At St. Mary’s, the college application process is an important part of every seniors. According to Ms. Marwood, one of the high school counselor, students can actually begin thinking about college as early as 9th or 10th grade. “It does not have to be major-specific” she explained, “but think about area of interest”. By starting early, students can enter IB with a clear sense of direction and less pressure.
When it comes to preparing for the actual applications, Ms. Marwood emphasized the importance of starting the essays during the summer before senior year. “That’s the best time,” she said, “because seniors get very busy during the fall with their Extended Essays, the second year of IB, and activities like the fall play.” Getting a head start allows students to write stronger essays and approach the application process more calmly and confidently.
For students who feel anxious or overwhelmed, Ms Marwood’s advice is simple: reach out for help. “Just come see your counselors – we can walk you through the process,” she said reassuringly. The counseling team at St. Mary’s is there to support students not only in the technical aspects of applying but also in managing stress and making thoughtful decisions about their futures. With the right preparation and guidance, the journey toward college can be both successful and meaningful.