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CLASS OF 2027:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Chat and Text 988lifeline.org/chat or call or text 988
COLLEGE & CAREER EVENTS CALENDAR
This page provides details and registration links for all upcoming events. If you are looking for events specifically pertaining to financial aid, CLICK HERE.
UPCOMING EVENTS!
Check back regularly—this page will be updated as new events are scheduled.
The Importance of the Supplemental Essays
Thursday, July 16th | 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
Supplemental essays are crucial for college applications because they allow applicants to demonstrate their individual personality, expertise, and fit within a specific institution. They provide a platform to go beyond academic achievements and show a deeper understanding of the school and its programs. In essence, supplemental essays offer a chance to present a well-rounded picture of the applicant, highlighting their unique qualities and why they are a good fit for the college. Join this session to learn more about why this piece of your application is critical and how to make the most of it.
The Journey to the White Coat
Thursday, July 16th | 1:00-2:00 p.m.
This workshop will go over the path to becoming a doctor. The facilitator is a first-generation MCPS graduate with a B.S. in Biological Sciences from UMD who is currently in medical school and a leader in the Latino community.
The College Seesaw—Balancing Dreams with Financial Reality
Thursday, July 16th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Choosing a college isn’t just about where your child wants to go. It’s about what your family can afford without disrupting the parent or child’s financial future. Learn how to set clear financial boundaries, identify schools that offer significant scholarship money, navigate the emotions of saying "no", what tools to use to do your research, and more.
What Colleges Are Looking for + 5 Ways Families Can Prepare for a Successful Admission Process
Thursday, July 16th | 9:00-10:00 p.m.
Join for an inside look at what colleges are really looking for and how families can prepare for a successful admission process. This session will cover: trends from the current admission cycle; the factors colleges weigh most heavily when making decisions; how students can know which classes to take; how much essays really matter, and for whom; why demonstrated interest can matter, and how to show it authentically; and what 9th and 10th graders can do now to set themselves up for a great process. There will also be a live Q&A to get your specific questions answered.
SAT Virtual Practice Test
Saturday, July 18th | 9:00 a.m.
Boost your scores with a free SAT practice exam. All students will participate in a realistic testing experience and receive an instant score report.
The Importance of Extracurriculars
Monday, July 20th | 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
Extracurricular activities are important because they offer students numerous benefits beyond academic learning, including fostering social skills, leadership development, and exploring interests. They can also enhance college applications and improve time management skills. Join this session to learn the benefits of getting involved.
Senior Year...Never Fear!
Tuesday, July 21st | 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Kick off your college planning with this virtual workshop from The College Coaches, which will cover action items for summer, the timeline for applying, key terms to understand, financial aid and merit aid basics, tips to reduce stress, understanding demonstrated interest, Common App basics, essay-writing dos and don'ts, and an explanation of what supplemental essays are. I hope many of you will take advantage of this important event and help get yourselves ready for college applications this fall!
College Essay Writing
Tuesday, July 21st | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Your college essay is more than just another application requirement, it's your opportunity to tell your story. Join for an interactive webinar designed to help students craft authentic, compelling personal essays that leave a lasting impression on admissions committees. Whether you're starting with a blank page or revising a draft, this session will provide practical strategies for choosing meaningful topics, organizing your ideas, and writing an essay that reflects who you are beyond your grades and test scores.
Searching for Scholarships
Tuesday, July 21st | 6:00-6:45 p.m.
Dr. Kim McCurdy from the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) will walk you through the scholarship search process with practical tips and where to look.
Financial Planning for College
Tuesday, July 21st | 8:00 p.m.
Get excited for your next big adventure - college is just around the corner! While the cost of college includes more than tuition and fees, you can handle it with the right tools and mindset. Join us for an informational webinar where we’ll walk you through what to expect financially as a new college student. We’ll cover practical topics like budgeting, finding student jobs, understanding housing costs on and off campus, and more, so you can feel confident about managing your money.
How to Get Started with Financial Aid and Scholarships
Wednesday, July 22nd | 10:30-11:30 a.m.
To get started with financial aid and scholarships, create a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID first, then submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application unlocks federal grants, work-study programs, and institutional aid. Finally, supplement with local and national scholarships. Join this session to ensure you have the information you need to maximize your financial aid and scholarship potential.
Understanding the College Application Process
Wednesday, July 22nd | 2:00 p.m.
Join Loyola’s Office of Undergraduate Admission for an introduction to the college application process, including an overview of application types, deadlines, and requirements you might encounter in the college search process. With some insight from the admission counseling side of the process, you'll be ready to take on the rest of your application process as you head into your senior year! This workshop is not specific to Loyola; it is designed to provide helpful information regardless of the schools students are considering.
