WESTPORT–Jeff Selingo, a best-selling author and higher education expert, will give a presentation on navigating the college search process at the Westport Library on March 5.

Held in conjunction with the Staples High School Counseling Department, the program, “Dream School: Finding The College That’s Right For You,” begins with a book signing at 5:30 p.m. and talk at 6 p.m. There will also be a moderated Question and Answer session.

The event is free and open to the public, though seating is limited.

The program is intended to help families get through the complexities of college selection and admissions.

Each year, well over 90 percent of Staples High School graduates head off to four-year colleges.  The Class of 2025 spread out to 153 different post-secondary institutions and 95 report being happy with their decision. 

Bill Plunkett, director of school counseling at Staples said Selingo brings decades of reporting experience to a process that often feels opaque and overwhelming to students and parents alike.

According to Plunkett, Staples annually invites outside experts to present to students and families to help them better understand different aspects of the college process.

The district first worked with Selingo in 2020, shortly after his first book was released. Plunkett said his webinar presentation was very well received.

“Dream School,” closely aligns with Staples’ emphasis on fit and helping students look beyond rankings. 

“Given the pressure families often feel around college admissions, we felt it would be valuable to include a national perspective focused on student outcomes, not just acceptance rates,” Plunkett said.

His previous work, Who Gets In and Why, examined the internal decision-making of university admissions offices. In his latest book, Dream School, the focus shiftsshifts the focus toward student agency and interests. The presentation will encourage families to move beyond selectivity and evaluate colleges through the lenses of fit, value, and long-term outcomes.

“Jeff Selingo’s ‘Dream School’ philosophy provides a vital roadmap for navigating today’s admissions landscape,” said Plunkett. “By looking beyond rankings and prestige and focusing on intentional choices grounded in individual fit, our students can find colleges where they are positioned to succeed and grow.”

Sandra Zeigler, College and Career Center Coordinator at Staples said she values how Selingo helps families step back from the noise and pressure of college decisions.

 “He reminds us that success isn’t about chasing the most selective names, but about making thoughtful, informed choices and finding places where students can truly thrive,” Zeigler said.

Copies of Dream School will be available for purchase both on-site at the event and through the registration link. Families can register and explore book purchasing options here.

Selingo is a New York Times bestselling author and a regular contributor to The Atlantic and The Washington Post. He serves as a special advisor for innovation at Arizona State University. His work aims to help families navigate the college admissions process with confidence and realistic expectations.

The Westport Library

20 Jesup Road Westport, CT 06880 / 203-291-4800

www.westportlibrary.org

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