Already Making Change: Hannah Jack

Hannah Jack, Class of 2020, Watertown CT

What are you up to? I’m currently working on finishing my Capstone which is creating an outdoor handicap accessible outdoor classroom in an old, abandoned courtyard. When I was in 7th grade I was physically bullied and ended up missing all of 7th and most of 8th grade. During that time, I spent my days working with the students in the special education classroom as I was unable to read or write from the traumatic brain injury I sustained. I am a full believer that the students I met in that classroom cured me. Their positivity and happiness kept me going to strive to get better. This classroom is dedicated to those students so I can give them the happiness that they gave me over 6 years ago. I have already raised about $400 but am looking to raise a minimum of $2,000 in order to purchase wheelchair accessible tables. I hope to have this classroom all put together before I head off to college in August!

How'd you get here? I have been a resident of Watertown all my life and have loved every second of being a part of the Watertown Public School community. I was extremely active in school as I was a varsity field hockey player, the lead in two WHS musicals, secretary of the National Honor Society, a member of Tri-M Music Honor Society, and I was also the President of Interact Club. This club raised thousands of dollars for Relay for Life which focused on cancer research. I love to get involved in community service which is why choosing my senior capstone was an easy choice.

What are your goals? My goals in the future are creating an outdoor handicap accessible classroom at WHS for everyone to enjoy. I’m going to attend Quinnipiac University in the Fall to major in Health Science and my goal for the future is to be a Neurologist!!

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? Don’t procrastinate!!!

Loading up on Education: Valdrin Sadiku

Valdrin Sadiku, Class of 2009, Prospect, CT

What are you up to? I’m in my final year at The University of Hartford, studying Risk Management and Insurance. I also just started a full-time position at Travelers Insurance in Hartford, CT working in the claims department. I have also been very fortunate to work with a start up company Tauruseer, a Risk Management Platform, for this Spring semester.

How'd you get here? After my high school career was in the books, it was a rough road of working countless hours. I wasn't interested in going to college right after high school, so I moved to Florida in 2010 and worked for a home improvement company loading trucks at Raymond's Building Supply Company. The long physical hours put a big toll on my body, physically and mentally, and I knew that this was not where I wanted to be. I felt that the only solution to make something of myself was to pursue my education again.

After years of being away from school, I finally enrolled to Pasco-Hernando State College in Wesley Chapel, Florida in 2015. I found myself with a new generation of students where I thought I was never going to fit in, but man was I wrong. Joining the institution was a great eye opener for opportunity as well as understanding that age is just a number. In 2017 I received my AA (associates degree). This was just the beginning of a long road in education.

In 2018, I moved back home to Connecticut and had the goal of finishing my education in a well respected university. I chose The University of Hartford to study in the Barney School of Business. By working hard to meet deadlines and to be the best student possible, I achieved membership status in the National Honor Society, which is truly something I thought I would never accomplish.

Just remember that it doesn't matter what your background is or how old you are, the opportunity to grow starts with the will you have in yourself.

What are your goals? I am grateful to be employed and start a career with a well established company at Travelers. I feel this is just a starting point in my career where I can learn the principles of the insurance industry and keep moving forward. I plan to work hard and become an Underwriter or Risk Manager for a well respected firm. The ultimate goal is to own my own business or reach the level of a Vice President in the insurance field. Don't let fear get into the way as risk can be a valuable reward. The sky is the limit, if you want it bad enough.

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? Crack the books harder. Be responsible for your positive outcomes, learn from the negative.

Law Degree in DC: Ellie Miske

Updated Story: Ellie Miske, 2011, Washington, DC

What are you up to since the last time you shared your story? When I shared my story three years ago, I was in law school doing a semester in DC program through UConn School of Law. Since then, I graduated from law school, passed the bar exam, and started a job as an attorney for the National Labor Relations Board in Washington, DC.

