College Counseling

Beginning freshman year, college counselors will help students understand transcripts, course registration. and their grade point average. The focus during this year is the academic side of college preparation.

The focus during the sophomore year expands to the holistic factors including letters of recommendation and involvement in activities based on their areas of interest.

Programming for students and parents begins in Junior year with College Financial Aid Night, Junior College Night, and Case Study Night held across late Fall and Winter. Students meet one-on-one with their college counselor throughout the Spring semester: first to get to know each other, select appropriate courses for senior year, and discuss prospective teachers to ask for a letter of recommendation.  Follow-up meetings focus on refining the student’s college search and how to determine “good fit” institutions. College counselors will assist students in identifying their academic, social, and financial interests, priorities, and fit to conduct a thorough college search.

At the start of senior year, college counselors host Senior Kick Off before the first day of school to prepare students to complete their applications and request documents. College counselors update students and parents on the details and expectations of the fall application season at Senior College Night in early September.  Throughout the fall students will meet with their college counselors as they navigate college and scholarship applications. College counselors continue to support students and assist with questions about financial aid and how to make the best decision once acceptances are received.

AMERICAN LEGION SCHOLARSHIPS THRU ORATORICAL CONTEST 2025 - Young orators earn some of the most generous college scholarships available to high school students.  Over $203,500 in scholarships can be awarded each year.  The overall national contest winner gets a $25,000 scholarship.  Second place takes home $22,500 and third gets $20,000.    High school students under age 20 are eligible.  Competition begins at the post level and advances to a state competition.  Speaking subject must be on some aspect of the U.S. Constitution, with some emphasis on the duties and obligations of citizens to our government.  Speeches are 8 to10 minutes long: 3 to 5 minute speeches on an assigned topic also are part of the contest.  Questions: [email protected].

FUTURE INNOVATORS SCHOLARSHIP - This is a unique chance for students to develop and pitch their innovative ideas while competing for scholarships of up to 100% for a prestigious summer programme. There are five categories  for competing: Leadership; STEM; Medicine; Social Sciences and Business. Students can participate individually or in teams. Submission deadline: May 4, 2025.  Winners announced: May 12, 2025.  Scholarship Enrollment deadline: May 26, 2025. Details here.

SigEP - SigEp knows that the transition for graduating high school seniors to college can be tough, and the cost of college can create even more stress.  We want to do our part to help. We have over $300,000 in scholarship opportunities at over 100 campuses nationwide.  To qualify for the  Balanced Man Scholarship, incoming students should submit an online application and enroll full-time at any of these institutions for the fall 2025 term (no essay required). Final deadlines vary by school, but the early application deadline for most scholarships is June 2, 2025. Visit the scholarship link.  Application deadline: June 1, 2025.

NATIONAL COLLEGE FAIRS -  The NACAC (National Association for College Admission Counseling) is holding a College Fair in Prince George's County, MD, on Friday, April 11, 2025 from 9:30am - 12;30pm at the Prince George's County Sports and Learning Complex in Landover, Maryland.  View the list of exhibiting colleges and universities. Register here.

The Federal City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. presents the College Fair with the theme "Standing on Business". The College Fair will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Dunbar High School located at 101 N St NW Washington, DC 20001. There will be representatives from Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominately White Institutions (PWIs) both public and private, Panel discussions, Light refreshments, Door prizes, Entertainment, Potential On-site Admissions and Scholarships, and so much more! Please register using the QR code on the flyer or at https://TheFCACCollegeFair25.eventbrite.com. Please direct all questions to the Scholarship Committee at [email protected].

