Seniors and Families,

As we move into October, I continue to learn firsthand just how busy and exciting this time of year can be for seniors and their families. Between college applications, essays, and planning for what comes next, there is a lot to juggle. At Annandale, we are committed to supporting every student through the college planning process. Whether you are still exploring options, narrowing your list, or starting to think about financial aid, there are several important events this month designed to help you along the way.

On Wednesday, October 15, we will host Paying for College Night from 6:00–8:00pm. This event is designed specifically for seniors and their families and will provide a comprehensive overview of the financial aid process — from how to apply to understanding the types of aid available and key deadlines to keep in mind. Whether you are just beginning or already knee-deep in paperwork, this is a valuable opportunity to get clear, accurate information and personalized guidance. For more details, please contact Ms. Viri Acosta, College and Career Specialist.

This Sunday, October 19, FCPS will host their College Fair at George Mason University’s EagleBank Arena from 4:00–6:00 p.m. This annual event brings together representatives from approximately 200 colleges and universities from across the country — including two-year and four-year schools as well as U.S. Service Academies. It is a great chance to explore options, meet directly with admissions representatives, and get your questions answered in one place.

Then, on Tuesday, October 21, FCPS will host its Virtual Postsecondary Night. Sessions are at 5, 6, and 7 pm. This online event offers a series of workshops designed to support students and families as they plan for life after high school. The sessions will cover everything from the college application process and financial aid to community college, vocational programs, and military options.

Both the College Fair and Virtual Postsecondary Night are fantastic opportunities to help students and families prepare for the next chapter of their educational journey. You can learn more about both events here.

As always, please reach out if you have any questions or need additional support. Our team is here to ensure every student has the information, guidance, and confidence they need to take the next step toward their future.

Shawn DeRose, Principal

Upcoming College & Career Events

Ongoing - Colleges Visits in College & Career Center: Our College & Career Center hosts visits from representatives for colleges and universities throughout the country. Find out which schools are visiting here.  Juniors and Seniors will have the opportunity to hear from college admissions representatives to learn what makes their institution unique, admission requirements, financial aid, and more. Students must log into Naviance to register. Click on "Colleges" at the top of the page and then click on "college visits." Click "register now" for the visits you would like to attend. Once a student has signed up, they should receive a confirmation email. Passes will be delivered to their first class (R1/W2) the morning of the scheduled visit. If you do not have a first class you may pick up your pass from the Career Center (Room 103). Students who are not registered in Naviance for a college visit will be denied entry.

October 15 - Paying for College Night, 6-8pm: Join us for an information session on Wednesday, October 15 at Annandale High School, designed specifically for seniors and their families. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the financial aid process to help you navigate the steps with confidence. Whether you're just getting started or have questions about the process, this session is a valuable opportunity to get the guidance and support you need. For more information, please contact Ms. Viri Acosta, College and Career Specialist.

October 19 - FCPS College Fair, 4-6pm: The annual FCPS College Fair is scheduled for Sunday, October 19, and will take place at George Mason University’s EagleBank Arena from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. This highly anticipated event brings together representatives from approximately 200 colleges and universities from across the country. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with a wide variety of institutions, including two-year and four-year colleges, public and private universities, and U.S. Service Academies. More information can be found here.

October 20-24 - Virginia College Application Week (VCAW): During the week of October 20–24, students will have an opportunity to take advantage of College Application Week. Throughout this week, students can receive college application fee waivers for most Virginia colleges and universities, helping to reduce the financial burden of applying to multiple schools. In addition to the fee waivers, support will be available in the Career Center during all lunch periods, where counselors will be on hand to answer questions, review application materials, and guide students through the submission process. Please remember that fee waivers are only valid if your application is submitted during this designated week.

October 21 - FCPS Virtual Postsecondary Night: FCPS will host its Virtual Postsecondary Night on Tuesday, October 21. Sessions are at 5, 6, and 7 pm. This online event offers a series of workshops designed to support students and families as they plan for life after high school. The sessions will cover everything from the college application process and financial aid to community college, vocational programs, and military options. Learn more about the College Fair and postsecondary virtual event.

College Application Support!

Need support with college applications, essays, or recommendation requests? We have several ways to help! 

Monday–Friday During Lunch (Career Center): Our College and Career Specialist, Ms. Viri Acosta, is available daily to review applications, answer questions, and provide personalized guidance.

Thursdays After School (Trailer 14): AVID students are available from 3:00–4:00 p.m. to assist with creating college lists, submitting transcript requests, completing the Common App, and more.

The Atoms Writing Center (Room 274): The Atoms Writing Center (AWC) is here to help with college essays and supplemental questions!

• Online Tutoring: Now open for sign-up. Scan the QR code to register.
• PRIDE Time: Stop by Room 274 and request to visit the AWC during PRIDE Time.
• After School: Beginning this Wednesday, students can drop by after school for essay support and feedback.

Preparing for College Videos

Whether you are just getting started or looking for guidance on specific parts of the process, the recordings below are a great resource to guide you along the way.

Paying for College: Overview of the financial aid process (Bonnie Horowitz, College Access Fairfax)

Exploring Naviance Student: How Naviance helps with goal setting, college/career planning (Mary Lewis and Steve Myers, FCPS Academic & Career Planning Specialists)

Considerations for Students with Disabilities: Differences in accommodations between high school and college (Naomi Martinez-Jones, Disability Services Director at George Mason & Sarah Bake, FCPS Career and Transition Specialist)

Standardized Testing: Role of ACT/SAT in college admissions (Susan Rexford, Director of College Guidance at the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School)

Scholarship 101: How to find and apply for scholarships (Bonnie Horowitz, College Access Fairfax)

NOVA: The Community College Option: Benefits, application process, transfer pathways (Collyn Alford, NOVA Recruitment Coordinator)

Are You Common App Ready?: Guidance on using the Common App effectively (Jameia Tennie, Common App Director of Student Engagement Programs)

NOVA: La Opción del Colegio Comunitario: NOVA overview in Spanish (Sandra Delgado, NOVA Coordinadore de Acercamiento y Reclutamiento)

NOVA Certificates & Workforce Development: Alternative career pathways, certifications, and financial aid options (Jennifer Merrill, NOVA Student Services Manager)

Senior Pictures

Senior Pictures: Class of 2026 students should have received an email from our photography company, Legacy Studios, with instructions on how to schedule an appointment for senior pictures. Pictures will be during school hours in Clausen Hall. If you have any questions, please contact the Legacy Studios Senior Portraits Assistance for Parents/Students line at 716-512-6336.

If you haven’t received an email, don’t worry! You can still register for your senior pictures by going to Legacy's Scheduling Website. Details of each sitting level are there for you to review. Once selected, scroll down the page to make your selection. Choose "set time zone," select the date and times you prefer, then click "continue." Enter your name and payment information (if applicable - note, there is no fee for a yearbook picture). Once your appointment is scheduled, you will receive a confirmation email.