It’s that time of the year: college talks. Sixth formers are getting busy with college applications, and 5th formers are starting to learn more about the process. College visits are unarguably an essential step in choosing the best match. However, the busy schedule and many other priorities make it difficult for Hill students, especially 5th formers, to visit schools.

The College Advising and the Dean’s offices do not permit 5th formers to miss classes for college visits.

“[The Dean’s office] feel that our breaks, holidays, and summer vacations are generous,” Associate Dean of Students Heidi Eccleston said. “And that time students and families should be utilizing to visit colleges so class time and co-curricular actives are not compromised.”

Some students have found it difficult to find a suitable schedule for both themselves and parents, concerning the transportation from their hometowns to the desired locations.

“I usually plan my college visits over long weekends and breaks, and my parents will also come during that time,” Joyce Pu ’19 said. “I think the only problem would be either [international students’] parents have to make time to visit schools with them, or they would have to find host families to go with.”

Wanting to get ahead of the college process, many 5th formers don’t want to delay their visits until the fall of their 6th form year.

“If our parents are busy all year round, I think the school should be more generous about college visits for 5th formers during the school year,” Amanda Grippo ’19 said. “It would be too late if I wait until my 6th form year to do so.”

Hill’s College Advising Office offers college tours and provides information for prospective students and parents who are interested. The school creates opportunities for students to learn more about colleges through different events.

Even though it is difficult to get permission from the Dean’s Office, those who want to start the process should use school holidays effectively to map out college plans with their parents and college counselors. Good communication with the deans would be sufficient to receive approvals for special situations.