Academics

College Counseling

At Chatham Hall, you'll actively participate in the college preparation process.

We begin with conversations during the first and second years as you begin to think about the "why" of college, and then progress to asking what you expect from the college experience. This process of guided introspection helps you make appropriate curricular choices while building a variety of life skills. With the support of the dean of college counseling, advisors, faculty, and parents, as a junior you'll begin to ask where this growth will take place as you begin to build your college lists and embark on the college selection process as a senior.

Some components of the college counseling process include:

PSAT preparation and results analysis
Tours of area colleges and universities
Self-discovery exercises and analysis related to college and career choices
Essay-writing practice (in conjunction with English classes)
Planning and maximizing college visits
Completing the Common Application
Interview skills
Access to SCOIR, the college planning software used by students and parents
Meeting representatives from colleges visiting Chatham Hall
Evaluating pros and cons of early decision/early action
Assistance with financial aid and scholarships
Making the most of the college organization website

College Counseling

List of 1 members.

Dr. Erin McHugh

Dean of College Counseling; Standardized Testing Coordinator

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Dean of College Counseling Dr. Erin McHugh began at Chatham Hall in 2017. Erin has received an Ed.D. from Saint Joseph's University, M.A. from La Salle University, and B.A. from Loyola University Maryland. She previously worked as a scholarship consultant for International Scholarship and Tuition Services and the director of enrollment management for the Temple University College of Liberal Arts.

Program Highlights

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Personalized Counseling

The College Counseling Office welcomes students of all years to stop by and talk about their options at the collegiate level! Dean of College Counseling Dr. Erin McHugh has years of experience in college admissions at both the high school and collegiate level, making her an incredible resource for our students.
Junior College Trip

Each year, the junior class travels off campus for a 1-2 day trip to learn about regional colleges. Whenever possible, the College Counseling Office partners with the History and English Departments to visit a location that ties into that year’s curriculum.
College Counseling 101

During the spring semester of junior year through the fall semester of senior year, students are enrolled in weekly, small group classes where they explore the college application process, learn about different institutions, and receive personalized assistance in completing their applications.
College Prep Day

Every October, we set aside one day where all grades participate in some level of college prep. The seniors participate in a College Counseling workshop all morning, receiving help from faculty to write essays and complete applications. To help every student decide whether applying test-optional is the right choice for them or not, we dedicate one morning to the PSAT so students can experience standardized testing and become more familiar with the exams.
College Visits & Fairs

College representatives visit campus throughout the fall, and weekend trips include opportunities to visit college campuses and fairs in the region. Students are encouraged to schedule college visits during school breaks, like the Fall and Winter Long Weekends and Spring Break.
College Affordability & Funding

A crucial part of the college search process is finding a financial fit, so students and families have access to resources to help with financial aid and college funding. We partner with SMARTTRACK to offer the College Funding High School Initiative, which provides families with free resources to help with planning and paying less for college. This includes twice-yearly live parent education workshops to help families of all grade levels develop an affordable funding plan for college.