College Counseling
Students are at the center of Saint Mary's College Counseling program, which emphasizes finding an ideal fit where a student will thrive.
Our Mission
College Counseling at Saint Mary's is grounded in developing meaningful partnerships with our students to encourage personal reflection and self-awareness as they progress through high school and on to college. We support our students every step of the way through intentional programming in Seminar classes, beginning in ninth grade. Individual meetings begin upon request by students in ninth and tenth grades and are expected to continue monthly beginning in the winter of junior year. As students move confidently through the college search process, we work closely as a supporter and advocate through the applications process and eventual matriculation. Students are encouraged to bring self-reflection and authenticity to the college search as we work together to identify strengths and talents, promote academic and personal growth, and help foster their independence. We invite parents to participate as partners on this journey by attending meetings, programming, and being available for conversation along the way.
College Decision Day 2022 Video
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100% of graduates admitted to 4-year colleges
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8:1 student-to-faculty ratio
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Average class size is 14 students
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80% of faculty hold advanced degrees in their fields, including 5 PhD’s
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Accredited by the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS)
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Member of the National Coalition of Girls’ Schools, National Association of Independent Schools, Southern Association of Independent Schools, North Carolina Association of Independent Schools, the National Association of Episcopal Schools, The Association of Boarding Schools
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College Counselors are members of the National Association for College Admission Counseling, the Southern Association for College Admission Counseling, and the Association of College Counselors in Independent Schools
Hunt Heffner
Dean of College Counseling
919-424-4117
hheffner@sms.edu
Although the college search process formally begins in the eleventh grade, you and your family have the benefit of access to your college counselors as early as ninth grade. The college counselors at Saint Mary's School offer support to you and your faculty advisor on questions related to academic planning and preparation for college.
The College Counseling Office consistently provides opportunities for Saint Mary's students to assist in the preparation of applying to colleges and universities. They will guide you through the process of identifying and applying to colleges and universities that best fit you based on your academic profile, interests, and goals. They host nearly 100 college representatives on campus each year from both domestic and international institutions and regularly visit other college and university campuses across the country. As COVID-19 guidelines are updated, our college counselors will once again begin visiting colleges and universities across the U.S. Although your path and progress are in your control, you will have the support of the College Counseling Office along the way.
Traditionally, each year, one hundred percent of Saint Mary's seniors are accepted for admission at a wide array of selective colleges and universities. We are heartened by the success Saint Mary's girls experience in the college application and selection process. A willingness on the part of students to explore the educational options that exist at the local, regional, national and international levels allows them to leave the Saint Mary's community and move forward in their educational pursuits successfully.
Our college counselors encourage and welcome your questions, and look forward to working with you.
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Academic News
Congratulations to Isabella Fang ’24, Morgan Kerr ’24, Amy Lu ’24, Caroline Yu ’25, and Colleen Eveson ’26 (online entry) who earned Honors ratings and outstanding evaluations by their adjudicators at the 2023 Young Artist Auditions piano competition on Saturday, March 11, at Meredith College.
