Post-Secondary Placement and Support

At Nativity Worcester, the Post-Secondary Transition Process is a comprehensive, long-term support system that begins in the final quarter of a graduate’s junior year of high school and extends until they reach the age of 22. However, all Nativity graduates have lifelong access to support whenever needed.

During the last quarter of their junior year, students participate in a post-secondary planning meeting to explore their aspirations beyond high school. Based on their chosen pathway, they embark on one of three tailored processes: 

• Transitioning Directly into the Workforce
• The Trade School Application Process
• The College Placement Process

Regardless of their selected route, all graduates receive career readiness training and experiential learning opportunities designed to equip them with the skills necessary for professional success. This career readiness training begins as early as the 8th grade, ensuring a strong foundation for future workforce entry.

After high school graduation, the Graduate Support Program maintains close engagement with its graduates and alumni, providing ongoing guidance and resources tailored to their evolving needs and life circumstances.

The College Placement Process at Nativity Worcester supports graduates in exploring, applying to, and preparing for success in higher education. This process includes personalized college advising, application and financial aid guidance, essay support, and interview preparation. To help students make informed decisions, we also host college tours during the summer, providing first hand exposure to various campuses and academic environments. Through this comprehensive approach, we ensure graduates are well-equipped to navigate the college admissions process and transition smoothly into their post-secondary journey.

Timeline:

Junior Year (Last Quarter)

• Post-Secondary Planning Meeting: Introduce college options, discuss interests, and explore potential majors and career paths.
• College Readiness Workshops: Begin workshops on college essays, standardized tests, and application processes.
• Career Readiness Training: Continue career exploration and readiness programs, including resume-building and interview skills.

Summer Before Senior Year

• College Tours: Participate in organized college tours to explore campuses and learn about academic programs.
• College Research: Begin researching colleges and universities, focusing on academic programs, campus culture, and financial aid options.
• Personal Statement & Essays: Begin drafting and revising personal statements and application essays with guidance and feedback.

Senior Year (First Quarter)

• College Application Planning: Finalize a list of colleges to apply to, ensuring a balance of reach, match, and safety schools.
• Personal Statement & Essays: Begin drafting and revising personal statements and application essays with guidance and feedback.
• Standardized Test Preparation: If applicable, prepare for SAT, ACT, or other standardized tests.

Senior Year (Second Quarter)

• Submit Applications: Complete and submit college applications, ensuring all deadlines are met.
• Financial Aid & Scholarships: Begin completing the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and applying for scholarships.

Senior Year (Third Quarter)

• College Decision Support: Review acceptance letters and financial aid packages; discuss options with family, mentors, and advisors.
• College Decision Finalization: Confirm the college choice and complete any remaining steps for enrollment.

Post-High School Transition

• Summer Preparation: Finalize housing, orientation, and any necessary college preparations.
• Continued Support: Ongoing guidance and support through the transition to college, including advice on moving in and adjusting to campus life.

The Trade School Application Process at Nativity Worcester provides guidance and support for graduates pursuing vocational and technical education. This process includes identifying suitable trade programs, navigating application requirements, securing financial aid opportunities, and preparing for entrance exams or interviews. Through personalized advising and career readiness training, students gain the skills and resources needed to successfully transition into their chosen trade and enter the workforce with confidence.

Timeline:

Junior Year (Last Quarter)

• Post-Secondary Planning Meeting: Discuss trade school options based on career interests and skills.
• Career Exploration: Begin exploring potential trades and industry opportunities, including job shadowing or informational interviews with professionals in the field.
• Career Readiness Training: Continue with career readiness workshops, focusing on resume building, interview techniques, and work ethic.

Summer Before Senior Year

• Research Trade Programs: Begin researching trade schools and programs that align with career goals, focusing on program length, accreditation, and job placement rates.
• Program Requirements: Identify specific application requirements for chosen trade schools, including prerequisites, certifications, and entrance exams.

Senior Year (First Half)

• Application Preparation: Prepare application materials, including resumes, personal statements, and any required documentation (e.g., recommendation letters, transcripts).
• Submit Applications: Start submitting applications to trade schools, ensuring all deadlines are met.
• Financial Aid and Scholarships: Complete the FAFSA and research scholarships specific to trade programs.

Senior Year (Second Half)

• Entrance Exams and Interviews: If required, complete entrance exams or attend interviews for trade programs.
• Acceptance and Decision: Review acceptance offers from trade schools and decide on the best fit for career goals.

Post-High School Transition

• Finalize Enrollment: Confirm enrollment in chosen trade school, complete any necessary paperwork, and prepare for orientation.

Continued Support: Maintain contact with Graduate Support Program for continued support as graduates transition into their trade school programs.