Selecting a college is a big decision. College Prep Marin guides students and families along every step of the journey. We spend time getting to know each student, helping to discover their talents and interests. We assist in determining the unique factors that are most important to each student in their choice of college and identify colleges and universities that are the best fit - academically, socially and financially.
College Prep Marin works with a limited number of families in order to give prompt, personal attention to each student. Hourly services are available to students prior to 10th grade. Various packages are available for students having completed their freshman year of high school.
All services begin with a 90-minute session with the student and one or both parents. We will cover curriculum choices, standardized testing and test prep, extracurricular and summer activities and an overview of the college admissions process. Topics addressed during this session are determined by the interests and needs of the family and can include discussion of student's area of academic or special interest, colleges of interest, and information on what colleges are looking for in applicants.
High School Freshmen
Laying the groundwork for college choices and options begins in the 9th grade. Thoughtful planning will enable students to focus on their strengths and make the most of high school opportunities. Guidance for freshmen typically involves semi-annual meetings and includes:
Discussion of academic goals and current academic standing
Planning of high school course work
Guidance in the selection of extracurricular activities
Planning for summer activities including enrichment, volunteering, internships, summer jobs
Suggestions for building strong relationships with teachers and counselors
Standardized test timelines, preparation, and recommendations for tutors
Special planning and assistance for Visual and Performing Artists, Athletes and those with Learning Differences
Referrals to neuropsychologists, private tutors, education specialists, academic coaches, and consultants who will assist in therapeutic placements
High School Sophomores and Juniors
The Comprehensive Package
Some students are ready to start thinking about the college search process in sophomore year and for others, junior year is the optimal time to begin. Performing artists, athletes, STEM students and those applying to very selective universities and colleges will benefit from starting early and planning carefully. Students with learning differences typically require extra time and assistance and find that starting early enables them to manage the process with less stress. Services are personalized and specific to each student and may include:
Review of student transcript and test scores
Course selection discussion and guidance
Standardized testing timelines, preparation, and recommendations for tutors
Guidance in the selection of extracurricular activities
Planning for summer activities including enrichment, volunteering, internships, summer jobs
Guidance on teacher and counselor recommendations
In-depth assessments to identify student aptitudes and interests; exploration of potential careers and majors
Assistance in building a comprehensive activities resume
Exploration and identification of the unique fit-factors that are most important to your student in the choice of colleges
Research, development and refinement of a balanced list of colleges created exclusively for your student
Coaching on how to conduct further research
Planning for and getting the most out of college visits
Advice on Early Action/Early Decision options
Comprehensive individualized timelines including task and target deadlines
Set up and use of Custom College Plan software
Interview preparation and practice
Extensive essay support including: brainstorming and refinement of topics to reveal student strengths; essay review and direction regarding content and structure; editing for grammar and accuracy
Review of applications prior to submission
Discussion regarding financial aid, merit/institutional aid, if desired
Special planning and assistance for Visual and Performing Artists, Athletes and those with Learning Differences
Referrals to neuropsychologists, private tutors, education specialists, academic coaches, and consultants who will assist in therapeutic placements
Guidance and support with the final decision
Discussions with student and parents as appropriate throughout the process
Transfer Students
Whether transferring from a 2- or 4-year college, we will help you find your place. Guidance for transfer students is tailored to the needs of the student and can include:
Discussion of academic goals and current academic standing
Guidance in selection of internships and summer activities
In-depth assessments to identify student aptitudes and interests; exploration of potential careers
Assistance in building a resume
Exploration and identification of the unique fit-factors that are most important in the choice of colleges
Research, development and refinement of a balanced list of colleges
Coaching on how to conduct further research
Planning for and getting the most out of college visits
Comprehensive individualized timelines including task and target deadlines
Interview preparation and practice
Extensive essay support
Review of applications prior to submission
Guidance and support with the final decision
Discussions with student and parents as appropriate throughout the process