Philosophy
We understand that each student’s college journey is unique, and we’re here to offer personalized guidance every step of the way. Over the course of four years, we get to know each student on a deeper level, helping them find the right college match. Our approach empowers students to take ownership of their college process, while we provide the support they need to build independence, confidence, and self-advocacy — skills that will serve them well in college and beyond.
Leadership
Our team of college counselors is passionate about helping students succeed. With over 20 years of combined experience in Jewish day schools and in college admissions offices, we have strong relationships with colleges across the country. Through our collaborative approach, each student is paired with a dedicated counselor, while also benefiting from the expertise of both team members. As licensed school counselors, we bring a holistic approach to the college process, focusing not only on academic goals but also on managing stress and maintaining a healthy balance along the way.
Rose Weinstein
Director of College Counseling
rweinstein@leffellschool.org
Cara Levine
Associate Director of College Counseling
calevine@leffellschool.org
Amanda Perez
College Counseling Office Associate
collegecounseling@leffellschool.org
The Changing Landscape of College Admissions & Jewish Life on Campus
The college admissions landscape is always evolving, and we’re committed to staying ahead of the curve. By regularly connecting with admissions officers, attending conferences, and collaborating with leaders at Hillels and Chabads, we ensure our guidance is informed by the latest best practices. Whether it’s navigating testing and applications or understanding campus life, we provide students with current, effective advice to help them succeed.
Our mission is simple: to help every student find the perfect college fit — a place where they’ll be inspired to learn, grow, and thrive academically, socially, and as proud members of the Jewish community.
Class of 2025 Matriculation
Our graduates from the Class of 2025 were admitted to over 120 colleges and universities, and they have matriculated at the following schools:
Boston University
Brown University
Case Western Reserve University
Clark University
College of Charleston (2)
Cooper Union
Colgate University
CUNY Hunter College
Dartmouth College
Dickinson College
Drexel University
Elon University
Emory University (3)
George Washington University
Hofstra University (2)
Indiana University
Ithaca College
Jewish Theological Seminary / Barnard College (2)
Lafayette College
Lehigh University (3)
Lynn University
McMaster University
McGill University
Muhlenberg College (3)
Northeastern University
Northwestern University
New York University
Pace University
Parsons School of Design
Pennsylvania State University
Reichman University
Rowan University
Stevens Institute of Technology
SUNY Binghamton University (4)
SUNY University at Buffalo
SUNY Maritime
Syracuse University (4)
The Ohio State University
Tufts University
Tulane University (2)
University of Chicago
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Delaware
University of Florida (2)
University of Hartford (3)
University of Maryland at College Park (5)
University of Miami (2)
University of Michigan (2)
University of Southern California
University of Vermont
University of Wisconsin (2)
Wake Forest University
Washington University in Saint Louis (2)
Yeshiva University
Class of 2025 Israel Programs
We are proud that 25% of the Class of 2025 will be participating in an Israel program before attending college, including the following programs:
Bar Ilan XP (2)
IDF
Kivunim (2)
Mechinat Beit Yisrael
Mechina Olamit
Midreshet Harova
Shalom Hartman Institute Hevruta (2)
Yeshivat Orayta
Young Judaea Year Course (10)
Grade 9
- During small-group discussions, college counselors dispel common myths about the college process, help students understand the High School transcript, and hold an open Q&A.
- At small, intimate coffee talks with parents, the team shares our philosophy of student-led college planning that allows for self-discovery and independence.
Grade 10
- At a College Night for students and parents, the college office discusses how students can build their story through course selection and extracurricular activities and provides an overview of standardized testing options.
- Parents are invited to a meeting about financial aid and paying for college so that they can plan ahead.
Grade 11
- The college team provides students with guidance on how to research colleges and make college campus visits effective during weekly seminars, individual 1:1 meetings, and on a gradewide college visit trip.
- Families meet individually with the college counselor to review each student’s prospective college list and personal profile.
- Students have the opportunity to meet with college reps who visit The Leffell School and can participate in a college essay writing workshop.
- A weekly newsletter from the college counseling office keeps students and families up to date and on track with college application planning.
Grade 12
- The team runs a college application boot camp for seniors in August, so that each student's Common Application is 80% complete before the first day of school.
- Students continue to meet 1:1 with their college counselor for individualized support, including application and interview prep, essay editing, and submission appointment.
- Students can be matched with a writing advisor as part of our supplemental essay writing program.
- Visits with college reps on Leffell’s campus and weekly newsletters continue, as students finalize their target college list and submit applications.
- GAP year program representatives visit The Leffell School for those exploring alternative post-high school options.
Meet the College Counseling Team
Amanda Perez
collegecounseling@leffellschool.org