GUIDE TO GAP YEAR PROGRAMS 2025 - .TeenLife's Guide to Gap Year Programs 2025 includes a range of programs offering adventure, cultural immersion, and person growth.  From global volunteering to skill-building initiative, find opportunities aligned with your passions and aspirations.  Your year of exploration starts here - embrace the potential to redefine your path, expand your horizons, and reshape your worldview. Want to learn more about the gap programs in our Gap Guide?  CLICK HERE to fill out a form, select the programs you want to hear from, and submit! To learn more about the programs in the guide, use our SEARCH FILTER to find what's right for you.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT GAP YEAR PROGRAM - Here are resources for students at Where There Be Dragons. There are a lot of great programs to pick from and it might be challenging for students to narrow down their options.  Here are some tips to help them find their perfect program.  Explore Programs.  Schedule a Call and Use Guides.

INDUSTRY APPRENTICESHIP DAY -  The Industry National Apprenticeship Day will be held Wednesday, April 30th, 2025 at the Plumbers & Gasfitters Training Facility at 5000 Forbes Blvd.  in Lanham, MD 20706 from 10:30am -3:00pm for the Trade Show & Facility Tours. From 11:00am - 2:00pm there will be Food Trucks available. The Washington, D.C. Joint Plumbing Apprentice Committee is now accepting applications the 2025/2026 Apprenticeship Training Program school year. Applicants must apply online here.  Our application process is open year-round, however, the school calendar year is September through July. Final entrance exam procedures for the upcoming school year will take place in June 2025. The application and document deadline to participate in the final testing is Friday, May 23, 2025. Any applications received after May 23, 2025 will be considered for the 2026-2017 school year.

CIVIC INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS:   TurnUp is a non-partisan non-profit organization dedicated to increasing youth civic education, empowerment, and engagement. The program's format is tailored to accommodate the ever fluctuating commitments and responsibilities of student's lifestyle.  The program is fully remote, has start dates each month and has flexible time frame and schedule.  All students have access to grow into more capable and responsible citizens and to develop their professional skills for a successful future. Check their website, flyer. and program description.  Information session with Director available by appointment.

WHAT DO GAP YEARS, INTERNSHIPS, LIFE SKILLS, MENTORS & INDEPENDENT LIVING HAVE IN COMMON. Discover here. We are currently accepting application for: Spring 2025, Fall 2025 Semester and Full Internship Year 2025-2026.

TurnUp, as featured in Forbes, is a standout non-profit organization dedicated to increasing youth civic education, empowerment, and engagement.  Click on TurnUp above for program description and application process.  Their program, Civic and Activism Remote Internship is free and has no costs. The program format is tailored to accommodate the ever fluctuating commitments and responsibilities  of a student's lifestyle.  It is fully remote, has start dates each month and has a flexible time frame and schedule. Questions may be sent to [email protected].

PEDALHEADS BIKE, SWIM & TRAIL PROGRAMS FOR KIDS-  Pedalheads is Hiring! Roles available: Bike Camp Instructors, Supervisors & Camp Managers. Looking for an active, fun, and rewarding job?  Join Pedalheads, where we help kids build confidence on two wheels in an exciting group setting! Why you will love this job:  get paid to be outdoors, inspire young riders, gain leadership skills and no weekends plus paid training. Locations: Alexandria, Arlington, Rockville, Bethesda, Capitol Hill, Chevy Chase, Van Ness,  Rock Creek, Georgetown, Brookland and Petworth.  Who can apply? Anyone who loves working with kids and can ride a bike.  CHECK IT OUT.

EXPERIENCE YOUR FUTURE WITH VETERINARY ACADEMY Sloths, elephants, and horses, oh my!  See the world as you learn from leading conservationists and teaching verterinarians, and get a firsthand look at a life and career dedicated to caring for animals.  Forget boring summer camps!  Veterinary Academy programs offer endless possibilities to explore. You can care for stray dogs and contribute to wildlife conservation efforts in Costa Rica, connect with the public about the importance of habitat preservation at the Texas Zoo, or live amongst the elephants in Thailand.  Where in the world will your passion for animals take you?

