Foes as Friends (objective guidance on the ‘how to’s’ of applying to independent schools) A small group of independent schools north of Boston has proven that yes, you can form a partnership while still competing for many of the same families. By cooperating to produce an informative evening, educating prospective families on how to navigate the complex (and yes, even the INTIMIDATING) admission process, these schools have put the families first. The evening includes tips on everything from how to learn more about schools in your area, to how to engage with schools you may be interested in, all the way through how to manage the visit, the interview, and the application itself, as well as how to better understand and apply for financial aid.