Collage of students participating in school and college activities, including classroom instruction, campus conversations, and friends looking at brochures together.During Virginia College Application Week (VCAW), PWCS students received guidance, resources, and encouragement as they took important steps toward their plans after high school. 

Throughout the two-week initiative, high schools across PWCS hosted events designed to help students explore postsecondary opportunities, navigate the application process, and build confidence in their plans after graduation. From application and scholarship assistance to college visits, career exploration activities, and workshops, students engaged with resources that support a variety of college and career pathways. 

At Potomac High School, seniors marked an important milestone with an application submission celebration. Students worked alongside counselors to complete and submit college applications, receiving support and encouragement as they took a significant step toward their future. 

Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School offered first-generation college students the opportunity to tour George Mason University (GMU). Students also participated in lunchtime activities designed to expand their knowledge of postsecondary opportunities. 

At C.D. Hylton High School, students participated in essay-writing and major-selection workshops led by representatives from GMU. During a session focused on academic majors and minors, students gained deeper knowledge of college planning and the support systems available to help them succeed. 

"I was able to understand the difference between majors and minors and how I can switch my major throughout my undergraduate time. The concept of academic advising is new to me, so being able to hear from a GMU academic advisor was super helpful in understanding these terms!" said a Hylton student who attended the workshop. 

Students at Brentsville District High School attended a college and career expo featuring representatives from colleges and industry partners with a focus on turf management programs and related careers. Later that day during the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the school's new Turf Research Center, Principal Amanda Burke highlighted the importance of exposing students to a variety of postsecondary pathways. 

"In PWCS, our goal is to prepare students for life after high school, but that does not mean preparing every student for the same path. The trades, turf management, and technical careers matter, and our students deserve the chance to see those possibilities while they are in high school," Burke said.  

College and career exploration continued at Battlefield High School, where students participated in a resume workshop, learned about application resources, received fee waivers, and connected with college representatives, including those from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). 

"During [VCAW], Battlefield High School [hosted] several colleges to provide students with information about their academic programs and opportunities. We recognize that students have a wide range of interests and many options when considering their postsecondary paths," said Amy Shelton, college and career counselor at Battlefield High. 

"As part of these efforts, a representative from the MICA met with juniors and seniors enrolled in AP Portfolio, AP Studio Art, and Photography II courses. Our goal is to expose students to a variety of educational opportunities so they can explore their options, compare pathways, and make informed decisions about their futures." 

VCAW reflects the division's commitment to preparing students for success after high school by helping them explore opportunities aligned with their interests, strengths, and aspirations. 

Whether students plan to attend a four-year university, community college, or trade school; pursue a military program or apprenticeship; or enter the workforce, PWCS provides resources and support to help them make informed decisions about their next steps. 

PWCS offers a variety of tools and resources to help students explore college and career options, plan for life after graduation, and navigate the application process. Students and families can learn more through the College and Career Readiness webpage and explore the Student Vision Profile.