Empowering Students for What Comes Next
Guided by Quaker values of reflection, integrity, and thoughtful discernment, the process encourages students to approach this next chapter with curiosity, confidence, and clarity about who they are and who they hope to become.
A Process of Discovery
Applying to college is more than completing forms or meeting deadlines—it is a sustained process of self-exploration. Students consider their interests, strengths, values, and aspirations. They ask who they are now, who they are becoming, and how they might contribute to the wider world.
The college search functions as an extended research project. Students learn to identify and assess their priorities, weigh options, craft thoughtful questions, and make significant decisions with growing confidence. At Friends, we emphasize that how students navigate this process is just as important as where they ultimately enroll.
Students are encouraged not to view high school as a means to a single end or a brand-name destination, but to focus on discovering environments where they will thrive intellectually, personally, and socially.
For more detailed resources—including standardized testing advice, the College Handbook, and financial aid guidance—visit the College Counseling Resource Board.
Building a Foundation
The first two years of Upper School allow students to write the opening chapter of their high school experience. We encourage them to use this time intentionally: to pursue courses that challenge and inspire them, engage in activities that spark interest, and explore emerging passions both in and beyond the classroom.
College-specific planning is intentionally light during these years; the emphasis is on growth, curiosity, and building a rich foundation.
College-related programs include:
- Financing a College Education Seminar (November) — open to all Upper School families
- Coffee for Freshmen and Sophomore Parents: SAT/ACT FAQ (December)
- Sophomore College Evening (February, optional)
- Practice ACT & SAT Exams (February & March; Sophomores sit for one and are encouraged to try both)
- College Tour (March; open to Sophomores and Juniors)
Individual Guidance & Meaningful Preparation
Junior year marks the formal beginning of the college process. From this point forward, college counselors work closely with students to guide them through each step. While the program is highly individualized, students and families also benefit from a range of group learning opportunities.
Junior–Senior Seminar
In the second semester of Junior year, students meet weekly in small seminars that continue through the first semester of Senior year. These sessions break the college process into manageable steps, with topics such as:
- Research and resources
- Developing interview skills
- Do’s and don’t’s of the college essay
- Understanding admission practices and timelines
This small-group format helps students build skills gradually and confidently.
Individual Counseling
Students also meet one-on-one with their assigned College Counselor. These conversations help counselors understand each student’s interests, strengths, and goals—perspective that informs the letters of recommendation they write and the advocacy they provide during the admission process.
Additional College-Related Programs
- College Admission Representative visits (open to Juniors & Seniors, fall)
- Case Studies Event for Seniors & parents (September)
- Senior College Night for parents (September)
- PSAT (October, for interested Juniors)
- College Coffees for parents: Senior (October), Junior (February & May)
- Financing a College Education Seminar (November; open to all US families)
- Junior College Night (November)
- ACT & SAT testing (Winter/Spring of Junior year; Fall of Senior year)
- Annual College Fair at UNIS (April; Juniors)
- Transition to College Talks (May; Seniors & parents)
A Journey Toward Purpose
Throughout the entire process, Friends Seminary students are encouraged to approach the college search with openness—willing to question assumptions, consider new possibilities, and reflect honestly on what kind of college environment will allow them to grow. With the support of experienced counselors, students learn to make courageous choices that align with who they are and who they hope to become.
Matriculation
Friends is proud to annouce the College Matriculation of the Class of 2026. Congratulations to our seniors!
Bates College | Northeastern University |
- Boston University
- Brown University
- Carnegie Mellon
- Colgate University
- Cornell University
- Duke University
- Emory University
- Georgetown University
- Haverford College
- University of Michigan
- New York University
- Northeastern University
- Northwestern University
- University of Pennsylvania
- Pitzer College
- Rice University
- University of Southern California
- Syracuse University
- Tufts University
- Tulane University
- Vassar College
- Washington University- St. Louis
- Wellesley College
- Wesleyan University
- Yale University
Get in Touch
Scheduling College Representative Visits to Friends Seminary
Please visit RepVisits to access Friends Seminary’s school visit calendar.
If you have further questions or cannot find a time slot that works for you, please feel free to email [email protected].