College Counseling
The College Counselors at Saint Ignatius work closely with each and every student and his parents/guardians from the very beginning of the college search process through the application phase, the financial aid and scholarship applications, through to decision making. As every young man is an individual, we tailor our process to help each student discover what God is calling him to do.
The College Counselors at Saint Ignatius High School work with young men to lead them not just to successful lives, but lives of significance.” -Fr. Robert Welsh, S.J. ’54, former President of Saint Ignatius High School
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing the right college.
The College Counseling Department presents a ‘Day of Discernment’ for seniors to reflect on their plan thus far and in the future. The department also hosts a ‘College Readiness Day’ for seniors, bringing back alumni and guest speakers to discuss issues students will face in college.
We process more than 2500 College applications every year!
College Counseling Team
We meet with the entire freshman class to encourage them to achieve their fullest academically, so that they will have choices that they love when it comes to identifying colleges. The importance of grades, involvement, and finding your own path are topics covered with the freshman class.
During sophomore year, we meet with students to discuss the importance of concentrating on strong academic performance, becoming involved in extracurricular activities, and utilizing resources to begin exploring potential careers.
During junior year, we meet with the class to discuss PSAT preparation, SAT and ACT preparation, and testing dates.
We meet to explore how the intersection of strengths, interests, and values connects to their future college, career, personal, and professional goals. Every junior is assigned a college counselor in the fall after a class meeting of juniors and their parents.
Every student and his family have a one-on-one meeting with their college counselor in the winter to discuss college choices. The college counselor will follow up with the student in the spring to see how he has progressed.
In the second semester, we host a series of career connections with career speakers for all grades.
We also sponsor an essay writing workshop so that juniors can get a head start on their college essays during the summer.
At senior orientation, students are urged to schedule a one-on-one meeting with their college counselors to discuss further testing, their college applications, deadlines to apply, and scholarship opportunities.
During senior year, college counseling:
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sponsors a college application boot camp in August.
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sponsors a senior and parent financial aid program.
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contracts with a financial aid advisor from College Now who is available to meet with students and their families at Saint Ignatius to help navigate the world of college financial aid.
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hosts a senior celebration in May to congratulate students on their futures.