While the Class of 2026 has been talking about college for the past year with their counselors, the students and families recently heard from members of the new GA College Counseling Advisory Board as they were led through the annual Case Studies Program. 

This new advisory board, led by Director of College Counseling Karen Mason, participated in a two-day program on GA’s campus that included meetings with Head of School Rich Schellhas 1760 and Head of Upper School Dave Samson, a campus tour, a presentation of signature and

academic programs by faculty leaders, and interacted with seniors through a student panel. They also attended classes and met with the college counseling team before sharing with faculty the latest admission trends and tips on writing effective letters of recommendation. 

The board also hosted the case study event where the Class of 2026 was divided into small groups and discussed three fake applications to a pretend college. The college reps provided anonymous leadership in helping families choose which student would be admitted, which would be waitlisted, and which would be denied. Lots of conversation, for and against, commenced among each of the group sessions before the entire class moved to the Honickman Auditorium to hear the full verdicts. It was at this time that the board introduced themselves and many presented their groups’ decisions. The board opened the floor for questions about college admissions and  

Thank you to the following college representatives for giving their time for our event: Sarah Marinacci (Clemson), Cornell LeSane (College of the Holy Cross), Christopher Gruber (Davidson College), Antonio Moore (Penn State), Melissa Falk (Richmond), Drew Hashimura (Tennessee), Matthew Malatesta (Union College), Michael Keaton (Board Member, Coalition for College), and Peaches Valdes (Wellesley).  

After experiencing GA Upper School life, the Board provided feedback on ways to highlight program strengths. The Board found GA students friendly and welcoming and were thrilled to be made honorary members of a House. The visit ensured that these college admission leaders have a deeper understanding of GA, and that the College Counseling team continues to enhance their presentation of students and GA to colleges.