Step 03
Which Schools
Building a private school admissions list means looking beyond rankings and finding schools where you can thrive. Compare academics, activities, community, commute, and whether day or boarding life suits your family. Open houses, online events, current students, and alumni can reveal details a website cannot. Use each conversation and campus experience to decide which New England prep schools genuinely match your interests and values.
Attend School Events
Whether it's going to open houses, first looks, attending online seminars, or seeing sports games or performances, these events are filled with valuable information that will guide you along the way.
Even if they aren't, you are still showing your face as much as you can, which is very important in this process!
Resources
If you know anyone who has gone to any of the schools you are applying to, be sure to contact them! I know, at first it might seem awkward to talk with someone you barely know about some school, but it really pays off.
Having many perspectives in this process is key.
Commute
For day students (like me), the commute to a school is one of the biggest factors in your decision. Is it too far away? Do you want to consider boarding now?
Schools that are 30-40 minutes away are usually the most one should go. After that, it becomes too hectic, especially as you might stay late there.
Community
A school's community is really what drives the decision. They might be great at everything, but have an unsettling vibe or feeling at the school. I know what you are wondering: how do I get to know a school's community?
The best time to do it is there! At your visit, pay attention to how you feel on campus. Can you see yourself fitting in?
Ask key questions, inquire about the school's values, academic philosophy, and how they show it on campus.