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College Counseling

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The College Counseling Office at Saint James School facilitates a college search and application process that celebrates the talents of our student body, but is also tailored to the needs of every individual.
Our comprehensive programming, bespoke guidance and dynamic research tools empower students to engage directly with the college search process, and in doing so engenders a sense of ownership towards their future.

In its totality, our college counseling philosophy is holistic and seeks to echo the larger school mission to “challenge and inspire our students to be leaders for good in the world.”

Learn more about

OUr Approach

Claggett Hall

Collaborative

As a small academic and residential community, we take a highly collaborative approach to college counseling. We draw on insights from teachers, coaches, residential advisors, extracurricular sponsors, and the chaplaincy to help our students find their own narrative. Our approach builds a network of support available throughout the application, decision notification and matriculation process.

Students walking on campus

Intentional

Our college counseling program is intentional in its aim to find the right ‘fit’ for every student. We encourage strategic college searches that match aspirations with individual needs, whether they be academic, extracurricular, financial, social, etc. Thus, we advocate for a balanced and well-rounded college list that realizes the full potential of every student.

Commencement

Reflective

Our approach is inherently reflective as students are asked to think about what they value in their educational experience. In this way, we examine dimensions of fit such as academic offerings, athletics, finances, geography, size and student life in order to develop a college search that aligns with each student in an authentic manner. Hence, our students apply to college with a level of confidence that is genuine, purposeful and forward thinking.

Get the Facts

SJS College Counseling

By the Numbers

Saint James students accepted into college:

  • 100 Percent

Students admitted to one of their top three college choices:

  • 99 Percent

Percent of students who are the only member of their class at the college they attend:

  • 85 Evidence of finding the perfect fit!

Number of college admission officers who visit the Saint James campus:

  • 50

Sixth Form college essay workshops held each year:

  • 3

Total number of college acceptances by the Class of 2023:

  • 145 Across 29 states and Washington, DC

AP courses offered:

  • 17

AP scores that were a 3, 4 or 5:

  • 93 Percent
Office of College Counseling

Director of College Counseling

Molly Lachut

The SJS Director of College Counseling will guide you through the college preparation, search, and application process.  Students and families are encouraged to reach out along the way if they have any questions. 

Molly Lachut hails from New Hampshire and arrived at Saint James in 2014. She is a proud graduate of Kenyon College, earning a BA Biology and History while also playing softball and field hockey for the Lords and Ladies. She earned her MEd in Educational Leadership from The George Washington University in DC. In addition to her role as director of college counseling, Mrs. Lachut assists with coaching field hockey and is a former dorm head. She is also a member of NACAC and PCACAC.

Mrs. Lachut, Director of College Counseling
Events

College Counseling

Programming

The Office of College Counseling endeavors to provide current parents and students programming that will give further insight into the college admission and application process. Events are held either virtually or in-person on campus.

The following is a list of programs we have been pleased to offer our families.

News

College Counseling

Insights