College Counseling Process

• When does college counseling begin? 
  Actually, your preparation for college began when you enrolled at Milken. Milken is a values based challenging college preparatory school with a rigorous dual curriculum grounded in academic and Judaic studies. Academically, you will be well prepared for success at any college or university.
  
  College counseling actively begins in the second semester of Grade 10 when we meet with students in their advisory groups to facilitate discussion about topics related to the college application and admission process. We also host a meeting for Grade 10 parents in the second semester to introduce the college counseling program.
  
  Beginning in Grade 11, students and parents meet individually with their counselor to customize an effective and personal approach to finding the most suitable post graduation plan. In addition, juniors and seniors and their parents follow a curriculum of group sessions, workshops, special programs, and individual meetings, all designed to usher them through the process. In Grade 11 we focus on the college search; in Grade 12 we focus on the college application. (For further information, please visit our  GRADE BY GRADE OVERVIEW  page.)
   
• What are the features of the college counseling program at Milken? 
  The Office of College Counseling provides an exemplary curriculum that heightens and builds self-awareness, self-exploration, and self-expression among our students as they make the transition from high school to college or other post-secondary options. The program is centered on the idea that the college search should be educational and developmental. We empower each student to participate fully from practical, responsible, and ethical perspectives.
  
  Three full time college counselors, with a wide range of experience and expertise as guidance and college admissions professionals, personally guide students and families through the college search and application process.
  
  Representatives and guest speakers from colleges, universities, and other educational organizations visit Milken regularly to meet with our students and present information at various events. In addition, we maintain a schedule of cutting edge programming that consists of:
  
   ■ PSAT testing
   ■ College counseling group sessions
   ■ UC application workshop
   ■ Financial aid workshop
   ■ Grade 10 parent night
   ■ Grade 11 parent night
   ■ Grade 12 family night
   ■ Case Studies workshop and college fair
   ■ Tour of east coast colleges
   ■ Alumni panel
   ■ Summer college essay workshop
  
  We also alert you to other events scheduled throughout the Los Angeles metropolitan area. (For further information, please visit our  GRADE BY GRADE OVERVIEW  page.)
   
• What is the timeline for college counseling? 
  Although searching for and applying to colleges can be stressful at times, your experienced and well versed college counselors will help you to stay organized and manage your time most effectively. We've developed a comprehensive program to assist you as you go through this process.
  
  You can download our detailed college counseling timeline here.
  
  For further information, please visit our  GRADE BY GRADE OVERVIEW  page.
   
• Do I need to hire an independent consultant? 

  Milken is a private college preparatory school and, as such, all aspects of college advising are included in the cost of tuition.  The Office of College Counseling is staffed by experienced professionals who are fully equipped to provide the tools and resources our students need to successfully navigate the college search and application process.  Our college counselors, who are full-time educators, are committed to providing individualized attention to each student and offering the most comprehensive programming available.  Although booming numbers of private consultants and independent tutoring companies are saturating the market and aggressively pitching their services to vulnerable students and their families, the college counseling staff at Milken are members of your community, have a vested interest in your child's success, and have your child's best interests at heart. Therefore, the Office of College Counseling should be your main resource and the college counselors should be your primary contact.

College Applications

• Should I apply to a large university or a small college? 
  The decision is up to you. Most colleges and universities have a "personality" that is influenced by several factors such as location (urban, suburban, rural), character (research oriented, liberal arts, specialized), and funding (state supported, private, heavily endowed). Some larger campuses might be high spirited, while smaller colleges might be more relaxed and low key. You and your college counselor will determine which type of campus environment works best for you.
   
• How many colleges should I apply to? 
  Once again the decision is yours. Most students apply to a variety of colleges and universities, all of which match their interests and meet their needs. The ideal college list will include schools representing a range of selectivity ("likely," "50/50," and "reach"). Typically, a student applies to no fewer than five colleges and no more than 15. You and your college counselor will work together to tailor your final college list.
   
