Preparing Students for What’s Next: College Counseling in a Changing World

By Natalie Bitton, Director of College Counseling

ENJOY MORE OF THE BLOG

 

 

---

For the past 18 years at the Lycée, it has been both a privilege and an honor to create and implement a thriving college counseling program that nurtures the innate potential of each of the 800+ students I have served. Our students come from diverse backgrounds and currently graduate with the opportunity to earn two diplomas: the French Baccalaureate and the U.S. high school diploma*. This unique combination opens doors to higher educational choices from around the world.

Building a deep network of relationships with higher ed institutions globally has greatly enriched my professional development, providing invaluable resources and access for students to explore their educational options without borders or limits.

I am proud to have served as the President of the International Association of College Admissions Counselors from 2020 to 2023, where I supported and led the organization’s mission alongside our 3,500 members.

Working within the Lycee’s leadership team has given me a unique perspective and the opportunity to bring innovative projects to life. Some notable initiatives include Girls in Tech, the Student Diversity Leadership Conference, the Service Learning Program, and many more.

Through these experiences, I have seen firsthand how leadership and expertise can foster a supportive environment where students have thrived academically and personally.

 

 

Flagship Lycee College Counseling Program

At the Lycée, we’re thrilled to offer a college counseling program that truly supports each and every one of our students. Our focus is on nurturing the whole person—starting with wellness, personal growth, and meaningful rituals, and then helping students navigate their choices after high school. 

We call this approach "College Counseling from the Inside Out."

Alongside our traditional counseling services, we invite students to join our flagship enrichment programs. These experiences are designed to help them grow personally while also encouraging them to engage with their communities. Whether it’s through internships, leadership training, service learning, or research projects, we believe these opportunities help shape their identities and foster global citizenship.

We also understand that college counseling is a family affair. From Grade 9 onward, we prioritize getting to know both students and their parents. Our four-year program is all about forming supportive relationships with families as we work together to guide students on their journey to creating their own unique paths.

The success of our college admissions stems directly from these meaningful connections we build. By understanding our students and their families, we’re better equipped to provide the guidance and support they need to thrive.

 

The Evolution of the Lycee College Counseling Program

In the increasingly complex world of worldwide college admissions, the role of a robust college counseling program has never been more crucial. At the Lycee, our college counseling program has evolved to meet the needs of a diverse student body, preparing them for competitive admissions processes worldwide while fostering a sense of confidence and empowerment. In this essay I explore current trends in college admissions, the impact of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, the rising use of artificial intelligence in admissions, and the evolution of our own counseling program.

Trends in College Admissions

The college admissions landscape is shifting rapidly. Worldwide, we are seeing an increased emphasis on holistic admissions processes, which take into account not just academic achievements but also personal qualities, extracurricular involvement, and unique experiences. As colleges and universities strive to build diverse and dynamic student bodies, applicants are increasingly evaluated on their potential contributions to campus life.

Additionally, test-optional policies have become a noteworthy trend. Many institutions now allow students to apply without standardized test scores, recognizing that these scores do not always represent a student's full potential. This change has encouraged a broader array of our students to engage with the college application process, allowing them to showcase their strengths in other areas, such as languages, the arts, research, and innovation.

Increasingly, our students are choosing paths and colleges that make sense for them from an academic and cultural fit viewpoint.  Affordability continues to be a factor of importance, in particular in the United States, where the cost of attendance for certain schools can add up to almost $100,000 per year.

The Lycee Signature Diploma - The French Baccalaureate

For over 55 years, the Lycée has proudly offered the French Baccalaureate diploma, which is a hallmark of academic excellence. Our students benefit from a rich curriculum that emphasizes not only rigorous academic standards but also the opportunity to graduate with proficiency in at least three languages. This multilingual education prepares them for a globalized world.

The French Baccalaureate is widely recognized by universities around the world, often granting students up to one year of credit for their achievements. This recognition underscores the rigor and depth of our curriculum, affirming that our students are well-prepared for higher education. 

 

 

The International Baccalaureate and College Admissions

The addition of the International Track and its International Baccalaureate (IB) program* at the Lycee will play a significant role in shaping our students' college admissions journeys. The IB curriculum is rigorous and globally recognized, providing students with a well-rounded education that emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and research skills. Colleges often view the IB Diploma as an indicator of a student's ability to handle challenging coursework, making IB students competitive candidates. Moreover, the Extended Essay component of the IB program allows students to engage in independent research, fostering analytical skills that are highly valued in higher education.

The program also prepares students for the rigor of college through its focus on time management, self-discipline, and effective communication. We will work closely with International Track students to help them leverage their unique coursework and experiences in their college applications.

The Use of AI in College Admissions

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in college admissions has begun to emerge. Some institutions are exploring AI-driven tools to analyze applications more efficiently, assessing patterns and predicting student success rates based on various data points. While AI can potentially streamline the admissions process, it also raises ethical questions about bias and the implications for holistic review practices.

At the Lycée, we recognize the importance of embracing technology while maintaining a human touch in the counseling process. We strive to educate our students about the role of AI in admissions, emphasizing the value of authenticity in their applications. Helping students understand how to present their stories genuinely and vividly remains more critical than ever.

 

 

Evolution of the Lycee College Counseling Program

Our college counseling program has adapted in response to these trends above. Initially designed to guide students through the application process, in the last 20 years, the program has evolved into a comprehensive support system that encompasses personal development, academic advising, and college planning.

We have focused on creating a more individualized approach, recognizing that each student has unique strengths and aspirations. We take the time to know each student personally, enabling them to provide tailored guidance that aligns with students’ goals and values. Workshops have been incorporated to address various aspects of the application process, from writing compelling personal statements to preparing for interviews.

Our program also places great emphasis on fostering a growth mindset. We encourage students to view challenges as opportunities for development, guiding them on how to navigate setbacks gracefully while building resilience. Furthermore, we have established partnerships with universities and organizations that enhance our program, offering students access to workshops, mentorship, and resources that bolster their college readiness. As we evolve, we remain committed to inclusive practices that consider the diverse cultural backgrounds of our students, emphasizing the importance of narrative and identity in the application process.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of college admissions requires adaptability, insight, and a supportive framework. At the Lycee, our college counseling program has grown to meet the changing landscape, helping students harness the benefits of the International Baccalaureate, understand current trends, and embrace the role of technology in the process. By prioritizing individuality and resilience, we empower our students to face the admissions journey with confidence and clarity, preparing them for successful futures in higher education.

 

*Lycée is a Candidate School for the IB programs, pursuing authorization as an IB World School. International Track students are planned to graduate with a dual diploma (Bilingual IB diploma + US High School diploma) starting in June 2028.

---

EXPLORE SOME MORE

French Track  |  International Track |  College Acceptances [2024]