Welcome to College & Academic Advising! At Saint Dominic Academy, we believe that finding the right college requires thoughtful self-analysis, careful research, and continued support from the college advisor, teachers, and parents.
Student Services
At St. Dominic Academy, our Director of College and Academic Advising is dedicated to empowering students to achieve their academic and college aspirations. The director provides personalized guidance to help students navigate their academic journeys, explore college options, and develop essential skills for success.
Our student-centered advising program begins in 9th grade. Some of the key offerings include:
Grade 9: Building a Strong Foundation
- Academic Planning: Introduction to high school curriculum and expectations.
- Study Skills: Development of effective study habits and time management techniques.
- Exploration of Interests: Guidance on identifying interests and extracurricular activities that align with future goals.
- Academic Resume: Students will begin their own academic resume as they learn about the importance of
extracurricular activities and community involvement.
Grade 10: Expanding Horizons
- Career Exploration: Resources and assessments to explore potential career paths and academic interests. All
sophomores will also participate in a career fair to further deepen their understanding of possible career options. - Course Selection Guidance: Assistance with choosing courses that align with college and career aspirations.
- College Information Sessions: Introduction to the college landscape and discussions about various types of
institutions.
Grade 11: Focused Preparation
- College Search Process: Personalized support in researching colleges, understanding admission requirements, and building a balanced college list.
- Standardized Test Planning: Guidance on preparing for the SA T/ACT, including test-taking strategies and timeline for registration.
- Application Readiness: Workshops on writing impactful personal statements and essays, as well as gathering letters of recommendation.
- Junior College Seminar: All Juniors will participate in a semester-long series of workshops with the Director of
College Advising in the spring. Topics will include college search process, beginning of a college list, application requirements, a planned college visit, and personal essay rough draft. This Seminar will be Pass/Fail.
Grade 12: Navigating the Final Steps
- Application Support: Hands-on assistance with the college application process, including deadlines and submission strategies.
- Financial Aid Parent Night: Information on scholarships, grants, and financial aid applications (FAFSA/CSS Profile). This presentation will be scheduled as close to the FAFSA opening date as possible.
- Senior Meetings: Seniors will meet with the Director of College Advising, individually, to finalize college lists,
requirements and additional materials. Meetings will begin as early as the second week of school to help break down the college application process into manageable steps. Follow up will happen until applications are submitted and final decisions are made.
At St. Dominic Academy, we are dedicated to providing students with tailored support at every stage of their academic
journey, ensuring they are well-prepared for success in college and beyond.
Parent Services
- Parent workshops and information sessions
- Naviance Software (info on all colleges)
- Regular e-mail communication
Contact
Martin Graef
Director of College & Academic Advising
Martin.graef@portlanddiocese.org
(207) 782-6911
Schedule an appointment here
College Acceptances
Saint Dominic Academy graduates were accepted into the colleges listed below for undergraduate study. After graduating from college, students pursued advanced degrees at major U.S. and international universities, including medical school at Harvard, mechanical engineering at Yale, officer training at West Point, and public health at Johns Hopkins.