College Advising at Deerfield Academy

The mission of the College Advising office is to support and advise students as they transition to their lives beyond the Academy. We facilitate a student-centered process that prioritizes self-awareness and the exploration of a wide range of opportunities. Our goal is to help students craft authentic applications that celebrate their academic achievements and personal talents, all while remaining anchored in Deerfield’s core values: respect, integrity, and care for others.

The Philosophy of Match We encourage students to focus on finding the “right college match.” This means identifying institutions where they will be both intellectually challenged and socially engaged—schools that will inspire them as learners, thinkers, and active citizens.

A Journey of Self-Discovery The application process is an invitation to ponder who you are and who you want to become. In essence, the college search is an extended research project that asks students to look inward for many of the answers. As students learn to assess their goals, set priorities, and make significant decisions, they develop vital organization, communication, and research skills. We believe that how a student navigates this journey is just as impactful as the eventual destination.

Our Commitment to Students and Families The Deerfield College Advising staff offers a breadth of experience and a level of individualized attention that is a hallmark of the Academy. We serve as professional, realistic, and well-informed guides through a complex landscape. To ensure a personalized experience, our staff:

• Develops balanced college lists tailored to each student’s academic profile and personal preferences.
• Advocates for every Deerfield student by maintaining authentic, long-standing relationships with college admissions officers.
• Provides data-driven insights to estimate admission probabilities using historical Naviance data and current enrollment trends.
• Composes honest, impactful recommendations that emphasize a student’s unique strengths and trajectory of growth.
• Supports the creative process by providing feedback on essays and assisting with the preparation of all application components.
• Manages the timely delivery of credentials, including transcripts and school reports, based on the student’s Naviance record.

Communication Standards The student’s Deerfield email address is the official channel for all college-related correspondence. Students are expected to check this account daily to ensure they receive critical updates and deadlines. We also encourage students to use their school email to keep their advisors informed of campus visits, evolving college preferences, and essay progress.