Sure, I graduated from Bellarmine in 2024. I’m currently a sophomore at the University of Arizona, majoring in Fashion and Business Administration with a focus on Merchandising. I’m exploring opportunities to combine my interests in fashion and entrepreneurship because my long-term goal is to launch my own fashion business.  

I have furthered my experience and gained an understanding of the industry by modeling for major brands such as Nike and Nordstrom as well as some emerging start-up companies.  I also completed an internship at a clothing boutique and worked for a major clothing retailer, which gave me firsthand insight into fashion marketing and customer engagement. 

Recently, I was accepted into the prestigious University of Arizona’s Eller School of Business Sales Club, which focuses on developing professional sales skills, networking, participating in sales competitions, service projects, and hosting guest speakers from the industry. 

Yes, Father Jerry (Chapdelaine) was very influential during my time at Bellarmine. I had the privilege of meeting with him on many occasions. Father Jerry was so kind and his wisdom and genuine care for others inspired me to strive for excellence and approach life with empathy and faith. His passing reminded me of how important it is to carry those lessons forward. 

Yes, I participated in several service opportunities, including food donation drives and volunteering with the Boys and Girls Club. For several years I also participated, along with my parents, in a community event that paired under privileged children with local law-enforcement for a holiday shopping spree. These experiences taught me the importance of giving back and connecting with my community. 

As a current member of Alpha-Phi Sorority, I continue to stay involved through various community service projects, which have strengthened my leadership skills and sense of purpose. 

Since graduating from Bellarmine, I’m proud of several accomplishments that reflect my personal growth. I’ve saved and purchased a car, which taught me discipline and financial responsibility. I went through recruitment and was accepted into a sorority, where I’ve had the opportunity to live in a house on Greek Row with 66 other young women. Needless to say, I’ve learned about community and compromise. I also learned about leadership on the other side of recruitment where I organized events and interviewed potential candidates. 

I was honored to be chosen by the sorority to represent the chapter as their Sorority Sister of the Month. This helped me develop confidence, communication, and networking skills. Each of these experiences challenged me but also helped me grow as a person. 

Yes, my favorite school tradition was the Junior Encounters Retreat. The experience focused on personal growth, faith, and community.  By participating in these activities and reflections, I gained a better understanding of myself and the importance of building meaningful connections with others. 

My time at school taught me lessons that go far beyond the classroom. Through faith-based learning, service opportunities, and the guidance of teachers like Father Jerry, I learned the importance of empathy, integrity, and community. Those lessons have stayed with me and continue to guide how I live, learn, and work toward goals. 

I also learned resilience. Our class started high school during the pandemic, a time of fear and uncertainty for many if not all of us, but we adapted and prospered with the help of our faith, teachers, family, and friends. Go Lions!!!

I would tell current students to keep Jesuit values alive by seeking opportunities to help and serve others, staying true to themselves, and being mindful of choices they make. I would also tell current students to embrace diversity and be open to other cultures to make connections with people from all walks of life. I am reminded of Mr.  Nilsen, my former science teacher who taught at Bellarmine for over 50 years, and his speech at our graduation.  He showed us photos of his travels from all over the world and reminded us that we are one world, one people. He also shared the following: “What you do matters, and in a world where you can be anything, be kind.” I think this is great advice for current students beyond high school!