• When should I apply to college? 
  College application deadlines vary. Additionally, there are several types of application plans which fall into the following categories:
  
  Rolling Decision - Used mostly by out-of-state public universities and some private institutions, a rolling decision plan enables a student to apply as early as September of the senior year and receive an admission decision four to six weeks after submission of the completed application.
  
  Early Decision - This is a binding and contractual option between the applicant and his/her first-choice college. Several, but not all, colleges and universities offer students the opportunity to apply and receive a decision earlier than the rest of the applicant pool. In turn, the student is required to withdraw all other applications and submit an enrollment agreement and deposit to that institution if admitted. Most early decision deadlines are November 1or November 15.
  
  Early Action - This is a non-binding option offered by several, but not all, colleges and universities. Students apply and receive a decision earlier than the rest of the applicant pool but are not bound to withdraw other applications or submit an enrollment agreement and deposit by a prescribed date. Most early action deadlines are November 1, November 15, or December 1.
  
  Regular Decision - This is the standard application plan used by most applicants. Students apply by a published deadline determined by the college or university and receive a decision in early spring.
  
  Most students begin working on their applications in August prior to their senior year and submit all of their applications by winter break.
   
• What does a complete college application consist of? 
  At minimum, most colleges and universities require the submission of a completed preformatted application and current high school transcript. It is not uncommon for colleges to also require the submission of several other documents including a counselor recommendation, teacher recommendations, official standardized test scores (sent directly from the testing agency), and at least one essay. Some colleges might also require supplements that ask for additional information.
  
  Students who are applying into specialized visual or performing arts programs may be required to submit a portfolio or participate in an audition.
  
  Requirements vary from college to college. It is important to investigate each college's requirements before you apply. Most college application requirements are listed on the college's website, in information materials or in college guidebooks. Your college counselor will help you sift through each college's requirements.
   

Recommendations

• What is the counselor recommendation and how do I get it? 
  The counselor recommendation is your official statement of support from Milken Community High School. It is sent along with your official transcript and our high school profile. Your college counselor writes a letter on your behalf based on information gathered from several sources including your teachers, your parents, and our personal conversations with you. Counselor recommendations are sent in your senior year after your final list of colleges has been compiled.
   
• What are teacher recommendations and how do I get them? 
  Whereas the counselor recommendation addresses your contributions to school life, teacher recommendations address your strengths and abilities in the classroom. There is a protocol for requesting and securing teacher recommendations. (Your counselor will discuss this protocol in detail as you progress through your college application process). It is your responsibility to contact two of your teachers (preferably from two different subject areas) to request letters of recommendation and provide teachers with all of the necessary materials (recommendation forms, stamped addressed envelope, your list of colleges with deadlines) in a timely and efficient manner.
   
• Do I need any other recommendations? 
  Most students who are applying to specialized arts programs as an athlete will be required to submit an additional recommendation from a teacher or coach. Many colleges regardless of the field in which you are applying will also welcome additional letters of support if they can provide supplemental information from a unique perspective. Check with your colleges for specific details.
   

Standardized Testing

• When should I take the SAT? 
  Generally speaking no one should take the SAT Reasoning Test or SAT Subject Tests before the tenth grade year. For detailed information please visit our  STANDARDIZED TESTING  page where you will find a grade by grade overview.
   
• Which test should I take? The SAT or the ACT? 
  The SAT Reasoning Test only tests math and English language skills. The ACT with Writing, on the other hand, tests four subject areas: English, math, reading and science, and includes an additional writing section. Students who are weaker in math sometimes benefit from taking the ACT, since math encompasses only one quarter of the exam as opposed to one third of the exam as on the SAT. However, there is no evidence to suggest that students who take the ACT receive higher comparable scores than students who take the SAT. The Office of College Counseling does not maintain a preference of one test over another. We consult on a case-by-case-basis so that an informed decision can be made by each student. It is entirely up to the student. All colleges and universities will accept the submission of a score report from either the SAT or ACT.
   
