Storm King sophomores and juniors got a jump start in the college search process from a special guest speaker. On January 30, 2020, Executive Director of Colleges That Change Lives (CTCL) Maria Furtado, joined the students in the Walter Reade Jr. Theatre for a candid, in-depth conversation about finding the right college and college admissions.
CTCL is a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement and support of a student-centered college search process. To that end, CTCL educates students, families, counselors and the public about the accessibility of a quality post-secondary educational experience and helps students find a best-fit college that develops a lifelong love of learning.
Ms. Furtado works with college counselors, students, and outreach agencies across the nation to help promote a greater understanding of and an appreciation for topics related to college choice and a student-centered college search. During her presentation, she encouraged the students to “do their research,” explore colleges they may have never heard of, and apply to those offering programs that truly spark their interests.
During his introduction, Headmaster Jonathan Lamb stressed that as a college preparatory school the goal of Storm King is to “help students prepare for college, but even more, to prepare them to lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.” SKS’ Director of College Counseling Dr. Marti Kwon added that the college search process is not only a great learning experience, but can also fun. “Attending the right college will change you in so many ways that you may not be able to anticipate right now,” explained Dr. Kwon. “Ms. Furtado is here to give you new perspectives about how to go about searching for colleges and tips on choosing a school that is best for you and your individual aspirations and interests.”
The discussion was well-attended by students, faculty, and parents. Many stayed after the presentation to ask questions and chat with Ms. Furtado. “Thank you to Ms. Furtado for traveling to Storm King and giving our students a different perspective as they experience this important time in their lives. I will encourage them to take her advice and apply what they learned today as we go through the college search process together,” explained Dr. Kwon after the presentation.