College Counseling
Guidance Rooted in Growth, Fit, and Confidence
At Kirby, college counseling isn’t a checklist at the end of high school—it’s a four-year journey of reflection and discovery. Students learn to ask the questions that matter most: Who am I becoming? Where do I thrive? What kind of community do I want to join? Through this process, they build applications that tell a story grounded in authenticity, not performance.
What Makes Kirby Different
Whole-Person First, Outcomes Follow
Kirby students learn to think deeply, write persuasively, and communicate with confidence. They leave with the habits of mind that selective colleges recognize: curiosity, independence, and a strong sense of self.
Fit Over Prestige
Success isn’t defined by rankings; it’s defined by alignment. Kirby graduates attend a wide range of institutions—from liberal arts colleges and art schools to major research universities and Ivy Leagues—because their college lists are built on fit, not flash.
Relational, Individualized Support
Our intentionally small community means every student is known and every family has access to individualized guidance. Students work one-on-one with our College Counselor throughout the process, supported by a faculty who know their strengths and aspirations
The path doesn’t need to be perfect or linear. My role is to guide students through the worries, anchor them in their values, and remind them—anything is possible.
Dot Kowal, College Counselor
Dot Kowal, MFT, College Counselor
With over 15 years in independent schools (Sonoma Academy, Woodside Priory, Crystal Springs Uplands), Dot brings the rare blend of admissions insight and adolescent wellbeing. A licensed psychotherapist, she centers her work on balance, courage, and genuine fit—helping students navigate the process with clarity and calm.
The Kirby Pathway
Middle School: Foundations, Not Pressure |
The middle school years are about building habits, confidence, and curiosity. In 8th grade, families meet individually with the Assistant Head of School to look ahead, exploring course pathways and future options without rushing the college process. |
Grades 9-10: Exploration and Balance |
Students are encouraged to explore interests, stretch into challenges, and pursue joy in learning. Family education nights introduce the college process, financial aid, and long-term planning. |
Grade 11: Research and Readiness |
Juniors begin meeting regularly with Dot to reflect on fit, build college lists, and prepare strong applications. Workshops guide essay writing, testing strategy, and timeline planning. |
Grade 12: Apply with Confidence |
Seniors receive individualized support at every stage — from finalizing essays and reviewing applications to navigating offers and financial aid decisions. College representatives visit Kirby’s campus, giving students direct access to admissions officers and real conversations about fit and opportunity. |
A Calmer, More Human Process
In an era when college admissions can feel like a race, Kirby’s counseling philosophy redefines success. We replace anxiety with agency, comparison with curiosity. Students leave confident, grounded, and ready to take their next step, to college and into adulthood.
Tools & Transparency
- SCOIR: for college research, list building, and document submission
- Application & Essay Workshops: integrated into the senior fall calendar
- Financial Aid Nights: with university experts covering FAFSA, CADAA, and scholarships
- Equity & Access: counseling aligned with Kirby’s Tiered Tuition model — every family receives information and support for their unique financial profile
- Colleges Admissions Rep Visits: More than 20 College Admissions Reps come to the Kirby campus to meet with our students, allowing them an opportunity to learn more about specific colleges as well as to demonstrate interest
College Acceptances
Kirby graduates have been accepted to a wide range of colleges and universities across the U.S. and abroad—from creative conservatories to top research institutions.