Ask an Admissions Officer:
How Decisions Really Get Made
Wednesday, July 22nd | 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Ever wonder what happens to your application after you hit “submit”? Join admissions experts from Pomona College, University of Rochester, University of Vermont, and Wesleyan University for a behind-the-scenes look at how applications are reviewed. They’ll touch on what factors matter most and how committees work together to make final decisions. This is your chance to get advice directly from the people who review applications. Bring along your questions and leave with the confidence you need to put your best foot forward.
Inside the Public Ivies: Insight from Admissions Experts
Wednesday, July 22nd | 4:00 p.m.
The “Public Ivies” — a premier tier of top public research universities that includes Georgia Tech, the UC system, UF, UGA, UMich, UNC, UT Austin, and UVA — offer world-class academics, vibrant student life, and massive alumni networks on par with the Ivy League. However, navigating their unique admissions criteria can be challenging, especially as these institutions continue to see surging application volumes from both in-state and out-of-state applicants. Join for an in-depth look at the Public Ivy landscape.
Before you Apply: What Rising Seniors Need to Know Before Application Season Begins
Thursday, July 23rd | 12:00-1:00 p.m.
Get a detailed explanation of everything high school seniors should know in the months leading up to college application season. Led by Josh Saunders with The Answer Class.
Northwestern Admissions 101: Data, Trends, and Tips
Monday, July 27th | 4:00 p.m.
Northwestern isn’t just another prestigious university — it’s a school with a distinct culture, a unique academic system, and a reputation for innovative research programs. Located steps from Lake Michigan, Northwestern attracts students who want world-class educational opportunities as well as creative and interdisciplinary depth. But what does it actually take to get in? Join for a breakdown the latest Northwestern admissions data, what recent cycles reveal about who gets in and why, and how to build an application that will stand out.
ACT: What You Need to Know
Tuesday, July 28th | 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Join Princeton Review virtually to learn what to expect with the ACT. Hosted by The Princeton Review with Montgomery County Public Schools.
De-Stressing the College Essay
Tuesday, July 28th | 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
IN PERSON AT DAMASCUS HIGH SCHOOL
Stress over the college essay usually stems from trying to write a "perfect," resume-style narrative. To de-stress, treat the essay as a casual conversation rather than a thesis. This workshop will help you brainstorm core values through everyday anecdotes, draft without editing, and remember that your genuine, authentic voice is your greatest asset.
Roadmap to College for Grades 9 and 10
Tuesday, July 28th | 9:00-10:00 a.m.
Your freshman and sophomore years are all about building a strong academic foundation and exploring your interests. Your focus should be on earning strong grades in rigorous classes, engaging deeply in a few extracurriculars, and casually researching potential career paths and colleges to prepare for the admissions process. Join this session for expertise from Dr. Pamela Ellis of the Compass College Advisory Group.
We Read it For You Series
The Truth about College: The Essential Guide for Parents and Teens—So You Can Make the Right Choice Together by Ric Edelman
Tuesday, July 28th | 12:00 p.m.
The Truth about College: The Essential Guide for Parents and Teens—So You Can Make the Right Choice Together by Ric Edelman is an unbiased, accurate, and up-to-date guide to making college-related decisions: Should I go to college? Which college should I go to? When should I go? What should I study? How should I pay for college? Should I work while I'm attending? . Part of the "We Read it For You" series with The College Funding Coach.
RIT College and Career Exploration
Tuesday, July 28th and Wednesday, July 29th
Whether you have a specific career in mind or you’re simply curious about different degree programs, College and Careers is the perfect place to start. Interactive workshops give rising high school seniors a taste of the college experience. Explore your interests, interact with college faculty, and get the information you need to take your next steps. Choose from over 60 interactive workshops as you craft your own schedule.
Letters of Recommendation: Building Strong Support for Your College Applications
Tuesday, July 28th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Letters of recommendation are an important part of the college application process and provide admissions teams with insight into a student’s character, achievements, and potential. Join us for a virtual session designed to help students understand how to identify recommenders, request strong letters, and build meaningful relationships with teachers, counselors, and mentors. During this webinar, students will learn how recommendation letters fit into the college application process, how to approach potential recommenders, and what they can do to help their recommenders write thoughtful and impactful letters.
