
USL students are exposed to a wide range of colleges and universities, professors, and disciplines starting in the 3rd grade so they can make informed decisions based upon real-world examination.
College Prep
By senior year, a USL 12th grader has been on 100+ field trips, talked to religious leaders from 15 houses of worship, met representatives of the four major political parties, traveled all over America and visited 10+ college campuses, and sat in on classes at a local college.
Dual Enrollment
By many students’ Junior and Senior years, they are eligible for dual credit college classes that speak to individual interests and ambitions. Over a third of USL Upper School students are enrolled in at least one College of Charleston course for direct experience in a college classroom, traveling to the downtown campus, meeting professors, and experiencing diverse perspectives.
College Counseling
Upper School students benefit from the ongoing guidance of multiple college counselors: Don Burkard, B.A., M.A., retired from the College of Charleston after a 30-year career as Dean of Students and Vice President of Enrollment, Sara Peck, B.A., M.A., USL Upper School Director, and USL’s full-time counselor Winnie Caetta, B.A., M.S. Together they help our students navigate the sometimes confusing and stressful college selection and application process.
Job Shadow Program
The Job Shadow Day Program at USL is designed to help our students learn more about career fields of interest by observing professionals in real-life work settings. It ensures students have an opportunity to explore varying career choices and experience some of them first hand through observation of real-life work settings
Life and Leadership Course
We aim to develop students who have more than just strong academic skills. In Leadership & Life Skills, guidance is provided on a wide range of experiences, from meeting new people to preparing for an upcoming LOTC. L&L, as it is fondly called, is a cornerstone of building adults who are aware of the world and steeped in civics and students who are leaders and advocates.
Check out the other videos from our College and Beyond series
College and Beyond: Perspective from a Current Student
College and Beyond: Perspective from Alumni Parents
College and Beyond: Perspective from a School Counselor
Preparing for life beyond USL takes determination, discipline, and courage.


