Summer College Visits and Students’ International Travel Discussed at the BOE meeting

NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ – Director of School Counseling Jillian Shadis gave the Board of Education (BOE) an overview of her summer college visits at the Thursday, Sep. 26 BOE meeting. The board also heard a presentation regarding students’ summer trip to Italy.

Shadis visited multiple colleges in New York State (Binghamton, Cornell, Hobart & William Smith, Ithaca, and Syracuse) and four colleges in Virgina (James Madison, University of Richmond, University of Virginia, and Virginia Tech) as well as University of Delaware and University of Miami. Whenever possible she tried to meet the college admission representative in charge of New Providence.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE TAPINTO.NET NEWSLETTER

She gave a short synopsis of Ithica, University of Delaware, University of Richmond, and Virginia Tech. Each of these schools cater to different types of students and vouch different educational philosophies and atmosphere. The annual cost of the schools visited range from $93,892 (University of Miami) to $44,504 (James Madison University).

Shadis noted that all class 2025 and 2026 students in New Jersey must complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form. Those who do not wish to complete the FAFSA form may file a waiver.

Shadis also touched upon the multiple college rankings and how colleges are determined to be highly selective. She noted that only a few New Providence students have been accepted to the most selective schools during the past four years. Although she pointed out that each school’s selection process is anyone’s guess, she offered a few tips for students wishing to attend the most selective schools. Some of the characteristics that sets a student apart include significant high school accomplishments, demonstrations of intellectual curiosity, passion for something, and demonstrations of “who you are and how you will contribute.” Applicants should also understand and communicate why a specific school may be the right fit for them and consider applying for early decision or early action.

High School Principal Brian Henry, Department Head of World Language Michael Santore and Department Head of Visual and Practical Arts Jennifer Florencio gave an overview of the students’ summer trip to Italy. Henry explained that the district is making international trips available for students within their four years of high school. Future trips will be scheduled for the spring break instead of summer months. Students must be enrolled in high level art classes or at least intermediate level of the language class spoken at the trip destination. However, Henry noted that as the program evolves the criteria may change so that it will be available for broader section of the student population.

For more local news, visit TAPinto.net