Faculty in Focus 

What are the current challenges for students applying to college and how does the College Guidance team help? 

 

AI is changing how college admissions offices operate. Using AI to review applications creates a faster turnaround for the colleges, but it can mean essays, activities and “softer” attributes don’t get as much attention. Our challenge is to present the “whole” student in an atmosphere that is more data-driven. Students need to make their personal experiences come to life for the admissions counselor. They contact admissions officers and introduce themselves; they make short videos of themselves showing what they do.

SAT scores, which were optional for many schools, are becoming required or desired, and we are beginning SAT Prep in our college guidance classes. 

Susanne Mueller
Dean of College Placement and Career Development

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Our College Guidance class and our individual counseling go well beyond “How can I get into college?” We try to help students understand the practicality in college choices, engage in career planning and guide individual readiness: resume writing, internships and building connections in the community. I want our students to know that college is an opportunity to develop interests and join communities of people who share their interests. Having graduated in January 2025, I’m close to the college experience. Helping students understand how rich the college experience can be is the goal—if they take advantage of it. 

Matthew Salazar
College Placement Counselor

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The college application process is all about strategy; we help students develop their own strategy. In individual counseling sessions and during the class, we introduce students to a wide variety of schools and discuss their merits; we review all scholarship opportunities and try to be realistic about what’s possible. 

We have hosted College Fairs attended by 32 in-state and out-of-state colleges. Lunch & Learn sessions bring in representatives from law enforcement, health care, veterinary medicine and other professions for career development. On Instant Decision Days, college representatives interview students who have applied and can offer them admission immediately. 

Marcus Morales
College Placement Counselor