Admissions

Welcome!

My name is Carolyn Chica Hutchins, and I have the distinct honor of serving as Marin Academy's Director of Admissions and Enrollment Strategy.

In middle school, my interests were varied, my friendships meant the world to me, and the prospect of going to high school felt like a big, exciting next step. With the loving support of my family and guidance from my middle school placement counselor, I landed at an independent school like Marin Academy, and my life was changed for the better.

If you are a middle schooler reading this, I commend you. It is not easy being a young person in this day and age! And whether you feel excited or scared, the truth is that you are at a pivotal stage in your life. Others are turning to you for more leadership and expect a greater sense of responsibility. 

Finding the best school for the next chapter of your academic journey is a big decision, but you don't have to do it alone. You are surrounded by teachers, counselors, peers, and family members who know you well and can help guide your search. You are also full of wisdom, both about yourself and the types of intellectual environments that allow you to thrive. Listen to that intuition, keep an open mind, and when in doubt, reach out. We on the MA Admissions and Tuition Assistance team live by that mantra and love to help.

To the parents, guardians, and adult mentors in the applicant's life — thank you for your support and patience.

While it isn't easy to be a young person today, being a mentor or a parent isn't either! We all want the best for our children, and embarking on a high school decision can feel surreal. Wasn't it just yesterday that we were at kindergarten graduation? They are going through big developmental changes, and for you, it can be a transition from driving the school choice process to playing more of a supporting role.

We at MA are here to help you with that, through the application process and beyond. We encourage you to give your child room to take a leadership role and to engage in the process as deeply or as lightly as you'd like. Don't feel pressure to sign up for all of the events, but please do pay attention to the deadlines. 

And now, a word about Marin Academy

The day I became an independent school student, my life went from black and white to living color. Every day since has only gotten more vibrant and fulfilling. Especially this newest chapter of my life at MA. Our students and colleagues ask big questions and back each other with real generosity. There is a genuine excitement here about shaping a world that keeps changing, one built on democracy and room for every kind of person in it. I hope you'll join us and contribute in your own meaningful way.

All the best,

Carolyn Chica Hutchins, Director of Admissions and Enrollment Strategy

Marin Academy