Advice from Students
Livie Zimbler - Class of 2025
Kiley McMahon - Class of 2027
Emily Valentine - Class of 2026
Neala Klein - Class of 2027
Livie Zimbler - Class of 2025
What were you involved in in high school? What leadership roles did you have?
In high school, I was involved in many different clubs and activities. I enjoyed staying busy! I was part of the student council for three and a half years, the spirit council for four years, the swim team for three years, and served as a leader/mentor to freshmen during my senior year to help ease their transition.
How did you decide to ultimately apply test-optional to Xavier?
My school required everyone to take the SAT, and I also chose to take the ACT. However, I didn't feel that my test scores were a true representation of my ability to succeed, so I valued test-optional schools that could take a more holistic approach in reviewing my application without letting test scores be the primary deciding factor.
Any advice for a prospective student applying to Xavier?
My advice to prospective students is to identify what you are passionate about (whether that's an academic or extracurricular interest) and determine what resources are available to help you succeed. It's okay not to know exactly what you want to study or do after college! When you can, make a visit to campus. There is nothing more impactful in the college search than your initial gut reaction when stepping onto campus for the first time. When you find the right place, you will feel at home. Lastly, take into account all factors—academics, clubs, sports, the city, jobs/internships available, campus life, etc.—to determine what is most important for you to get out of your college experience.
Kiley McMahon - Class of 2027
What were you involved in in high school? What leadership roles did you have?
In high school, I was involved in a variety of clubs and groups. Some of the more notable ones included Ministry and Service, the Women Empowerment Club, theater, Book Club, Monarch Media Productions (an umbrella for all our publications, such as the school newspaper and our literary and art magazine), and the Monarch Impact Podcast. I was one of the co-founders of our podcast, which allowed students in the club to engage with alumni and interview them. The episodes were later released to the public on all streaming platforms each month. In the Women Empowerment Club, I was co-president my senior year, and each week we discussed topics that needed more awareness, as well as how we could continue to support and inspire the student body. Throughout high school, I was also fortunate enough to have an internship within the Performing Arts program and an externship with a local small business publication company. Both of these opportunities helped me learn valuable leadership traits and skills, which I have carried with me and embraced in college.
How did you decide to ultimately apply test-optional to Xavier?
While I did submit my test scores to Xavier, I’m very happy that the school offers a test-optional policy. As someone who isn’t a strong standardized test-taker, I understand the anxiety of feeling like your academic worth is determined solely by that number. It can feel limiting, especially since some schools require you to submit them. At Xavier, however, they make it clear that no number should ever limit your worth, and it doesn’t define who you are.
Any advice for a prospective student applying to Xavier?
Be curious and ask questions. Xavier is all about acceptance and opportunity, both of which you can explore while applying here. I originally applied as a Fine Arts major, unaware of the film major. After asking the admissions team about it, I met with the DIFT program head and toured the studio. If I hadn't asked, I wouldn't have found my current major and the opportunities it offers. The college decision process can be very stressful, but you will know if the college you choose is the right one for you. It will fill you with a feeling of warmth letting you know that everything will be okay and that you have the potential to do incredible things.
Emily Valentine - Class of 2026
What were you involved in in high school? What leadership roles did you have?
In high school, I was always busy with some type of extracurricular activity. I started my freshman year by playing sports, such as soccer and running track. My leadership roles included being on the Senior Advisory Board, co-president of Business Professionals of America, an officer for the National Honor Society, an officer for student council, and senior class secretary. I also volunteered as a student ambassador, becoming a mentor to new students and underclassmen. While doing all of this, I became a team captain for the track team and was a varsity player for the soccer team. I was also involved in the homecoming court my senior year and was honored to be named queen.
How did you decide to ultimately apply test-optional to Xavier?
Although I had always been a bright and active student, I found that one of my major struggles was test-taking. I realized that while my test scores were a good indicator of my academic skills, I didn’t want them to be the deciding factor when it came to evaluating my character in the classroom.
Any advice for a prospective student applying to Xavier?
Take a deep breath and pat yourself on the back! You’ve made it this far, and you’ll continue to persevere through the obstacles life hands you. Those are the things that make you who you are. Allow the challenges to transform you into a better person and use them as opportunities to become the best version of yourself. Never forget to always put effort into anything you’re passionate about—you never know what experiences may unfold when you do. That’s, of course, how I ended up home, here at Xavier!
Neala Klein - Class of 2027
What were you involved in in high school? What leadership roles did you have?
In high school, I was involved in cheer and soccer throughout all four years. Although I enjoyed every aspect of sports—the competition, drive, and resilience—I discovered a new talent in my junior year. I created The Social Outreach Club, which managed all social media platforms at my school to recruit prospective students and represent the student body, academic environment, and school spirit. This club allowed students to use digital equipment, develop communication skills, and collaborate on marketing strategies! Being Captain and Club President were two leadership roles I am extremely grateful for, and I loved having fun with them in high school.
How did you decide to ultimately apply test-optional to Xavier?
I decided to apply test-optional to Xavier because I had never been 100% confident in my scores and their reflection of my academic abilities. Xavier was one of many schools that transitioned to test-optional, which relieved so much pressure during the application process. I had never been a strong test-taker but worked very hard in high school, and I wanted my college application to reflect that.
Any advice for a prospective student applying to Xavier?
Apply to different schools and don’t put all of your eggs in one basket! It is important to look back at the schools you're applying to and create a pros and cons list for each. You never know where you'll end up, so don't miss any opportunities to visit and learn about the schools. Choose a school where you can grow and create a solid path for yourself.