College Counseling Prepares Students for Life Beyond Chatham

Dean of College Counseling Dr. Erin McHugh personally guides each student through the college application process during individual and small group meetings throughout a student’s junior and senior years. 

“Our College Counseling program is designed to offer support to our students as they prepare for life beyond Chatham Hall. It requires a good deal of self-reflection and organization, but the students are well prepared by the time they take the next step,” Dr. McHugh said.

By the end of the fall semester, every student has completed some form of college preparation, be it through attending a fair or visit by a college representative, taking the PSAT, or participating in an essay writing workshop. 

This year, a small group of seniors also had the opportunity to go to the University of Lynchburg for a tour and to apply and receive their admission decision the same day. During a trip to Washington, D.C. over Fall Long Weekend, a group of international students were able to visit Georgetown and Howard Universities. 

The Class of 2025 also recently participated in the Junior Class Trip, during which they attended open houses at the University of Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University and visited the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. 

“The Junior Class Trip to Richmond was such an awesome experience. I was able to get to know my class better and learn a lot about what I want for my next step in my academic career! Touring the two different schools gave me a chance to see what I'm looking for in a college and start planning for the future,” said Rowan Ruppel ‘25.

Looking ahead, the Class of 2024 is finishing off their fall applications and will await final decisions into the spring. Good luck, seniors!