Heading to Prom?

At this time of year, admission officers hear from anxious high school seniors preparing to make their final college choices in advance of the May 1 deadline. Of course, we also hear from students about preparing for their senior prom. It’s simple. There are certain rites of passage that high school students experience—whether it is getting their driver’s license or taking on a part-time job or experiencing one last high school spring break. Senior prom ranks right up there in the list of high school memories for most students, whether they are going with a group of friends or were asked by a long-time friend or are making it a special date with their significant other. Hopefully, you can soak it in and use this time to celebrate the end of high school with your friends to just have fun.

Far too often in the admission process, we see students lose the excitement that existed when they began thinking about choosing a college. Trying to make that final decision is tough. And, it’s a lot like all of the decisions that go into senior prom. Whether you’re looking for the right dress or tuxedo or want to do something a little more unique, it’s all about making the evening as memorable and as perfect as possible. I know some of you are frustrated with the college selection process and you probably just want it over right now. But much like making the decision on what to wear to prom, your college decision too will fly by. Before you know it, you will take that next step in your life that will also create cherished memories in college much like you have done in high school.

Take time to reflect on your time in high school, realizing that despite its ups and downs, you probably have many great things to be proud of and to celebrate. Similar to your prom, our Loyola seniors will be celebrating their achievements and the end of the year at the annual Damen Ball. Many of them are coming off of our Loyola Weekend of Excellence, where they had the chance to share their academic achievements as well as campus and community involvement with their families and friends. At Loyola, we are also excited to hear about high school graduation plans underway for our incoming students in Loyola’s Class of 2015.

Our hats are off to you!