At Watkins Mill High School, many students have goals of going to college, but the process can often feel overwhelming or hard to navigate alone. That’s where CollegeTracks comes in. It is a program that helps guide students step by step through college applications, financial aid, and planning for their future after high school.
At Watkins Mill High School, the program is supported by Mr. Dom, the College Access Advisor and Program Director. In this role, he works closely with students throughout their college journey by leading workshops, meeting one-on-one with students, and helping them stay organized with important deadlines and requirements. He also stays in contact with teachers, families, and school staff to make sure students are getting the support they need.
Mr. Dom shared that his personal background is one of the reasons he is so passionate about this work. As a first-generation college student, he did not have access to a program like CollegeTracks when he was in high school. Because of that, he explained that he didn’t fully understand the college or financial aid process at the time. This experience motivates him to make sure today’s students do not feel lost or alone when planning for college.
CollegeTracks focuses on giving students access to information they might not otherwise receive. The program not only explains each step of the college process, but also encourages students to believe in themselves and take advantage of opportunities they may not have considered before. A big part of the program is building confidence so students feel more prepared to make decisions about their future.
The program is open to all students at Watkins Mill High School, including undocumented students. However, it is especially helpful for first-generation students, low-income families, and students who are new to the U.S. school system. These groups often benefit the most because they may not have someone at home who has gone through the college process before.
Mr. Dom also shares an important message with students, “don’t be afraid to ask for help.” He encourages students to explore their interests, research different careers, and really think about what they enjoy before making big decisions about their future.
CollegeTracks also stays connected with students through its Instagram page (@wmhscollegetracks), where they post updates, reminders, and helpful resources such as scholarships, deadlines, and opportunities from colleges around Maryland and across the United States. Overall, CollegeTracks plays an important role at Watkins Mill by making the path to college feel more accessible and realistic, especially for students who might not have had guidance otherwise. It helps students see that college is not just a dream—it is something they can actually achieve with the right support.