More Than A Game:
Finding Your Fit In College Athletics
Wednesday, July 29th | 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
IN PERSON AT CLARKSBURG HIGH SCHOOL
Finding your ideal college athletic fit means looking beyond the prestige of Division I and evaluating schools based on a holistic framework. True fit requires aligning your academic profile, desired campus culture, financial needs, and athletic talent with the right program and division level.
How to Write a College Essay
Wednesday, July 29th | 2:00 p.m.
Wondering how to write an effective college application essay? Join members of Loyola’s Undergraduate Admission counseling team as they discuss some of the dos and don'ts of college essay writing, as well as examples of some of their favorite submissions! This workshop is not specific to Loyola; it is designed to provide helpful information regardless of the schools students are considering.
Learn How the Marines can Fully Pay for College
Thursday, July 30th | 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
The Marine Corps fully pays for college through two primary programs: Tuition Assistance (TA) for off-duty courses while serving, and the GI Bill for full-time studies. Join this session to learn more.
You Belong Here: A First-Gen Guide to College Applications
Thursday, August 30th | 11:00 a.m.
IN PERSON EVENT AT EDISON HIGH SCHOOL
Being the first in your family to navigate the college application process is a massive milestone. While building a college list, writing essays, and securing financial aid may feel daunting, your unique journey as a first-generation student gives you a remarkable, resilient perspective that colleges actively value. Join this session for all the tools and information you'll need to get yourself set in the right direction.
Highly Selective Universities—What Does it Take?
Thursday, July 30th | 12:00-1:00 p.m.
How do highly selective universities make their admissions decisions? What criteria are used to determine which students are admitted and which are not? Attend this webinar to learn more about this process and whether a school like this is right for you.
ACT Virtual Practice Test
Saturday, August 1st | 9:00 a.m.
Boost your scores with a free ACT practice exam. All students will participate in a realistic testing experience and receive an instant score report.
Essays that Kicked Apps!
Tuesday, August 4th | 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Join experts from The Princeton Review to get tips and advice on how to craft a college application essay that will put your best foot forward in your applications. This free session is part of the summer 2025 free College Admissions Seminar Series. Note that this is the same session that ran on June 24th.
How to Effectively Fill Out the Common App Activities Section
Thursday, July 30th | 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
To effectively fill out the Common App activities section, prioritize quality over quantity, focusing on meaningful and impactful activities rather than simply filling all available spaces. Get expert advice on how to maximize your impact with this part of your college applications.
Aprenda sobre el proceso de solicitud a la universidad
Martes, 4 de agosto | 12:00 - 1:00 p. m.
Acompañe al College & Career Navigator de Quince Orchard High School, quien presentará un cronograma detallado para el proceso de solicitud universitaria. La presentación será en español.
How to Navigate College Recruiting and the NCAA
Tuesday, August 4th | 1:00-2:00 p.m.
Navigating college recruiting and the NCAA requires a proactive approach, starting with understanding the NCAA Eligibility Center and its requirements. Join this session to get the critical info you need.
Virtual Panel: College to Career (Social Sciences)
Tuesday, August 4th | 8:00 p.m.
Join STARS representatives from Amherst College, Brown University, University of Chicago, and University of South Carolina to learn more about how STARS member schools support their students as they pursue a wide variety of careers in the Social Sciences. From archaeology to business to psychology, and everything in between, STARS member schools have programs to set their students up for success in hundreds of careers using their degrees in the Social Sciences. We'll explore the wide variety of resources and opportunities available to you as you think about your future.
Ask Me Anything!
Wednesday, August 5th | 11:00-12:00 p.m.
Do you have questions about college or career paths or financial aid or scholarships? Join our open Zoom and we'll address your questions. In this special session, you'll get the wisdom of College and Career Navigators from Magruder, Whitman, B-CC, Northwood, and Springbrook.
Porque Montgomery College es una buena opción
Miércoles, 5 de agosto | de 11:00 a. m. a 12:00 p. m.
¿Le interesa saber por qué Montgomery College podría ser la opción ideal para usted? Asista a esta sesión informativa con la consejera de admisiones de Montgomery College, Priscyla Aguilar-Villatoro, para resolver todas sus dudas. Este evento presencial se llevará a cabo en Quince Orchard High School, pero está abierto a todos los estudiantes y familias de MCPS.
Navigating the College Search Process
Wednesday, August 5th | 2:00 p.m.
Navigating the college search process can be challenging, especially figuring out those tough questions – should I go to a big school or small? Stay close to home, or travel across the country? No matter where you are in the process, the Loyola University Maryland Office of Undergraduate Admission is here to share some resources and recommendations that will help you in your college search. This workshop is not specific to Loyola; it is designed to provide helpful information regardless of the schools students are considering
Roadmap to College: Grades 11 & 12
Thursday, August 6th | 10:00-11:00 a.m.
