Discovering Pathways: WSP’s College Counseling Approach
By Robert Kostrzeski | Director of College Counseling
At the Waldorf School of the Peninsula (WSP), our college counseling program is intentionally designed to reflect the deeply personalized and holistic philosophy of Waldorf education. We understand that each student’s journey is unique, and we are here to support them with an approach that is highly personalized and thoughtfully aligned with the Waldorf values of fostering creativity, resilience, and intellectual curiosity.
Rooted in a comprehensive understanding of human development, Waldorf education provides students with the opportunity to thrive through a challenging and stimulating academic program integrated with the practical, fine, and performing arts. Our college counseling program extends this approach by guiding students and their families through the entire college application process with warmth, expertise, and individual attention.
Comprehensive Support and Resources
The college counseling program at WSP includes extensive parent programming and communication to ensure families are well-informed about global colleges and universities, career coaching, standardized testing such as the PSAT and SAT, and the many possibilities available to their children. Through ongoing one-on-one meetings, we take a differentiated approach to best meet each student’s specific needs and aspirations.
We also provide access to valuable tools like MaiaLearning, an online college counseling platform featuring personality-, career-, and strength-based assessments to help students discover their unique gifts and plan their future paths. Throughout the year, our students benefit from over 60 visits from colleges and universities, giving them the opportunity to explore a wide range of educational possibilities.
Collaboration and Professional Alignment
Our Director of College Counseling works closely with learning support teachers and the high school counselor to ensure every student’s academic and social emotional needs are met. We align our practices with the standards of the American School Counselors Association (ASCA) and the International School Counselors Association (ISCA), while actively participating in professional organizations such as NACAC, WACAC, and International ACAC.
Celebrating Our Students’ Successes
The Class of 2025 is eagerly awaiting responses from colleges and universities. Already, three of our 10 seniors who applied have been accepted to their top-choice school, while one has been accepted to their second-choice school through Early Decision programs. Here is a complete list of acceptances thus far as students await other good news. These results speak to the dedication, creativity, and commitment of our students, faculty and the individualized support we provide.
At the Waldorf School of the Peninsula, we strive to empower each student to achieve their highest potential, both academically and personally. Our goal is not only to help students gain acceptance to excellent global colleges and universities but also to prepare them to thrive as resilient, compassionate, and thoughtful individuals ready to engage with the world.
Robert Kostrzeski was born in Chicago and has lived in six U.S. states and eight different countries, embracing the life of a Third Culture Adult. He holds a B.A. in French and Spanish and an M.A. in Pedagogy and Francophone Literature. With over 25 years of experience as a University Advisor and College Counselor in U.S. independent and international schools, Robert is excited to bring his expertise to Waldorf School of the Peninsula. He notes that WSP is his first Waldorf educational experience, and he couldn’t ask for better mentors than his dedicated colleagues here. In his free time, Robert enjoys exploring the world of oxymorons, like “unbiased opinions” and “minor miracles,” as well as indulging in life’s simple pleasures: dark chocolate (72% or more), french fries with mayonnaise, and spicy food. He’s an avid international traveler and loves spending quality time with his son.
