Whatever our students dream, we help make it happen. Their potential as leaders, both on an off campus, is infinite. And they know they can reach out any day of the week to their advisors, tutors, teachers, coaches, and especially their college counselors. Our college counseling office opens minds and doors to the future through a holistic process of reflection. Advice from alumni, internships, and site visits consistently reinforce college and career possibilities.
At New Hampton, the College Counseling office interacts with students at every grade level in varying capacities. As students progress throughout their time at New Hampton, their interactions with the college counseling office increase, preparing them to take on the college decision process with confidence. With on and off-campus college fairs to attend, one on one meetings with counselors, opportunities to workshop essays, and schedule test prep our students have all the tools they need to make a college decision that is right for them.
About Magdalena
This summer, we were thrilled to welcome Magdalena Farnsworth as our new Director of College Counseling. Maggie steps into this position after past director, Jennifer Berry, retired this spring having spent 36 years at New Hampton. During a conversation with Magdalena, we learned more about her background, what drew her to New Hampton, and the areas that she hopes to build upon to ensure that each New Hampton student is receiving the best college counseling experience.
Maggie arrives from Phillips Andover Academy, having spent the past five years as their Associate Director of College Counseling. Prior to her work in College Counseling, Maggie worked for ten years in Wellesley College’s Admission Office. Maggie received her undergraduate degree from Vassar College and has a Masters in Higher Education Administration from Harvard University. Additionally, Maggie was recently elected as an Assembly Delegate for the New England Association of College Admission Counseling (NEACAC), giving her the opportunity to represent northeast boarding schools within the Association of College Admissions Counseling.
Get to know our College Counseling Director
Maggie sat down to chat about what drew her to New Hampton, her hopes for the office, and to share some advice for both students and parents starting the college process.
Why did you choose to come to New Hampton?
When I came to interview, I was instantly blown away by how close everyone was. I’ve only been here a couple of weeks, but I can tell that New Hampton School emphasizes the community rather than competition.
What makes you excited to work with students at New Hampton?
I love the range of students here at New Hampton. New Hampton has such a wide variety of learners with various interests, and I’m just really excited to have the opportunity to work with all of them.
What are your initial goals for the College Counseling Office this year?
This office is already so great, but I do want to ensure that we are serving our students to the best of our ability. I am hoping to review our processes this year to see if there are any areas that can be improved upon and to ensure that our services are standardized. I’m also a very data-driven person – I just love data! I’d like to figure out ways to utilize data from our office to ensure that our families are making the best possible decisions when it comes to picking a college.
What advice do you have for parents going through the college process?
Take a deep breath, trust the process, and enjoy this time with your child. It’s easy to get caught in the whirlwind of anxiety that comes with college visits, test prep, deadlines, and getting your students to stay on top of their college essays. I have seen so many students and parents barely speaking to each other because they are completely fixated on the college process. Remember that these are the last years that you get to spend with them before they head off into adulthood; so take a step back and enjoy the little moments together. Students won’t remember the details of each college they visited years later, but they will remember the fun memories of the road trip that you took to get there.
What advice do you have for students?
Keep an open mind! Too often, students are focused on one or two “dream” colleges, but there are so many different colleges and universities out there that you don’t even know exist. Step outside of your comfort zone and be willing to consider schools that you have never heard of, as they could be an even better fit for you.