According to The Princeton Review, the college roadmap for grades 11 and 12 focuses on maximizing GPA, rigorous coursework (AP/IB), and taking the SAT/ACT by spring of junior year. Key steps include researching schools, starting applications in the summer before senior year, securing letters of recommendation, and showcasing "X factor" extracurricular passions.
College Application Bootcamp
Monday through Thursday, August 10-12 & 14
10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Class of 2027, bring your laptops or Chromebooks and let’s start your college applications! Come get essay support and financial aid information, too. We'll create a Going Merry account for scholarships, and create your Common App account and link it to Naviance. NO Registration requested (because I'll be bringing snacks and need to know how much to bring each day) but you're also welcome to just show up!
Summer Post-Graduation College & Career Fair
Tuesday, August 11th | 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.
Immediately following summer graduation rehearsal;
in person at Paint Branch High School
Meet representatives from colleges and universities, community colleges, trade and technical schools, employers who are hiring now, apprenticeship programs, military branches, workforce development organizations, and community resources. Bring your resume and a notebook or device to make notes, prepare questions about careers, college, and training programs. Maintain a positive attitude and professional mindset.
NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED
SAT/ACT Prep Session
Tuesday, August 11th | 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
This session will cover the basics of what students need to do to be prepared for the SAT or ACT. This should not be a replacement for studying or for a lengthier prep course.
Common App Activities Section
Tuesday, August 11th | 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
Join the College & Career Navigator from Whitman High School The Common App as she explains how the Common App activities section is an opportunity to demonstrate to the Common App colleges your talents, skills, and specific examples of extracurricular activities you’ve participated in over the last few years. Find out how you can make yourself really shine.
Creating a Common App Account: Getting Started with Your College Applications
Tuesday, August 11th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
The college application process can feel overwhelming, but getting started with the right tools and resources can make the journey easier. Join us for a virtual session focused on creating and navigating your Common Application account, one of the most widely used platforms for applying to colleges. During this webinar, students will learn how to set up their account, understand the different sections of the application, and begin organizing the information they will need throughout the college application process. Participants will gain helpful tips for staying organized, avoiding common mistakes, and preparing for a successful application experience.
How to Earn the Grades That Get You Into College
Wednesday, August 12th | 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Colleges consider a student's GPA, which reflects their academic performance, a crucial factor in the admissions process. Join experts from The Princeton Review to learn more in this free session.
College Essay Writing Workshop
Wednesday, August 12th | 12:00-1:00 p.m.
The college essay is the only place in an application where an admissions officer can hear your voice, so join this interactive presentation to learn about the do’s and don’t about writing your college essay! We will cover why college essays matter, picking a topic, finding your voice, and we will review sample college essays together as a group.
Understanding the College Application Process
Wednesday, August 12th | 2:00 p.m.
Join Loyola’s Office of Undergraduate Admission for an introduction to the college application process, including an overview of application types, deadlines, and requirements you might encounter in the college search process. With some insight from the admission counseling side of the process, you'll be ready to take on the rest of your application process as you head into your senior year! This workshop is not specific to Loyola; it is designed to provide helpful information regardless of the schools students are considering.
NWHE Summer Session #3:
Choosing Your Decision Plan
Wednesday, August 12th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision—what do these options actually mean? We’ll walk through each plan and help you think through what makes sense for your goals and share information about best practices to prepare for college and how to make the most of your resources ahead of applying to college.
Athletic Recruitment: Navigating the Path to College Athletics
Wednesday, August 12th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Interested in competing in college athletics? Whether you're just beginning the recruitment process or actively communicating with college coaches, this webinar will provide valuable insight into what it takes to become a successful student-athlete at the next level. Join for a breakdown of the college athletic recruitment process, what coaches are looking for, and practical strategies to help student-athletes stand out. Learn how to take ownership of your recruitment journey while balancing academic success and athletic achievement.
Dinero para Estudiar
Jueves, 13 de agosto | 12:00 - 1:00 p. m.
EN PERSONA EN LA NORTHWEST HIGH SCHOOL
Acompañe a Karlyvette Acevedo, de la Oficina de Ayuda Financiera de Montgomery College, en un programa informativo sobre cómo maximizar su ayuda financiera para la universidad. La presentación será en español. Este evento es presencial en la Quince Orchard High School, pero está abierto a todos los estudiantes y familias de MCPS.
Balancing College and Retirement
Friday, August 14th | 10:30 a.m. until 11:15 p.m.
