StM News

When members of the Class of 2025 returned to campus during winter break, they took a moment to reflect on a new chapter of life. Having completed their first semester of college, students shared what they’ve been learning, what they miss, and how their time at St. Martin’s has stayed with them as they adjust to college life.

Missing a Community That Felt Like Home

One of the most common themes students mentioned was community. Many spoke about missing the relationships they built at St. Martin’s—teachers who knew them well, classmates who supported them, and an environment where they felt both encouraged and challenged.

Those relationships, students shared, helped them feel confident entering a new setting and forming connections on campus.

Finding Freedom—and Balance

Students also talked about the freedom that comes with college life. Managing their own schedules, making independent choices, and learning to balance responsibilities has been a meaningful part of the transition.

Several noted that they felt prepared for this shift, having already developed strong time-management and self-advocacy skills during their high school years.

Teachers Who Still Make an Impact

Many reflections centered on specific teachers and classes that shaped how students think and learn. Alumni described feeling comfortable participating in college-level discussions, approaching complex assignments, and adapting to different expectations—skills they trace back to their experiences in the classroom at St. Martin’s.

A Foundation That Carries Forward

Some students even shared that the academic demands of college feel familiar, and in certain cases, manageable, because of the foundation they built in high school.

Rather than feeling overwhelmed, they described feeling ready.

Continuing the Journey

These reflections offer a meaningful snapshot of how students experience the transition from high school to college. They highlight the value of an education that emphasizes academic preparation, strong relationships, and personal growth.

As the Class of 2025 heads back for their second semester in college, they do so carrying lessons learned, connections formed, and a sense of confidence shaped by their time at St. Martin’s.