• How can I prepare for standardized test? 
  There are many companies and services available that specialize in standardized test preparation. Our website includes list of external links to a number of test prep companies with which our students have had successful experiences. (For further information, please visit our  RESOURCES  page.) Additionally, a simple Google search or a browse through the phone book should yield good results. Ideally, test prep is done five to seven weeks before a test date administration.

Financial Aid

• How do I apply for financial aid? 
  Every college and university requires the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) from need based financial aid applicants. Several colleges and universities also require their own supplemental forms. Check with each individual institution to determine what specific forms are required. For detailed information, visit our financial aid page.
   
• When do I apply for financial aid? 
  Online forms will be available through the FAFSA website in December of your senior year. The filing period begins January 1. FAFSA forms cannot be submitted prior to that date. Most colleges require the FAFSA to be filed no later than March 1. What is the difference between need based and merit based scholarships? Need based scholarships are typically granted to students who demonstrate documented financial need. Merit based scholarships are typically granted to students based on their academic, artistic, and/or athletic talent. Some scholarships use both financial need and merit to determine who receives an award. Please visit our financial aid page for more information.
   

Resources

• What are some useful resources to begin the college search process? 
  The Office of College Counseling at Milken is well equipped to provide all of the resources you'll ever need. We have an extensive reference area consisting of guidebooks, catalogues, and DVDs and videos covering a wide range of interests and topics including financial aid, scholarships, testing, and subject specific information. In addition, our website is regularly updated to include the most current information on the college search and application process, complete with external links to a multitude of resources. (For further information, please visit our  RESOURCES  page.)
   

Essay Writing

• When should I begin to write my college essay? 
  Of course your entire Milken experience is setting a foundation for a compelling college essay. The Office of College Counseling recommends that you begin the writing process in earnest during the summer before your senior year. You should come in to twelfth grade with a solid outline or first draft of a college essay that effectively conveys who you are. You and your college counselor will then revise and refine your essay to submit to colleges and universities. (For further information, please visit our  WRITING YOUR COLLEGE ESSAY  page.)
   
• How many college essays will I be required to write? 
  Most colleges and universities require one long personal essay that can generally be used, with some adaptation, for each college. Several colleges and universities also require some smaller, short-answer essays specific to each institution. Check each individual application for essay requirements.
   
• Where can I find information about writing my college essay? 
  There are several guidebook and websites to assist students in writing effective college essays. Some of our favorite resources on the web are: Free Advice and Tips and Advice from Jim Bock, Dean of Admission, Swarthmore College. Some of our favorite guide books are: On Writing the College Application Essay by Harry Bauld, and The College Application Essay by Sarah Myers McGinty. (For further information, please visit our  WRITING YOUR COLLEGE ESSAY  page.)
   
• How does Milken help me with my college essay? 
  Your college counselors are available to review each draft of your college essay. We also cover the topic college essay writing during our college counseling group sessions. In addition, we offer an optional summer college essay writing workshop.
   

Jewish Life at College

• How do I find information about Jewish life at college? 
  Just as everyone at Milken celebrates and practices Judaism differently so do students on college campuses across the country. College admission offices may have only limited information to offer concerning Jewish life on campus. Therefore it is recommended that you contact the Hillel chapter or Jewish student union at each college and university that you are considering. Most college campuses offer at least some resources that will enable you to build on the foundation of your Milken experience in developing and celebrating your Judaism. (For further information, please visit our  CELEBRATING JEWISH LIFE AT COLLEGE  page.)
   