College Funding Fridays is a free summer webinar series designed to help parents tackle the complex challenges of saving and paying for college—without sacrificing their retirement goals. Hosted by experienced College Funding Coach® planners, each of these quick sessions will focus on ONE actionable topic, followed by an open Q&A where parents can get real-time guidance from experts.
PSAT Virtual Practice Test
Saturday, August 15th | 9:00 a.m.
Boost your scores with a free PSAT practice exam. All students will participate in a realistic testing experience and receive an instant score report.
PSAT...Now What?
Tuesday, August 18th | 10:00-11:00 a.m.
In this free webinar, admissions experts teach you how a good PSAT score can help your child win a National Merit Scholarship and explore what the next steps are—including whether your child is on track for the award. Most importantly, the PSAT is a great indicator of SAT and ACT readiness. Based on different score ranges and target schools, this webinar will help you build a test-prep plan for your child.
In-State Tuition for Out-of-State Students—Legal Loopholes and Strategies
Thursday, August 20th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Is your child dreaming of attending an out-of-state college, but the cost seems insane? The biggest issue in college planning is safeguarding your family’s financial future while supporting your child’s aspirations. This is incredibly challenging when your child is interested in attending an out-of-state school. This session will share essential knowledge and strategies for making out-of-state college more affordable.
We Read it For You Series
Paying for College—Everything You Need to Maximize Financial Aid and Afford College by Kalman Chany
Tuesday, August 25th | 12:00 p.m.
Paying for College—Everything You Need to Maximize Financial Aid and Afford College by Kalman Chany is a comprehensive guide providing line-by-line instructions for completing FAFSA forms and strategies to maximize financial aid while minimizing college costs. Part of the "We Read it For You" series with The College Funding Coach.
Little-Known Secrets of Paying for College
Thursday, September 17th | 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Learn the rules of the game when it comes to managing college costs. You can expect to learn how to fund your child’s education while protecting your retirement, college funding strategies for parents with students who DO and DO NOT qualify for financial aid, the 13 most popular college funding financial vehicles explained and debunked, updates on the most recent changes in Congress and what they actually mean to your family, proven strategies to make out-of-state or private colleges more affordable, ways to maximize and increase financial aid eligibility, and more.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON
FAFSA 2026–What You Need to Know Before Filing
Thursday, September 17th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
This session will provide an overview of FAFSA changes and what you'll need to file on time.
Demystifying the CSS Profile–What High-Cost Schools Really Ask
Thursday, October 15th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
This session will go over what the CSS Profile is, which schools require it, and what you need to submit it.
How to Find Scholarships That Your Child Can Actually Win
Thursday, November 15, 2026 | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Searching for scholarships can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. Get the resources you need to be efficient and proactive to make sure you have the money you need to afford your college journey!
Paying for College Without Sacrificing Retirement
Thursday, December 17, 2026 | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Topics will include whether it's worthwhile to complete financial aid forms, cost reduction tactics and strategies, using tax-efficient money and versatile financial vehicles, and more.
ASVAB Test at Springbrook High School
Thursday, February 25, 2027
10:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.
IN PERSON AT SPRINGBROOK HIGH SCHOOL, 201 VALLEY BROOK DRIVE, SILVER SPRING 20904
The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is administered free to interested tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grade students with parental consent. The ASVAB is an excellent career exploration tool. It can help identify student interests and aptitude in the following areas: verbal, math, science and technical skills. When scores are interpreted, students will learn how their interests and skills relate to the demands of more than 400 occupations, helping them to identify suitable career options. ASVAB results are released only to students and not to the armed services. If students wish to use their results as part of an enlistment conversation with military recruiters, they can provide their scores to the recruiter. Taking the ASVAB in no way involves a commitment to the military.
ASVAB Test at Springbrook High School
Monday, April 8, 2027
10:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.
IN PERSON AT SPRINGBROOK HIGH SCHOOL, 201 VALLEY BROOK DRIVE, SILVER SPRING 20904
The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is administered free to interested tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grade students with parental consent. The ASVAB is an excellent career exploration tool. It can help identify student interests and aptitude in the following areas: verbal, math, science and technical skills. When scores are interpreted, students will learn how their interests and skills relate to the demands of more than 400 occupations, helping them to identify suitable career options. ASVAB results are released only to students and not to the armed services. If students wish to use their results as part of an enlistment conversation with military recruiters, they can provide their scores to the recruiter. Taking the ASVAB in no way involves a commitment to the military.
PERMISSION SLIP COMING SOON
Recordings to past events are made available whenever possible. Please browse the past events below.