Why college fit matters most

At The Ursuline School, college success is measured by far more than acceptance letters or rankings. It centers on fit and on finding a place where each student's interests, gifts, and aspirations can grow.

That philosophy shapes Ursuline's college outcomes for the Class of 2026. Students have earned acceptances to highly selective colleges, flagship public universities, faith-based institutions, specialized programs, and international schools. Their destinations span the Northeast, South, Midwest, and West Coast, along with programs abroad, reflecting both wide opportunity and highly individual paths.

Among those outcomes are acceptances to Dartmouth College, Georgetown University, University of Notre Dame, Barnard College, Boston College, College of William & Mary, and Wake Forest University, alongside a wide range of colleges and universities that reflect students' academic interests and personal goals.

Ursuline's Academic and College Counseling Department guides this student-centered process. Led by Kathy Reilly, who brings more than 30 years of experience in admissions and college counseling, the department helps students think not only about where they apply, but about who they are becoming and how they hope to contribute to a college community.

"The best college choice is not about the name," Reilly said. "It's about the fit."

Quality over quantity

At Ursuline, students are guided to reflect deeply on their interests and commitments rather than trying to do everything at once. Colleges, Reilly explains, are far more interested in sustained involvement and genuine passion than in long lists of activities without focus.

Students are encouraged to build a clear narrative that reflects what motivates them, how they invest their time, and how their strengths are taking shape. That narrative forms the foundation of a strong and authentic college application.

Ursuline's academic programs and leadership opportunities support that growth, including Global Scholars, Science Research, Business and Financial Literacy, Peer Ministry, Student Council, and more than 75 clubs and organizations. Students learn that one interest can lead in many directions and that curiosity often opens unexpected doors.

"If a student loves gaming, that interest can translate into many paths, from graphic design to coding to engineering," Reilly said. "Our role is to help students see the possibilities."

"Our role is to help students see the possibilities."
- Kathy Reilly, interim chair, Academic & College Counseling

Guidance with perspective

Ursuline's approach recognizes that high school students are still discovering who they are. Some arrive with a clear sense of direction, while others continue to explore. The counseling team supports both paths.

Reilly encourages students and families to view college not as a final destination, but as a next chapter. Growth, transition, and independence extend well beyond the classroom, making the overall environment as important as academic offerings.

Families also receive guidance on maintaining perspective. Even strong applicants may face denials, and outcomes do not define a student's worth or future. The goal remains consistent: helping each student find a place where she can thrive.

An open-door approach

The Academic and College Counseling Department, made up of Reilly, Brianne O'Hare, Kate Flanagan, and Jennifer Baker, works with students from sophomore year through senior year. Ninth graders are welcome to start the conversation after the first semester. The Academic and College Counseling office is located on the second floor of the North Building, among the classrooms, reflecting the department's open-door philosophy and making it easy for students to stop in during the school day.

As students share their goals and interests, counselors work alongside them to identify colleges that align with who they are and what they value. Families join the process as partners, while students take ownership of their journey.

"The girls need to find their own voice," Reilly said. "It has to be authentic."

"The girls need to find their own voice. It has to be authentic."
- Kathy Reilly, interim chair, Academic & College Counseling

Advocates for Ursuline students

Throughout the year, the counseling team engages directly with colleges and universities, building relationships that help admissions offices better understand Ursuline's academic rigor, distinctive programs, and the character of its students. These conversations ensure that each student's application reflects her full story.

These outcomes underscore a process rooted in intention, where students pursue colleges that fit who they are and who they hope to become—supported every step of the way at Ursuline.

The Class of 2026 college acceptances reflect ambition and purpose. As acceptance letters arrive, students celebrate one another's successes and look ahead with confidence. Reilly beams, "This is an exciting time, and it's just the beginning." 

Click HERE to see where Ursuline graduates from the Classes of 2021 through 2025 matriculated and how an Ursuline education continues to open doors across disciplines and destinations.