself while I continue growing as a strong and driven person.

What were you most looking for in a college when you started your search? What ended up being most important as you made your final decision?
When I started I knew I wanted a bigger school (I ultimately chose the smallest one I looked at), with an accomplished engineering program that had lots of internship and COop opportunities, and somewhere with massive school spirit and sports. I loved the opportunities Kentucky offered and I sat in multiple webinars about the engineering program and it got me really excited about the school. Kentucky was the one school that after I got in the car with my dad after my campus tour I said “This is it, it just feels right.”

What did you find most helpful about the college advising process at Key?
The college workshop was the most helpful thing ever. I left with a completed essay, resume, and all the personal and some college-specific info on the common app.

What will you miss the most about Key?
I will miss the teachers the most, from those who watched me on the playground and taught me to paint hand butterflies 14 years ago, to those who helped me get through high school all the way to my last day of senior year. There are quite a few teachers on campus who have made an incredible impact on me and I will miss seeing them around.