Ben Rous,
Assistant Head of School
Director of Upper School
(Former Director of College Counseling)
Director of Upper School
(Former Director of College Counseling)
HRA: Welcome to an ongoing conversation about college admissions. I will be regularly posting thoughts on the subject, and in keeping with the nautical theme of our school, I’m calling it The Sextant (though I could be convinced to change it if I hear a better suggestion!); I figured that, as a sextant is a tool used to navigate, so too might this blog be a useful tool for students and parents to navigate the college admission landscape.I’ve always been attracted to theories which contend that we can learn much about ourselves based on who our favorite Winnie-the-Pooh character is, or which instrument we’d most want to play in a rock band, or where we choose to sit on an airplane. Maybe I’m drawn to these pop-psychology exercises because they are simple ways to distill complexity, and I am fundamentally simple.
I prefer, however, to think that this attraction is the result of my liberal arts tendencies; that is, I love superimposing seeming unrelated things onto each other and seeing what emerges. In these postings, I will try to find truths (or at least, ideas worth considering!) about the world of college admissions.
And this process of college admissions is often perceived as something of a jungle; filled with vision-clouding, dense foliage and perceived as being full of predators and pitfalls, a fabulous prize awaits those who successfully navigate these challenges. (No coincidence, perhaps, that the now quaint Atari video game “Pitfall” was set in a jungle and that the game’s inspiration, Indiana Jones, recovered treasures of immeasurable power and cost!)
The college admission process writ large is a hot topic in venues as disparate as the carpool line and the New York Times. And because it’s such a hot topic, much has been written about it. (Or, I suppose the inverse might actually be the case—because so much has been written about it, it has become a hot topic.)
I hope you will be inspired to participate by sharing your thoughts!
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Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News, VA, celebrates the individuality of each student, creating a supportive environment tailored to their needs. With personalized attention, HRA provides the academic guidance, emotional support, and extracurricular activities necessary for students to thrive. This culture of care and respect informs every aspect of the school’s approach.
HRA is also dedicated to making its top-tier education accessible to all families. Through customized tuition assistance, HRA works to eliminate financial barriers, ensuring all students have access to an exceptional education. With compassion and dedication, HRA offers comprehensive support to its diverse community.
HRA’s Commitment to Excellence
Education at HRA extends beyond academics. HRA is dedicated to nurturing the whole student through a rigorous, character-building curriculum focused on honor, integrity, and personal growth. Each student’s strengths are recognized and nurtured within a caring, close-knit community.
Small class sizes and individual attention ensure students receive the tailored support they need. HRA encourages students to thrive in all aspects—academically, physically, and emotionally—through a balanced approach that includes both academic and extracurricular activities, from athletics to the arts.
Why Choose HRA?
As the Peninsula’s only independent school serving Pre-K through Grade 12, HRA provides a unique educational experience. Accredited by the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, HRA upholds the highest standards of academic excellence.
Beyond academics, HRA offers a broad range of opportunities for personal growth. HRA athletics foster teamwork and sportsmanship, while the Arts program encourages creativity in both visual and performing arts. The REACH initiative further connects classroom learning to real-world applications, promoting community service and shared values.
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HRA offers an exceptional education that emphasizes character development and future success. With a focus on critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and discovery, HRA shapes innovative and compassionate leaders. Serving families in Newport News, Poquoson, Hampton, and Williamsburg, VA, we invite you to schedule a tour to see how our nurturing environment can help your child reach their full potential.
