1. Initial Meeting

The initial meeting includes both the student and family with the CCC counselor. The goal of this meeting is to assess needs and prepare our course of action, based on a review of report cards, transcripts, diagnostic and standardized tests done to date and any extenuating circumstances that may have a bearing on the college planning process.

2. Collection and review of educational and personal histories, school records and educational testing

Your counselor will complete a thorough assessment of the student's personal and academic profile, special skills, talent and needs regarding the college selection process.

3. On-going assessment to establish or clarify educational and personal goals

Based on formal career and vocational testing, we discuss possible careers and college majors. We help guide the student's course selection, intern opportunities, summer plans/programs and extracurricular activities to maximize educational success. Created from student's activity resume, an Activity Ranking Sheet is produced which is instrumental in completing college applications.

4. Identification and selection of appropriate colleges

An initial list of colleges which may be of interest to the student is compiled. As the student gains greater focus the list will be revised. Our goal is to help the student create a final "well-balanced" list of six to ten schools including those which are a "reach", a "target" and "safety" schools. Students are taught how to be an "Educated Visitor" while touring college campuses. Guidance is given regarding Early Decision/Action/Rolling/Regular Admission plans.

5. Assistance in the organization of college materials and tracking of tasks and details

To stay organized and productive, students are given assistance in developing a timeline chart and checklist.

6. Preparation for, insight into, effective school visits and interviews

Formal interview preparation and additional reading materials help the student prepare for interviews. Students are given materials for tracking visits and admission information sessions. CCC does not set up visits or interviews at colleges on behalf of the student.

7. Assistance with college applications and essay completion

Application assistance includes discussion of recommendation letters, additional supplementary materials or portfolios, special requirements for individual applications, application strategy, etc. Your counselor assists in the development of a detailed personal resume. We will provide in-depth critiques of all pieces of application writing, with particular attention given to choice of type, style, tone, organization, grammar and other technical details. We will review the student's completed applications to minimize accidental errors.

8. Guidance in Standardized Testing

Your counselor will make recommendations regarding which tests to take and when. We will discuss test prep strategy and make referrals to test prep organizations and tutors as needed. We will provide assistance in interpreting scores relative to your colleges of interest.

9. Regular communication with students and parents throughout the application process

The communication with students will occur via individual meetings supplemented by email exchanges or telephone calls as necessary.
Parents will be copied on emails sent to the students.

10. Resource Library

The student will have access to our rich library that includes college materials, test prep materials, guidebooks, video and other college reference books.

11. Preparation for College

Cohen's College Connection will assist the student in preparing their four year plan, and in understanding the responsibilities of college.