How to Navigate the College Application Process

Preparing for college can be beyond overwhelming. Between studying for the SATs and ACTs, writing college essays, filling out tons of applications, and figuring out financial aid, it’s easy for students to feel like they’re lost at sea with torn sails and no compass to guide them back to land. That’s why we believe it’s important for students to have an expert by their side who has the necessary experience to help them navigate the rough seas of the college application process. 

​At Chester County Futures, we connect our high school students with the opportunities and ​guidance they need to map out their path to life after high school. One way we do this is by partnering with local experts, like our friends Kathryn White and Michael Gardner at G&W College Prep Consulting.

With their combined 30+ years of experience as Upward Bound counselors, they have helped over 600 high school students prepare and enroll in post-secondary education. As a private company, G&W works with CCF to help guide our 11th and 12th grade students through the college admissions process and help them learn important skills, like how to set academic and career goals, writing a stellar college essay, completing the FAFSA application, and how to understand their financial aid letter. When it comes to preparing for college, they know all the ins and outs and can help students plan out their career path every step of the way.
 
In addition to the work we do with G&W, CCF walks our students through the process of applying to college and trade school, as well as finding and applying for scholarships. We help students set up the Common App, walk them through the FAFSA application, and show them where to look to find public and private scholarships they can apply for. We even provide students with a variety of study tips, techniques and tools to help them achieve success in school and beyond.
 
Applying for college doesn’t have to be confusing or overwhelming, and students don’t have to do it alone. When they have someone like CCF and G&W who understand the process and can point them in the right direction, it can make their journey so much smoother. All they need are the right tools, a solid plan and the right people in their corner. Then the rest is smooth sailing!
 
Chester County Futures can help high school students find the right college or post-secondary program for them. We also provide support around identifying a career path and connect them with the tools and resources they need to achieve success. Want to learn more about our after-school program? Visit us at www.ccfutures.org/programs!