As many colleges move to make standardized testing optional, we have been given the opportunity toredesign our summer curriculum for rising 11th grades which previously focused on test preparation.* As a staff, we analyzed what was missing from our programming and after speaking with our recent college graduates, realized it was time to bring back the pivotal experience of backpacking.  In addition to the stress relieving benefits of being in nature, students forge deeper relationships with each other as they work toward a shared goal. Therefore, we are thrilled to announce a new partnership with Lasting Adventures, an incredible organization who will lead our 11th graders on a backpacking trip through Yosemite National Park this summer. 

After a successful campus visit to Pomona College for our DTS high school students and their families, we warmly welcomed admissions representatives from Smith College, Skidmore College and Dickinson College to our classroom.  These visits not only expand younger students’ awareness about college but they also give them the opportunity to practice their interpersonal communication skills with professionals outside of our organization.  

Stephanie, our College Access and Success Counselor, knows first hand how challenging it can be to attend a predominately white college, far from home, as a first generation college student of color.  It is for this reason she makes the time to visit our East Coast college students. These in person check-ins are deeply meaningful to students.  Ingrid, a first year at Franklin and Marshall College notes, “Having Stephanie visit was the highlight of my week, it lifted my mood!  I was proud and excited to show her my new home away from home and to introduce her to all…

DTS is proud to be a new member of the Western Association for College Admission Counseling (WACAC). The organization supports and advances the work of college counselors from California and Nevada as they help all students realize their full potential. As members, welook forward to the opportunity to learn from other organizations, to expand our network and to participate in relevant and timely professional development programming. 

A recent workshop hosted by Southern California College Access Network discussed the most pressing needs facing students today: the lack of mental health services and the lack of advisor support.  At DTS we are poised to fully address both needs for our students; they are the cornerstones of our programmatic model. Carmen, our full time Wellness Counselor, provides one-on-one counseling, small group counseling, stress management activities and topical workshops. For students needing greater support, Carmen connects the family directly with therapists to ensure the students receive comprehensive care.  DTS covers the cost of these sessions if they are not covered by insurance.  Additionally, every student meets weekly with his/her Advisor.  Advisor check-ins prioritize whole…

As noted in the photo above, the young women of DTS enjoyed meeting with Lia, a first generation college graduate and Smith admissions representative who visited two weeks ago. This month, we look forward to hosting admissions representatives from both Skidmore College and Dickinson College.  This Saturday we are thrilled to take our high school students and their families to Pomona College for our first in person campus visit since the onset of the pandemic. The opportunity to explore the physical campus provides students and parents with information that goes far beyond websites and virtual sessions.  Being on campus allows them to fully, albeit briefly, inhabit the college culture and it makes…