How'd you get here since the last time you shared? I connected with as many people as possible during my semester in DC. Even though over two years had passed before I moved back to DC, I stayed in touch with many of the people I met through emails, phone calls, and meeting for lunch when I visited. This helped me secure my current job. I also clerked at the Connecticut Appellate Court for a year after graduation. This allowed me to develop my research and writing skills with one-on-one mentoring from a judge.

What are your goals now? Have they changed? While in law school, I was focused on getting a job doing something I cared about. Now that I have gotten a job in the field that I want, in the place that I want, I am starting to think long term. Do I have a good work-life balance? Do I picture myself here in 5 years? 10 years? More? What do I like about my job? What don't I like about the job? Is it flexible with leave and benefits? Can I work from home? Essentially, my goals have changed in that now I can focus on if my job is right for me long-term, and if not, what I envision for myself in the future.

February 13, 2017: Ellie Miske, Class of 2011, Washington, D.C.

What are you up to? I'm currently in my second year of law school at University of Connecticut Law School. I'm participating in the "Semester in D.C." program. In this program, I'm working on the Judiciary Committee portfolio for Senator Blumenthal. The Judiciary Committee has jurisdiction over federal judges and other issues regarding the federal courts. For example, handling the Attorney General appointee (Jeff Sessions)  hearings, as well as the upcoming hearings for the Supreme Court nomination. I also do a variety of other projects (many of which are regarding current events).

How'd you get here? After graduating from WHS, I went to University of Massachusetts Amherst, where I double majored in Political Science and Women, Gender, Sexuality Studies. I graduated a semester early and interned in the Northwestern District Attorney. I started law school the following fall. 

While in undergrad, I was involved in student government and campus activism. I was working on women's issues such as combatting campus sexual assault and domestic violence. I also worked at our women's center as a rape crisis counselor.

I became interested in law while working on these initiatives. I worked closely with our Title IX Coordinator and Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs. Both of these women had law degrees even though they weren't practicing lawyers. One of my favorite professors at the time also had a law degree. I started talking in depth to these mentors about a law degree and realized how flexible it was. I realized with scholarships (and especially UConn's in-state tuition) this could be an option for me.

What are your goals? I want to work in a position where I am making a difference. I'd love to work in government, public policy, or at a non-profit. I am also interested in labor law and will be working at AFSCME's International headquarters in Washington, D.C. this upcoming summer.

Advice for WHS Students? Don't be afraid to ask to grab lunch or a coffee with people who have jobs that you find interesting. Getting to know people helps you learn what your options are and then when opportunities come up in the future, they'll already have you in mind. "Networking" is a buzz word, but it is also a really helpful skill and the earlier you master it, the more opportunities you will have.

What do you feel grateful for today? I feel grateful that I have been able to continue my education and have had guidance from people who went out of their way to support me. Which is exactly why I want to "pay it forward" and reach out to help any students at WHS who wants to learn more about my career path.

Creating Art and Inspiring Peace: Ashley Guerrera

Ashley Guerrera, Class of 2012, Watertown, CT

What are you up to? I’m currently a Milieu (Crisis) Therapist and Art Therapist at Newport Academy in Bethlehem, Connecticut. I work on the female campus. Newport is an impatient teen residential facilities in which we treat a variety of mental health issues, eating disorders, substance abuse, and trauma.

How'd you get here? Throughout my entire life, art has always been a passion of mine. In high school, I made sure to take all of the art classes Watertown High School provided, including AP Studio Art with Mrs. B. The goal was to build my college art portfolio for art school. After high school, I attended an art school in Portland, Maine, Maine College of Art. I was working on getting my BFA in ceramics. Soon after my freshman year in art school, I realized it wasn’t my purpose and that I wanted to do something more with my career, something that focused on utilizing art to help others. I immediately thought back to Miss. Uryse’s ceramic class; she showed a slide show to the class about art therapy. At that moment, I knew that was what I wanted to do moving forward.