• How do I know if a particular campus environment (Kosher food, Shabbat services, Jewish population, etc.) is right for me? 
  Just as everyone at Milken celebrates and practices Judaism differently so do students on college campuses across the country. College admission offices may have only limited information to offer concerning Jewish life on campus. Therefore it is recommended that you contact the Hillel chapter or Jewish student union at each college and university that you are considering. Most college campuses offer at least some resources that will enable you to build on the foundation of your Milken experience in developing and celebrating your Judaism. (For further information, please visit our  CELEBRATING JEWISH LIFE AT COLLEGE  page.) How can I find information about colleges and universities in Israel? Our website has a variety of resources on postgraduate programs in Israel. For further information, please visit our PROGRAMS IN ISRAEL page.
   
• How can I find information about colleges and universities in Israel? 
  Our website has a variety of resources on postgraduate programs in Israel. For further information, please visit our  PROGRAMS IN ISRAEL  page.
   

Visiting Colleges and Universities

• Why should I visit a college or university? 
  College guidebooks and websites are great resources but can only offer a limited amount of information. One of the best ways to gain a personal, firsthand perspective on a college or university is to visit its campus. A visit will provide insight into a college's atmosphere, social life, availability of resources, academic dynamics, and "soul" of the institution. Furthermore, several colleges and universities track visits as a strong demonstration of interest in their institution, so the campus visit may be taken into consideration in the admission process. It is strongly suggested that you also take the opportunity to explore the neighborhood surrounding the campus in order to see if the area offers activities and lifestyle that you are looking for.
  
  When you visit a campus consider the following:
             
   ■ How big is the campus?
   ■ What is the school's character?
   ■ What is the student body like?
   ■ How accessible are the faculty?
   ■ Do I feel comfortable on this campus?
  
   
• When should I go on visits? 
  We all know that junior and senior years are the most intense academically. There is no one right time to visit a campus, but it is crucial to schedule campus visits in a manner that will minimally interfere with your school responsibilities. Take advantage of school holidays, long weekends, and vacation periods to visit colleges and universities. Spring break of the junior year is an ideal time to begin visiting campuses. (Milken organizes an optional college tour of east coast colleges and universities during Tiyulim week.) You may also want to take a week or two during summer to visit campuses, but keep in mind that colleges and universities typically do not have a full scale operation during the summer and retain only a small percentage of students. Some families feel that it is more cost effective to wait until they know where their child has been admitted before they plan campus visits.
   
• How should I choose which colleges to visit? 
  In the junior year the college counseling office will help each student create a balanced list of potential colleges and universities that reflect their interests and abilities. Utilizing this list, families may want to plan their travel geographically based on the location of where each of those colleges and universities is located. Try to arrange your itinerary so your schools of primary interest are among your campus visits.
   
• How do I plan a visit? 
  To make the most out of your campus visit, it is best to contact the admission office well in advance. After targeting campuses to visit, contact each admission office to learn about their campus visit policies. Most college and university websites include detailed information about arranging a campus visit. Campus visits will usually include a student led tour and an information session conducted by an admission officer. Some campuses might even offer options such as an on-campus interview or the opportunity to observe a class.
  
  Many colleges and universities host campus-wide open houses or overnight visits with a current student during peak school break periods. Invitations are typically sent to all students who have expressed an interest via an inquiry to the admission office.
  
  Although the formal arranged visit will be very insightful, you might also want to take time on each campus to explore independently from the admission office: Have lunch in the campus dining hall; talk with students you meet in the campus center; have a cup of coffee on the quad and people-watch; and read the campus newspaper.
  
  Campus visits can be tiring. Therefore, we recommend no more that two visits in one day. Remember to budget enough time in your itinerary to travel from one campus to another. (Even if two campuses are in the same city or metropolitan area, distances and traffic might make your travel more challenging than anticipated.)
  
  Most college websites include advice that will help to make your travel planning easier, including information on lodging, public transportation, local places of interest, and directions.
   
• Where can I get more information on campus visits? 
  Two excellent resources for planning a college visit are The College Board's Campus visits and College Interviews by Zola Dincin Schneider and The Princeton Review's Visiting College Campuses by Janet Spencer and Sandra Maleson.