SUMMER DISCOVERY & SUMMER DISCOVERY INSTITUTE FOR THE GIFTED:     As the industry leader, Summer Discovery has been inspiring young minds for 58 years, partnering with the world's most prestigous universities to deliver exceptional pre-college academic summer experiences that change students' lives.  Programs perfectly balance academic rigor and personal growth, with on-and-off campus exploration. Check it out here.

FOCUS COLLEGIATE SUMMER 2025 COHORT  Join us for three weeks of fun and learning in one of the country’s most academically prominent cities! From July 13 - August 2, 2025 at Simmons University in Boston, MA. Students entering college are headed to a new world of opportunities. Our summer experience prepares them for that adventure. While building academic independence, collegiate residential skills, and invaluable life experience, the Summer Cohort provides a comprehensive gateway to college life, regardless of which school our students are attending in the fall. The Focus Collegiate Summer Cohort supports inbound and returning college students in a smoother transition to college.

SUMMER DISCOVERY   At Summer Discovery, students are summer fanatics, travel enthusiasts,  and lovers of learning. For nearly six decades, Summer Discovery has offered the most immersive, inspired, and unforgettable summer experiences at the most prestigious university campuses across the country. Located in world-famous locations that are perfect for travel and adventure.  Three distinct academic enrichment programs: High School: Grades 9-12; Middle School: Grades 6-8 and Institute for the Gifted (DIG): Grades 1-12.  Discover Summer Discovery!

SUMMER PROGRAMS WITH COLUMBIA BUSINESS SCHOOL  Columbia Business School's enrichment program is the perfect way for students to explore their interests while still in high school.  Get an inside look at one of the nation's top business schools. Study at the very center of business where the format is highly flexible, so fitting an online program that will fit  into their schedule.  Programs feature dynamic video lessons that allow students to tune in anytime that works for them. Explore the summer programs offered. Find your interests!

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER ONLINE SUMMER PROGRAMS.   If you have a passion for certain subjects and would like to explore them before college, here is your chance to do so—with one of the world's leading research universities. The Rochester Pre-College Online Program offers courses designed for high school students ages 13 and up. Each course features engaging video by Rochester faculty and access to mentors. The program is available year-round, and the online format lets you study anywhere, anytime, at your own pace. This flexibility allows students to take multiple courses and discover a variety of academic areas of interest.

WILLIAM & MARY PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAM. Summer is a perfect time for motivated high school students to learn from William & Mary's world-renowned professors and experts in today's most sought after industries.  The pre-college online courses help students ages 13 and older explore their interests and discover if an interest could lead to a college major or even a future career. Apply now. 

CASE WESTERN RESERVE PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAM  Summer is a perfect time for motivated high school students to start thinking about college. Case Western Reserve University offers an online pre-college program to help students ages 13 and older explore their interest.  The summer application period is now open. For nearly 20 years, Case Western Reserve has prepared ambitious students for futures in the arts, business, engineering, humanities, natural sciences, nursing and social sciences. Explore their summer courses!.

SMITH COLLEGE PRECOLLEGE PROGRAMS. Immerse your self in subjects you love for two weeks this Summer at Smith.  Applications are open. Programs open to students in rising 9-12 grades.  Priority application deadline is Feb 1. Financial Aid deadline is March 1.  Application closed on May 10, 2025.

STEM RESEARCH PROGRAM - Applications for the new Cohort of the STEM Research Program are now open. Led by researchers at MIT, Caltech and Stanford the STEM Research Program introduces ambitious students to cutting edge scientific fields  Each  student will work 1  0n 1 with a PHD mentor and create an independent research project. Explore cool topics like astrophysics quantum mechanics, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, robotic control, game theory, genetic  engineering an many more. Complete  the application to be considered for participation and receive more information.

WILLIAM & MARY PRE-COLLEGE ONLINE PROGRAM - Summer is a great time for your students to experience an online pre-college course. A perfect time for motivated 13 and older high school students to learn from M&W's world-renowned professors and experts in today's most sought-after industries.  The application period for these programs is open now. See the FLYER. Read the current courses being offered and begin the application process here.

WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE SUMMER 2025 - WPI offers a wide array of classes and opportunities ranging from day and residential programs to virtual college credit experiences.  No mater what option you choose, you'll be sure to get a taste of college life.  Check out the LAUNCH PROGRAM for 9 - 11th graders; FRONTIERS PROGRAM - for rising 10-12 graders; and COLLEGE CREDIT JUMPSTART PROGRAM for rising 11th and 12th graders. Apply> Registration from January though April 30, 2025.

BEACON COLLEGE - Immerse yourself in College-Level Learning.  Students who learn differently must often navigate college alone - with no map to follow.  Without the right preparation and support, it's easy to become overwhelmed and disconnected.  Beacon College is an on-campus summer experience for new and continuing college students who learn differently. Students must have a diagnosed learning disability and demonstrate emotional self-control. See for yourself what Beacon has to offer.

IMMERSE EDUCATION SUMMER PROGRAMS Immerse Education is offering complimentary workshops and information sessions for their summer programs. 1. Interactive Information Sessions.  These 45-minute sessions introduce Immerse Education’s summer programs at world-leading universities. They’re ideal for students and parents. Their two-week academic courses  are:  Industry-focused along and offer interdisciplinary options plus how they help students build confidence and explore their futures. 2. Thematic Workshops Once an interest is piqued at SJC, in viewing the information sessions, Immerse Education will be delighted to offer a complimentary online workshop tailored to students’ interests. The sessions: Future-ready Insights: Preparing for Careers That Don’t Exist Yet and 'Winning Writing', are designed to help students master essay writing. Both sessions are hosted on our Succeed platform, allowing: Easy student registration; Tracking of attendees and Access to slides for students and parents.

BANSON NYC FASHION PROGRAMS - Banson NYC if offering three exciting programs this summer 2025.  Check it out.  Banson Fashion Summer Camp. Fashion summer camps information flyer. Fashion Week Adventure Highlights. Lastly, Banson NYC Fashion Week Adventure for High School and College Students.

UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE - Enjoy your summer on the beautiful campus with Edge, a program for high school students who will be juniors and seniors next fall. Experience college life and take engaging courses taught by the UC faculty. When: July 20-August 9, 2025. Deadline May 25, 2025.

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO - Summer at University of Chicago - Join engaged, idea-driven students from around the globe as you dig in - sometime literally - to a Summer Session program at one of the world's great intellectual destinations. Check link for program deadlines.

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND TERP YOUNG SCHOLARS - College bound students are invited to apply to Terp Young Scholars at the University of Maryland (UMD).  In this pre-college program, rising sophomores, juniors, seniors, and graduating seniors enroll in an engaging college course, earn three college credits, explore an exciting new field, and take advantage of the many educational and campus resources at the state's flagship institution. Application deadline:  June 1

FREE SUMMER VIRTUAL EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITY FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS - These are The Experiment Digital Programs. Admissions final deadline is May 12, 2025.  Programs run from June 23 to August 17, 2025.  One program focuses on Climate Change and the Environment and the other focuses on Leadership in STEM. Click here for an overview of programs.

ONLINE INTRO TO CODING SUMMER COURSE - These days, almost all STEM fields use coding as a means to instruct the computer to "do more" cool stuff e.g., designing vaccines, programming robots and driverless cars, inventing apps to detect and diagnose diseases in humans, animals and plants, etc. This program is looking for math and science loving students who perhaps don't realize that coding is for everyone and not just for Computer Scientists.

