Finding the perfect match

The college search is a journey - not a result. The Ann S. Powell Office of College Counseling works with students and their families to find choices that best suit a student’s interests and aspirations. Our approach is student-centered and collaborative. We believe it is important for students to lead the college search journey with support and guidance from our office and their families. 

Our comprehensive program is introduced in the ninth grade, and students are provided with a timeline each year, which includes instruction in practical tasks such as testing, interviewing, college essay writing and resume creation. Individual meetings focus on creating and editing the student’s college list, addressing family-specific questions and concerns and supporting applications for scholarship opportunities.Families are encouraged to attend the Tidewater Independent Schools annual college fair each spring, which provides them with the opportunity to meet admissions representatives from over 100 colleges and universities. Students are also encouraged to connect with admissions representatives who visit our campus (approximately 80 annually). Several events are held at NSA throughout the year, including a panel program with various college admissions deans and a mock college application review, where students learn the basics of how applications are reviewed by colleges. To complete the journey, seniors participate in a series of workshops in the spring that address the academic, social and financial transition to college.