Why College is Still Worthwhile 

A 2023 Workday report also found that college graduates have greater career mobility, which can lead to better jobs and help them recover from underemployment. The report also found that those with a bachelor's degree earn a 25% wage premium within a year of graduating, even if their job doesn't require a degree.

While the value of a college education is undeniable, gaining admission often hinges on key factors: a student’s unweighted GPA, compelling coursework, and personal character—demonstrated through extracurricular involvement (quality over quantity), personal essays, and recommendation letters. At Dawson School, we help students put their best academic foot forward and, more importantly, help students develop the personal qualities that make a meaningful difference in the admissions process and life in general.

With 100% of Dawson graduates accepted to an accredited four-year university or college, our college admission acceptance rate surpasses the national average by 10%, and for ‘very competitive’ schools Dawson surpasses the national average by 20%. While many high schools can help students achieve high grades or test scores, Dawson goes beyond the numbers by fostering opportunity, building meaningful personal connections, and empowering students with the agency to develop essential life skills and confidence—qualities that ensure success in college and beyond. This kind of educational experience is harder to come by at bigger schools.

Dawson provides students with limitless opportunities to explore their interests and passions through an expansive range of extracurricular activities and community involvement. From traditional clubs and athletics to unique, student-led initiatives—like environmental conservation efforts and cultural outreach programs—students are encouraged to pursue what excites them. This breadth of experiences not only helps students develop leadership and teamwork skills but also allows them to discover and cultivate their passions in meaningful ways. Every student at Dawson finds a way to engage with the community, broadening their perspectives and preparing them to excel in both personal and academic pursuits.

At Dawson, teachers truly know their students. This deep understanding enables them to write personalized, impactful letters of recommendation that highlight students' unique abilities and growth. These letters reflect the meaningful connections between faculty and students, giving our graduates a distinct advantage in the admissions process.

Students at Dawson also learn to harness their own agency, becoming individuals who can articulate their strengths, values, and aspirations with clarity and confidence. These skills are essential for crafting compelling essays that resonate with college admissions teams, setting our students apart in a competitive landscape.

Leadership
Every student is empowered to drive change. Whether it’s presiding over town council or founding a club to protect local wildlife, every student has the chance to lead. This culture ensures graduates understand their role in a connected world, realizing their power to inspire change and the responsibility to do good.

A Love of Learning
At Dawson, learning is not just about meeting academic benchmarks—it’s about cultivating a deep curiosity and hunger for knowledge. Students are encouraged to ask questions, explore new ideas, and pursue their interests with enthusiasm. This love of learning transforms them into lifelong learners who are motivated not by grades alone but by a genuine desire to understand the world. With a focus on inquiry-based learning, Dawson instills the habits of curiosity, creativity, and intellectual exploration that prepare students to thrive in any setting.

Risk-Taking and Resilience
Failure isn’t feared at Dawson—it’s embraced as part of the journey. The curriculum encourages students to take bold risks, learn from setbacks, and persist until they succeed. This mindset fosters hard work and builds resilience, equipping students for future challenges.

Passion and Purpose
Students at Dawson are encouraged to explore their interests and passions, with more freedom to shape their studies than at most schools. This approach not only nurtures personal growth but helps students develop the skills they need to pursue their goals with purpose.

Global Perspectives
Dawson’s experiential learning takes students beyond the classroom—to the mountains, prairies, and beyond. Traveling internationally and across the U.S. exposes students to diverse cultures and perspectives. This global exposure teaches students to approach life with humility, empathy, and a willingness to learn from others.

Writing Wizardry
Writing is a cornerstone of Dawson’s curriculum. Students engage in extensive writing assignments, preparing them for the rigors of college-level coursework. They enter college ahead of the curve, often helping peers and excelling in essay-based assignments. This proficiency also gives them an edge in securing internships, jobs, and funding for future projects.

Effective Communication
Dawson students learn early on how to advocate for themselves. Students graduate high school with the confidence and skill to build relationships with faculty, pitch ideas in the boardroom, and express ideas clearly.
 

Flexibility and Options
Dawson understands that each student’s journey is unique. Whether aiming for the Ivy League, considering a gap year, or exploring vocational paths like culinary schools, students receive equal support and encouragement. With the help of their faculty advisor, college counselor, and other mentors and coaches, each student finds the path that best aligns with their individual goals, personality, cultural and financial needs. 

 

College remains a valuable and transformative experience, offering a blend of academic, personal, and professional growth.Dawson School’s dedicated approach to college readiness ensures students are not only prepared to enter college but are also equipped to thrive once they arrive. With a focus on leadership, resilience, and lifelong learning, Dawson students graduate ready to make the most of every opportunity, becoming engaged citizens and achieving fulfilling lives long after college.

Studies cited: 

2023 Workday Report