COLLEGE GUIDANCE: NYSACAC PRESIDENT

In the Spring of 2007, Michael Acquilano, Director of College Guidance at Staten Island Academy, was elected president of the New York State Association for College Admission Counseling (NYSACAC), whose mission is to be the leader in shaping professional standards, ethical and social responsibility and exemplary practices for secondary and post-secondary counselors. More...

Mr. Acquilano has been in college counseling for fifteen years: five in college admissions and ten in high school counseling. He began his career as an admission counselor at Hobart College, followed by a six-year tenure at Wagner College where he held positions in admissions and development. In 2001 he was appointed Director of College Guidance at Staten Island Academy, after serving four years as the school's Director of Development. Mr. Acquilano also teaches Upper School history.

According to Head of School Diane J. Hulse, herself a former college guidance director, "Admission to outstanding institutions is very competitive. We are fortunate to have an experienced and involved professional like Mr. Acquilano leading our college guidance program. We are very proud of his election as the president of NYSACAC."

Mr. Acquilano's extensive experience in college admissions gives him a unique "insider's" perspective, which is very beneficial to Academy students. The school offers the most comprehensive and individualized counseling programs on Staten Island. With a student to senior advisor ratio of only 8:1, the program outshines any other school in New York City. A team of advisors-Roger Ahern, Linda Coleman, Donald Knies, Brian Manske-work with seniors from the spring of their junior year through the completion of the admissions process in their senior year. Senior advisors are teamed with particular students for the entire admissions process, so that they can fully understand a student's talents and aspirations. Intensive College Nights take place annually to familiarize Upper School families and students with the complex college selection process. Throughout the school year, advisors work with students on such areas as researching colleges and financial aid, preparing application essays, and techniques for admission interviews.

One of the College Guidance Office's most popular and innovative initiatives is a summer bus tour to colleges. An itinerary is selected based on student interest, and Mr. Acquilano and his team of senior advisors travel along with the students to lend their professional expertise to the tour.