College prep the Classical way

JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — The Jackson Hole Classical Academy announced Monica Vitale has joined the school as Dean of Academics and College Counselor with a master’s degree in Global and International Education from Drexel University.

Prior to joining JHCA earlier this year, Mrs. Vitale worked for 15 years in several academic, advisory and admissions roles at a college-preparatory boarding school in New England. She says having been on both sides of the admissions desk has allowed her to better prepare students for college and career.

“One of my roles back east was to support our international students through the college admissions process, which offered me a unique lens from which to view this often daunting experience,” Vitale says. “In addition, having served in prep school admissions as the person reviewing files and making admissions decisions, I am better able to assist students with how to make a lasting, positive impression in the college interview process.”

Many of the students Mrs. Vitale mentored have gone to study at excellent institutions nationally and internationally. She says the “aha!” moment, when students work through the fog of post-high school decisions and see where they are meant to be, is the most rewarding part of her job.

“I love walking alongside students as they find their path. For some, it’s going to a competitive university, for others it’s a dynamic art school, yet others find their place in a small liberal arts school. The myriad choices allows for a wonderful placement for each unique student,” Vitale says.

Mrs. Vitale says she loves getting to know each student, their story, their hopes, their worries, their unexpected talents, and helping them find an institution that will allow them to flourish and thrive.

Her advice to high school students currently going through the college admissions process?

“Don’t be so focused on the end goal that you lose track of the path you’re on. High school is a time of immense academic, social, and personal growth. By moving slowly, carefully, and thoughtfully through the college process, students can pace themselves and still savor their memorable high school years,” she says.