College and career planning is woven into all four years of the NDCL student experience through monthly Counseling Seminars based on the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) standards.

Our counselors help students explore their strengths, set goals, build leadership skills, and prepare for life after high school—whether that’s college, a career, or both. 

 

College Planning Overview

Starting in 9th grade, students use Scoir, a comprehensive college and career planning platform, to:

  • Build resumes
  • Complete interest inventories
  • Set academic and personal goals
  • Explore summer enrichment opportunities

By junior year, students have a well-developed portfolio in Scoir, including:

  • A full resume
  • Saved career assessments
  • A list of potential colleges (“Colleges I Like”)

This thoughtful preparation makes the senior year college application process efficient, personalized, and stress-reduced. 

Individual College Conferences

Students meet one-on-one with their counselor in both junior and senior year. These individualized conferences—open to parents as well—cover:

  • College search and selection
  • Application timelines
  • Standardized testing plans
  • Financial aid and scholarships
  • College majors and career alignment

College Events for Students & Families

  • College Kickoff Night & Financial Aid Workshop (Seniors)
  • College Planning Workshop (Juniors)
  • Making the Most of High School (Sophomores)
  • College Credit Plus Info Night (All grades)

NDCL also hosts college representatives throughout the year, offering students first-hand exposure to a wide range of post-secondary options.

$20m

College scholarship earned by the class of 2025

97%

of NDCL graduates attend college

College Planning Timeline

Click below to stay on track for each year of high school:

  • Freshman
  • Sophomore
  • Junior
  • Senior 

Helpful Links & Resources:

College Applications

Standardized Testing

Recommendation Letters

  • Students must ask teachers in person
  • Submit requests via Scoir 

For College-Bound Athletes

Virtual College Tours

Financial Aid

 

Career Counseling

NDCL counselors help students connect their interests and strengths to potential careers and college majors. In sophomore year, students complete career interest inventories in Scoir, which are used as conversation tools in 1:1 counseling meetings. 

Career Resources