Why The Prep Hand-Delivers Acceptance Letters

Many traditions show the true character, culture, and identity of St. Joseph’s Prep. These include senior caroling, monthly school masses, and the turkey bowl/pep rally. But one of the newest, most special of these has recently been introduced, and it looks to continue on for years to come.

December is an important month for many events at The Prep. For instance, the annual Christmas concert is held, showcasing the talent, skill, and overall pleasure of music from fellow Prep students. In addition, the Prep’s Operation Santa Claus enters its finale — a day where Prep students and teachers deliver presents to the needy families of North Philadelphia. Perhaps the most interesting and exciting event that is held this month is the day that the Prep sends out their acceptance letters, not in the ordinary mailbox style of delivery, but rather in a face-to-face interaction.

Since its first delivery five years ago, the St. Joseph’s Prep faculty and alumni welcome the newest class of accepted students by handing off the acceptance letter to each student in addition to handing a lawn sign with “ACCEPTED!” in bold and the Hawk logo below it. It forces you to put a smile on your face when you see the faces of the accepted students when they are face-to-face with someone from The Prep. It is an experience that may be unlike any other in the city and possibly even the area.

Aside from the purpose of The Prep taking pride in admitting each applicant into the Prep family, these actions highlight the Jesuit values and beliefs in action, not just by words but also by action. “We practice what we preach,” said Mr. Brian McCloskey of the admissions office, “it is the Jesuit mantra of ‘cura personalis’ in action”. The Prep does not continue this event just for the sake of “going the extra mile”, but also for the idea of belonging to the brotherhood, something that most Prep students can agree with.

And with the end of the strenuous review cycle for The Prep admissions office, the team has a chance to take a breath and savor the moments as they watch the future generations of St. Joseph’s Prep students call 17th and Girard home.