“I have grown into my own skin at Saint Mary’s and have been given a platform, a voice, and a method to be able to speak out on my opinions to make meaningful change.”
Assistant Director of Admission/Campus Visit Coordinator
She/her
Email: cmcnamara@saintmarys.edu
About Claire
Hello! My name is Claire McNamara, and I am the Campus Visit Coordinator and an Assistant Director for Admission. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to travel to fifteen different countries, even living in England for a semester! South Bend, however, is my ultimate home, and I love that I am back in “The Bend” to work at Saint Mary’s College.
I graduated from Manchester University in 2016, and am currently working toward my master’s degree for Higher Education Administration through Louisiana State University. As a Student Ambassador at Manchester, I developed a passion to help students though the college search and decision process. Prior to this position, I worked as an auditor for a year and a half and an admission counselor for about three years. Visits and events are, for me, one of the most important parts of the decision process. I remember my college visits and the events I attended which helped solidify my college decision. I look forward to helping others find their home-away-from-one though the visits and events I have the pleasure to now plan and oversee.
Getting to Know Claire
Current music you're listening to:
I listen to a lot of Disney, musicals, Christian, Country, Big Band, and pop hits.
Your dream vacation:
I have been really lucky to have traveled quite a bit. I actually studied abroad in England for a semester my sophomore year in college! However, one place I did not travel to while I was there was Ireland. I would LOVE to go there sometime soon!
Your favorite restaurant:
For a casual restaurant, I LOVE Panera Bread. For a more formal restaurant, my favorite is Bonefish.
Your favorite historical figure and why:
Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta. My faith is important to me and, not only did I go to Rome to see her Canonized, but she is my Confirmation Saint! She is also a wonderful model of love for others and if we all just had a little more of her love, the world would be a much better place.
Your favorite thing about South Bend:
I love how much there is to do! With all the restaurants, events, and activities within a short driving distance, possibilities for an adventure are endless!
Your favorite thing about Saint Mary's:
The College is true to its Mission Statement and because of this, there is a wonderful community at the College!
Claire's Admission Tip for Prospective Students
Visit the colleges you are interested in! Without visiting, you will never know exactly what you want in a college including the size and community. Be sure to call ahead to schedule and prepare some questions that you know are vital to your college decision. Also, if it comes down to two (even three) colleges, I encourage setting up an overnight stay! Then you will really get to see what it would be like attend school and help with your decision.