An Update from College Counseling

by Robert Kostrzeski (“Mr. K.”), WSP Director of College Counseling

Mr. K, Bridget Kenevan (Wellness Counseling, far right) and Mia Hammerschmidt (Student Support) collaborate to support students with care, consistency, and intention year-round.

As the semester comes to a close, I would like to share a brief snapshot of the work of our College Counseling program this fall, along with some early outcomes for the Class of 2026. While the majority of college decisions will be released in March and April, there is already meaningful progress worth acknowledging, and much to be proud of. 

The college process at WSP is introspective and highly individualized. It asks students to reflect on who they are, what matters to them, and where they hope to grow next. This fall, our seniors spent countless hours researching colleges and universities that feel like the right “fit,” writing and revising essays, visiting campuses, and imagining themselves in new academic homes. Others are thoughtfully exploring gap years or alternative post-WSP paths; choices that reflect maturity, self-knowledge, and courage. Each of these pathways is valid and supported.

We are pleased to share early results from the Early Decision and some Early Action rounds. This fall, five students applied Early Decision, with three students accepted and two deferred to the regular admissions pool. Three members of the Class of 2026 have already been admitted to and will attend their first-choice institutions: Boston University, Loyola Marymount University, and Reed College. Another student was accepted to their top-choice Early Action school: Pratt Institute.

From Bioengineering to Filmmaking to Design and even the undecided, our seniors’ interests reflect the breadth of curiosity and creativity we see every day on campus. If you see a senior who applied this year, please join us in extending your warm congratulations! Every application represents real effort, vulnerability, and growth. 

In total, students submitted over 100 early applications across Early Decision, Early Action, Priority, and Restrictive Early Action plans. (NACAC glossary of terms). Many additional results will be released in late January and early February, with final enrollment decisions due by  May 1.

Throughout the application process, our work centers on helping students and families hold perspective—encouraging balance, reflection, and connection with family and community alongside the practical demands of applications. While college admissions can at times feel transactional, we work intentionally to keep the process grounded in each student’s values, interests, and sense of purpose. Ultimately, it is about finding a next step that truly resonates with each student. 

As part of this effort, I shared a reflective letter with seniors to consider during winter break, inviting them to slow down and extend compassion towards themselves during what can be an intense season. We also continue to support students who opt to take a gap year, which has become more popular in recent years. We are committed to working with these students after graduation to identify meaningful pathways that align with their goals.

Looking ahead, on Saturday, January 17, we will host “College Saturday: The Sequel” for Grade 11 students. This workshop will focus on identifying authentic college fit, reviewing academic strengths, and thoughtfully shaping the research and essay process for the year ahead.

My October visit to campus included a full schedule of college counseling programming across grade levels. I led workshops for Grades 9–12, as well as sessions for parents, with particular focus on supporting the Class of 2026 as they completed applications. One-on-one meetings with seniors provided valuable dedicated time for organization, goal-setting, and individual strategy.

During that visit, we also held an all-day senior workshop with representatives from McGill University (Canada), Eckerd (Florida) and Oberlin College (Ohio). The day included transcript reviews, UC/CSU guidance, essay drafting and editing, updates within MaiaLearning, application strategy, and finalizing balanced college lists aligned with each student’s goals and values. Students considering a gap year began researching programs, building  CVs, and drafting application materials for the following cycle.

In addition, I hosted parent coffees for Grades 9/10 and Grade 11, both of which were well attended and created space for thoughtful questions and shared conversation.

As part of our holistic and developmental approach, I also facilitated Wellness classes during the visit. Grade 9 students explored the theme of small habits and long-term growth. Grade 10 students completed the VIA strengths inventory along with two career assessments. Grade 11 focused on engagement, prioritization, and organization, and the importance of self-care and balance during a demanding year.

I look forward to sharing more updates in the new year and returning to campus in March to continue Wellness classes and workshops across grade levels. At that time, I will also host our first Middle School parent workshop, offering an overview of the College Counseling program and how it unfolds over time. We will also offer the PSAT 10 for Grade 10 students and the in-school SAT for Grade 11 students. More details will be shared as the dates approach.

Thank you for your continued partnership, trust, and care for our students. Supporting them through this important transition is a shared effort, and I am grateful to walk alongside them in this work. 

Meet Robert Kostrzeski, WSP Director of College Counseling

Robert Kostrzeski was born in Chicago and has lived in six U.S. states and eight different countries, embracing the life of a Third Culture Adult. He holds a B.A. in French and Spanish and an M.A. in Pedagogy and Francophone Literature. With over 25 years of experience as a University Advisor and College Counselor in U.S. independent and international schools, Robert is excited to bring his expertise to Waldorf School of the Peninsula. He notes that WSP is his first Waldorf educational experience, and he couldn’t ask for better mentors than his dedicated colleagues here. In his free time, Robert enjoys exploring the world of oxymorons, like “unbiased opinions” and “minor miracles,” as well as indulging in life’s simple pleasures: dark chocolate (72% or more), french fries with mayonnaise, and spicy food. He’s an avid international traveler and loves spending quality time with his son.