Unlocking Futures: The Power of The Sycamore School’s College and Career Team

At The Sycamore School (TSS), our mission is to prepare students for life beyond high school, equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in any path they choose. Our dedicated College and Career team is central to this mission, a dynamic group of professionals committed to guiding our juniors and seniors as they navigate their future plans. From exploring career options to completing college applications, our team provides unparalleled support, ensuring every student is ready to soar after graduation.

Building a Foundation for Success: Junior Seminar

Our journey begins with the junior seminar, an integral part of our College & Career Preparedness program. This class immerses students in various experiences designed to broaden their scope of career options and sharpen their skills. Throughout the year, students engage with various guest speakers, each a leader in their respective fields. This year alone, we hosted twenty-nine distinguished professionals, including Dr. Courtney Porter, a forensic legal psychologist from Marymount University, and Dr. Amanda Taylor, Assistant Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at American University. These sessions provide students with invaluable insights into different careers and industries.

In addition to exposure to diverse career paths, juniors create resumes, participate in mock job interviews, and work diligently on their capstone projects. These activities not only prepare them for future job searches but also help them effectively articulate their strengths and achievements.

Navigating the College Admissions Process: Senior Seminar

As students transition to their senior year, our support intensifies. The senior seminar offers comprehensive assistance throughout the college application process. From crafting an initial list of potential colleges to visiting campuses and completing applications, our team is there every step of the way. We provide personalized guidance on writing compelling college essays, ensuring each student’s unique voice and experiences shine through.

One of the standout features of our support system is our mastery-based transcript. Unlike traditional transcripts, this live document allows students to continuously update their achievements, showcasing mastered skills and completed projects. This innovative approach gives our students a unique advantage in the admissions process, allowing them to present a comprehensive picture of their abilities and accomplishments. Moreover, our team maintains ongoing communication with college admissions offices, ensuring they understand the value and rigor of our mastery-based system.

Beyond College: Preparing for All Paths

At TSS, we recognize that college is not the only path to success. Our team offers tailored support for students directly entering the workforce to help them secure internships and job opportunities. Whether crafting professional portfolios or providing interview coaching, we ensure all students are equipped for their chosen paths.

This year, our efforts have borne impressive results. Nine of our seniors applied to colleges and were accepted into prestigious institutions such as American University, The University of Virginia, The College of William & Mary, Columbia University, and George Mason University. In total, our students received offers from 37 different schools, with many opting to stay on the East Coast and within a 200-mile radius of Arlington.

Pride in Our Students’ Achievements

We are incredibly proud of our seniors’ accomplishments and excited for what the future holds for them. The College and Career team’s unwavering dedication has played a crucial role in their success, providing the tools and support needed to navigate their post-high school journeys with confidence and competence.

At The Sycamore School, we believe in the power of preparation, guidance, and personalized support. Our College and Career team embodies this belief, working tirelessly to ensure every student is ready to face the future with clarity and purpose. As our students step into the next chapter of their lives, we are confident they are well-equipped to achieve their dreams and make a meaningful impact on the world.