01
Active Discovery
A cohort-based search model that shifts the focus from "getting in" to "finding fit" through mutual support, self-reflection, and self-advocacy.
A four-year
developmental roadmap.
From 9th grade through matriculation, every Prep Up student moves through a structured, cohort-based program.
Prep Up offers a high-touch, cohort-based college advisory program designed to close any "guidance gap." By adapting the counseling models of top independent schools for a community-based setting, we provide a structured four-year program that meets students' needs and transforms their potential into collegiate success.
Active Discovery ✦
Narrative Cohesion ✦
Process Driven ✦
Cohort-Based ✦
Developmental ✦
Active Discovery ✦
Narrative Cohesion ✦
Process Driven ✦
Cohort-Based ✦
Developmental ✦
The three-pillar
framework.
Every student moves through the same three-pillar framework, tailored to their individual story and goals.
02
Narrative Cohesion
Synthesizing transcripts, testing, and extracurriculars into one clear, compelling, and authentic story about each student.
03
Process Driven
Utilizing essential criteria to drive each student's search process from 9th grade through senior year.
Cohort sessions: research, essays, financial aid — worked through together.
Four years.
One developmental arc.
Each year builds on the last, moving students from self-awareness to self-advocacy to successful matriculation.
9 th
The Focus: Transition & Resilience
Emphasis
Helping students develop the self-awareness and self-management skills that will support them throughout high school and in the college process.
Strategic Outcome
Establishing "College Literacy" from day one. We ensure students understand how early academic choices, self-awareness, and community engagement become the foundation of their future opportunities.
Seasonal Rhythm
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Fall
High School Integration & GPA Literacy. Habit Building.
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Winter / Spring
Cohort Team Building, Course Planning, Summer Engagement & Civic Impact.
10 th
The Exploration: Expanding the Personal Horizon
Focus
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), Continued Habit Building
Emphasis
Character, Engagement, and Purpose. Moving beyond 9th grade means learning to manage stress, navigate relationships with others, and refine academic skills.
Strategic Outcome
Students continue to develop their self-awareness by identifying unique strengths and aligning their natural talents with academic and extracurricular opportunities.
Seasonal Rhythm
-
Fall
Defining Non-Negotiables and Developing a Personal Platform ("This I Believe").
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Winter
Standardized Testing, Diagnostics & First College Exposure.
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Spring
Cohort Mentorship Program & College Major Research, Summer Planning.
11 th
The Search: Defining the Parameters & Personal Narrative
Focus
List Building and Research
Emphasis
Balancing cohort programming with individual counseling.
Strategic Outcome
Defining the "Right Fit." This is the core of our model. We move students from broad cohort programming into the more personalized work of the search process, ensuring a balanced list of college options informed by a thorough financial-aid review for the entire family.
Seasonal Rhythm
-
Fall
College Research & Selection Strategy. Standardized Testing Plan.
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Winter
Cohort Campus Visits & Access to College Admission and Financial Aid Officers. Understanding "Demonstrated Interest" and Impacted Majors.
-
Spring
Personal Essay Development & Case Study Workshop.
12 th
The Launch: Application Mechanics & Matriculation
Focus
Advocacy & Persistence
Emphasis
Application Requirements and Deadlines.
Strategic Outcome
Successful Matriculation. We provide the technical expertise to navigate complex application and financial aid cycles. Our deadline-driven counseling ensures students are equipped to submit applications successfully and to carefully assess their options once the process is complete.
Seasonal Rhythm
-
Fall
Application Work & Early Deadline Management.
-
Winter
Final Deadline Submissions, Letters of Continued Interest.
-
Spring
Financial Award Analysis (Bottom Line Cost) & Enrollment Logistics.
Workshops & services.
Detailed program materials. Workshop curricula and service descriptions for students, counselors, and partners.
