During the Spring 2024 semester, Director of College Counseling and Guidance Counselor, Melissa Dudak Byram ‘01, traveled to Dublin, Ireland, where she made an official visit to University College Dublin. There, she learned more about international college admissions in order to better serve Nazareth students as they build their plans to light their world after graduation.
You’ve represented Nazareth students and our school’s mission at different colleges around the country, and now the world. Can you explain why you visit schools and why it’s important to “educate the whole person”?
The goal in visiting colleges around the United States and the world is to not only meet with admissions staff, but to also experience the college campuses. “Educating the whole person” continues even after students graduate from Nazareth. I always keep in mind that students are not only going to college for an education, but are also going to college to develop all parts of their lives. The people on a college campus matter. The vibe of college campus matters. The clubs and activities on a college campus matter. The resources on a college campus matters. By visiting college campuses around the world, I can experience what isn’t on their websites. This helps me counsel the Nazareth students on what is the best fit for them personally.
What is one thing you learned or discovered during your visit to Ireland?
I learned that going to college overseas is not scary at all! It is very doable and is actually more affordable than one would think. Most importantly, I learned that in Ireland (as well as in most European countries) students earn a degree in 3 years. This saves one full year of tuition.
How did you carry your Nazareth education with you when you visited UCD?
I carried out Nazareth’s Pillar of Scholarship during my visit. I met with their admissions staff and department chairs in all areas of study to learn about what their college can offer students at Nazareth Academy. Learning about international college admissions has been one of the most fascinating experiences of my career at Nazareth.
What is your best wish for Nazareth Academy on the occasion of our 125th Anniversary?
My wish is that all of the amazing people in the 125-year history can see what their legacy has created. We stand on the shoulders of those who have come before us, and we are blessed to carry out the mission for the next 125 years.