Guidance and Counseling

College Guidance

College preparation at Maryvale is an ongoing process throughout a student's four years of high school. The Director of Counseling works closely with the school administration, faculty and parents to assist students with their development in the areas of academics, organization and study skills, decision-making and career preparation.

Included in this process is a specific regimen of standardized tests that begins in the freshman year with an introduction to the PSAT, and progresses through the PSAT again in the sophomore year, to the PSAT and ultimately the SAT or ACT in the junior and senior years. Advanced Placement testing is also available for qualified students.

Formal introduction to the college search, selection and application process begins early in the junior year. Each student and her parents meet individually with the Director of Counseling to develop a personal plan for securing acceptable college placements. These sessions include a review of the student's academic history, interpretation of test scores and assistance with course selection.

The College Counseling Center houses computerized college and career data as well as numerous guides, videos, view books and applications. In addition, college admissions representatives visit the Maryvale campus throughout the first semester and students are encouraged to attend the Calvert Hall College Fair, and Baltimore National and AIMS College Fairs for additional resource material.

Traditionally, 100% of Maryvale graduates attend college.

Counseling Services

Counseling services at Maryvale address the myriad of issues facing young women in today's world. From Grades 6-12, individual and small group sessions explore school, home, and social concerns. Among the topics explored with our students are adolescent depression, substance abuse and eating disorders. Physicians and other professionals from Johns Hopkins Hospital, Sheppard Pratt Health Systems, and Baltimore County Office of Substance Abuse regularly assist the Director of Counseling in providing up-to-date information and age-appropriate educational programs.

Advisor/Advisee Program

Maryvale's Advisor/Advisee program pairs a faculty member with a group of 12-15 students. Once or twice a month the group gathers under the guidance of the faculty advisor to discuss an issue or develop a concept determined by the Middle School team. The material is handled in an age-appropriate manner with time for students to interact and share their ideas and thoughts. The small group setting enables the student to feel safe in a trusting environment while developing life skills.