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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver, Friday November 3, 2006 - 23 Gr. 12 St. Thomas students weigh post-secondary options By Stephanie Patulli GR. 12, ST. THOMAS AQUINAS F irst came College Day, followed by University Day, and next, School to Career Presentations. It was likely the most crucial week of the school year for the Grade 12 students at St. Thomas Aquinas. Introduced three years ago by STA's Guidance Department, the idea of having representatives from post-secondary institutions come to visit all on one day for one period seems to be wellreceived by students. I attended many of the presentations and was surprised at the receptive and eager nature of all the students who were there. The new concept of having representatives visit for one period per college or university was introduced by STA to avoid class disruption. Many students who may have otherwise been intimidated to visit campuses had the chance to feel comfortable in our school library while learning about their post-secondary options. Choosing whether to go on to college, university or the workplace directly after high school is a frightening prospect for most teens. We are worried we will make the wrong choice, and a lot of this pressure is alleviated by the presentations we have had the privilege to see. Each option is covered in depth on a separate day, making it simple for students to learn as much as they need to know. All this is to prepare students to apply to their 2007 post-secondary endeavours in early November. STA is making the application process easier as well by providing us with group counselling for two weeks followed by two weeks of help with applications. Some of the colleges and universities involved during the post-secondary week included Humber, George Brown, Sheridan, McMaster, University of Toronto, and Ryerson. The presentations usually consisted of a booklet for each student along with an in-depth overview of such topics as campus life, course choices, admission information and residency options. At the end of each presentation, students were encouraged to ask questions about whatever they wished to know. Several Gr. 11 students took time out of their classes to attend the presentations, as well. I was astounded at how much the younger students wanted to know and how serious they were about making their decision. It seems as if the introduction of these days at STA has sparked an interest, rather than apprehension, in life after high school. The Gr. 12 students were involved on all fronts, not just when it came to watching the presentations. Student Ambassadors from STA helped to organize the event, from set- ting up the library for the visiting schools to introducing and welcoming guest speakers. After such an informative week, many students have shown an appreciation for the work STA has done. Actually, after hearing what all these representatives had to say, I am less afraid and much more excited to graduate from high school, and many Gr. 12 students have said the same thing. Since the turnout was so strong, the Guidance Department has already begun planning next year's post-secondary week. If the last three years have been any indication, the tradition will likely live on, and it definitely should. OM FR 00 $4 0 Quality Mausoleum EXCELLENT CRYPT SPACES - BEST PRICES. CALL TODAY.