The Joy of Coding online course has been specially created by the University of Michigan Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering for anyone who wants to experience first-hand the power and thrill of coding computers to do amazing things.
Course Dates: June 18 - July 30, 2025; Course Format: completely online, no scheduled lectures;
Course Cost: $149 + tax, need-based financial aid available. Prerequisites: + students must be 13 years or older;
+ No prior coding experience is required!; + Have taken high school algebra; + Have a desire to learn and + Are able to commit 4 - 6 hours a week and chip away at the material daily.  
Students will:
+ Have weekly asynchronous coding lectures/assignments using an interactive textbook + Learn to code at their own pace with support from Michigan ECE faculty and students
+ Have our commitment to help you get unstuck when learning to code  - everyone gets stuck somewhere, at some point!
+ Receive a certificate of accomplishment to bolster their college applications.  
For priority consideration, please submit an application by May 31 on our "Joy of Coding" link above.

The Harvard College Union Society Young Global Leaders Program Summer Camp at Harvard University.
This immersive summer camp, guided by mentors from the Harvard College Union Society, is meticulously designed to empower young minds, enhance decision-making and communication abilities, and prepare participants to address pressing global challenges.  Participants will have the privilege of immersing themselves in the unparalleled academic environment of Harvard University while witnessing the living legacy that has shaped countless leaders throughout history. Students will develop practical skills in decision-making, problem-solving, and communication, equipping them to become exceptional leaders in their future endeavors. What will participants gain? Program Details: 
Cohort Dates:  Cohort 1: 29th June–6th July 2025 Cohort 2: 13th July–20th July 2025. 
Duration: 8 days and 7 nights,  Venue: Harvard University, Eligibility: Grades 8–12 (School Years 9–13). 
Program Fee: Early Application Fee: USD 4250 (Deadline: 15th April 2025), Regular Application Fee: USD 4650, (Deadline: 15th May 2025).Fee covers academic sessions, accommodation, meals and airport transfers.  
Apply now: Student Registration Link.  View the program brochure here.

CASE WESTERN RESERVE PRE-COLLEGE  PROGRAM - If you have a passion for certain subjects and would like to explore them in-depth before college, here is your chance to do so with one of the nation's premier research institutions. For nearly 200 years, Case Western Reserve University has prepared ambitious students for their futures—in that spirit, we offer our pre-college online courses, designed for high school students ages 13 and up. Each course features video lessons by Case Western Reserve instructors and access to mentors. The program is available year-round, and the online format lets you study anywhere, anytime, at your own pace. This flexibility allows you to take multiple courses and explore a variety of subjects. APPLY HERE.

THE NEW SCHOOL, PARSONS PARIS - Explore the world of fashion before College.  Parsons Paris Online Courses are designed to give students the opportunity to study at one of the nation's premier institutions while they're still in high school.  The flexible format allows your students to study anywhere, anytime, at their own pace; they will even earn a certificate of Completion that they can add to college applications.  Check it out here.

YOUNG FOUNDERS LAB - A STARTUP BOOT CAMP FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS inspired by incubators like the Y-Combinator. Founded by Harvard entrepreneurs, Young Founders Lab is a selective start-up boot camp for ambitious high school students. In the program, you work under the guidance of mentors from places like Google, Microsoft, and Meta to build your own revenue generating start-ups. Check out our brochure for more details. We’re also hosting a live webinar to share more details and answer any questions. Regular deadlines: Summer Regular Admission 1: April 13, 2025.  Summer Regular Admission 2: May 11, 2025.

GREAT BOOKS: DISCOVER EDINBURGH! A LITERARY ADVENTURE AWAITS July 13-19 for rising grades 9-12.  Join us for an invigorating mix of literary and cultural exploration in the ancient and magical land of Mary Queen of Scots, Braveheart, and Robert the Bruce.  From a home-base in the dorms of the historic University of Edinburgh, at the foot of the famed Arthur's Seat, experience an immersive, pre-college travel adventure of a lifetime in Edinburgh! Together we will soak in the landscapes that inspired Scotland's literary legends.  Walk the haunting alleys where Robert Louis Stevenson conceived Jekyll and Hyde.  Wander the paths of Greyfriar Kirkyard, the ancient graveyard that inspired J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter characters.  Feel the thunderous boom of the 1 o'clock cannon firing at Edinburgh Castle. a tradition since 1861.  Stroll the cobble streets where Sir Arthur Conan Doyle imagined the genius of Sherlock Holmes. And much more.  Space is limited.  Register Soon!   Direct questions to either call 203-612-9470 or email: [email protected]

