College admission officials share insights with RE families

In presentations delivered from the Lewis Family Auditorium stage, each admission representative explained and explored different categories of academic institutions: Canfield shared information about institutions that offer pre-professional or specialized schools – such as for engineering, fine arts, business and public health; Rodriguez talked about the benefits of small, liberal arts colleges; and Springall discussed large, public research universities. All encouraged students and families to consider what category of institution best fit their goals and approach, and to expand their universe of colleges and universities.

They also shared insights on essay writing and applications, college rankings, student activities and jobs, and course selection. Rodriguez reminded parents to trust their students and their college counselors at RE. "I encourage you to nudge, ask questions of your student about the process, but don't drill them about it, don't make every conversation you have about college," he said. "This is not about you as a parent. This is their college search; give them the space to do that. Let them drive the process."

Springall urged families to take their searches beyond their living rooms and computer screens.

"I encourage you as loudly and as strongly as I can to look at places physically, go visit the places on your list," he said. "It's so important to be able to visualize yourself on the campus [and] say, 'Will I be happy here?'"

Canfield concluded the event with an invitation; she told families not to hesitate to reach out directly to admission officers with their questions.

"We love helping students," she said. "We love giving you advice. You have the whole summer to ask those questions and set up appointments; we want to help you through the process."