TEEN LIFE NEWS - Visit the following:  How Teens Can Boost Their Confidence This Summer; Out Now! TeenLife's Guide to College Admissions; Updated: TeenLife's Guide to Performing & Visual Arts;  Summer Opportunities Virtual Fairs & Recordings: and Video Resources for Using TeenLife

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER - This summer students can discover if a subject they're passionate about could lead to a college major or a future. Career.  The University of Rochester invites motivated students to choose a course and apply today.  Explore the courses being offered. Check out the accompanying flyer. 

SUMMER CAMP OPPORTUNITIES AT UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON - The U of Dayton is offering summer camp programs for rising high school juniors and seniors (classes of 2026 and 2027). Females Aspiring Business Scholars (FABS) is a four day, overnight camp offered by UD/s School of Business . Registration deadline: May 16.  See full details. Summer Engineering Experiences at UD.  SEE-UD camps will be offered by the School of Engineering which will provide students with an opportunity to explore the diverse fields of engineering. 

GREAT BOOKS SUMMER PROGRAM - FLYER.  Great Books is an extraordinary intellectual adventure.  Students from around the world who share a passion for reading, writing, and learning, gather with Great Books on campuses in the U.S. and abroad to read great literature, discuss big ideas, and have fun. This is for rising grades 6-8, 9-12 and gap year students.  There is also a new day program for rising grades 4-5 on the campus of Stanford.  Learn more. Have questions, we would love to answer them.  

UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON BADGER PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAMS:  
Badger Precollege offers high school students finishing grades 9–12 the opportunity to learn more about college life and academics, gain valuable experience in independence, and pursue new and growing passions. It is an opportunity to invest in your students' future, both inside and outside the classroom. EXPLORE THEIR PROGRAMS:  Badger Summer Scholars. Accelerated Learning Program (ALP). Summer Arts Clinic.

MIAMI UNIVERSITY OF OHIO SUMMER SCHOLARS PROGRAM - Spend a week this summer with one of the nation's top Universities.  Open to high school juniors and seniors. Apply by May 1.

SQUADS ABROAD is an international non-profit that provides essential health and education services to under resourced communities around the world. It is offering an 8-day Global Impact Academy service and cultural immersion program to Guatemala this summer. This program, led by renowned Chicago Educator and Veteran Squads Leader Christina Kuszewski is open for individual students to join and any faculty can travel for free with 3 or more students. View program handout.

SMITH PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAMS - Any high school student ready to explore college life and dive into topics they love; encourage them to apply now to our two-week residential programs.  These programs are designed for high school students entering grades 9-12. Discover for yourself what they have to offer. Check out the array of exciting courses being offered.  Application deadline: May 1.

CATHOLIC INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY - Catholic Tech 2025 is featuring an intensive collegiate course in Computer Science, Immersion into Italian culture, and a taste of student life.  This program is a transformative four weeks of adventure and learning in Castel Gandolfo, Italy. Discover for yourself by visiting the above links.  Students are encouraged to contact the admissions office to request a deadline extension.

FULL SAIL UNIVERSITY - Enjoy a unique opportunity to explore the Epic Games Event in a world of game development!  Join Full Sail on Sunday, June 1, from 1pm to 4pm ET in Orlando Health Fortress to Level Up with Epic Games.  This is a free event showcasing careers in game, virtual production , and interactive 3D technologies. Space is limited, register here.  Can't attend?  Contact EPIC GAMES.

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