Soon enough, I transferred back home to Connecticut and went to Albertus Magnus College in New Haven. I graduated with my BA in Studio Art and Art Therapy in 2016. During my undergraduate program, I interned at The Harold Leever Cancer Center for my art therapy practicum. I got accepted into the Masters of Art in Art Therapy and Counseling program (MAATC) at Albertus Magnus to get my double masters degree. This program was absolutely amazing ! The best 3 1/2 years I have ever had. I had the opportunity to intern at Oak Hill in West Hartford where I worked with children/teens with intellectual disabilities. Additionally had the opportunity to intern at Harold Leever Regional Cancer Center in Waterbury, Yale New Haven Children's Hospital in New Haven working on the Child Life Unit in the Arts for Healing Program, and a private practice in Bridgeport working with families, children/teens, and adults with a variety of mental health issues.

Right after graduate school, I applied to Newport Academy and was offered my current job as a therapist.

What are your goals? I currently have my associate license (LPCA) and am working to get my LPC and my art therapy license (ATR). My goal one day is to open my own holistic wellness center that provides a wide range of experiential therapies. I also want to get my reki and doula certifications.

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? You will do some amazing things one day. Never doubt yourself and the power you have with your art. You will touch many.

Creating His Own World: Robert Barkow

Robert Barkow, Class of 2016, Brooklyn, New York

What are you up to? I'm a video game developer and the creator of the massive multiplayer adventure Ruinic which is set to release on Steam soon! I currently live in Brooklyn, New York and anything computer related is what I'm up to, whether it be programming, graphic design, or web design!

How'd you get here? After graduating from Watertown High School, I decided to take a gamble and not join the military or go to college so that I could focus on my goals. I continued to work on my computer development projects, which date back to when I was 10 years old. Between then and now, I have taught myself a vast array of computer skills. I was also given the opportunity to work on various projects by other developers, which in return gave me recognition in various communities. In 2018, I was given the opportunity to sign an agreement with VALVE Corporation (which is the developer of the software distribution platform Steam) for my video game Ruinic In November of 2018, 5 days before my 21st birthday, I signed. Soon enough, I realized that investing time into your goals and never caving under pressure will always lead to success.

What are your goals? It has been my goal for as long as I can remember to make a video game that people can enjoy, so I would say I am currently living my goals. However, my main goal right now is to keep developing Ruinic and make sure it's stable for release. I can see myself developing other video games after I finish Ruinic, traveling, or finding a new passion to chase. I’m developing most likely as you're reading this, so great things are being worked on beyond this page!

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? You can never fail, you can succeed and if you don't succeed, then you will learn.

Conquering Goals: Chris Terzigni

Chris Terzigni, Class of 2008, Holliston, MA

What are you up to? I’m currently the principal of Founders Academy, a small charter middle school in Woonsocket, RI. I live in Holliston, MA with my beautiful fiancé, Laura. We relocated back to New England in October after spending the last 10 years in North Carolina, where we both attended school at High Point University.

How'd you get here? After graduating from WHS, I attended High Point University in High Point, NC where I earned a bachelor's and master's degree in Elementary Education. After I graduated, I found a job as a 4th grade teacher. Between then and now, I have taught 4th grade, 6th grade and K-5 STEM. I was also given the opportunity to work outside the classroom as a Personalized Learning Coordinator, where I oversaw the implementation of a one-to-one tablet program for two different middle schools. In 2017, I was given the opportunity to return to school at High Point University on a full-ride scholarship to earn my master's degree in Educational Leadership. I earned my Educational Leadership master's degree in May of 2018. Soon enough, I served as an Assistant Principal at an elementary school in Greensboro, NC before relocating to Massachusetts and accepting my current position as principal.

What are your goals? It has been my goal for as long as I can remember to teach and then to become an administrator, so I would say I am currently living my goals and at a point where I need to start building new goals. I can see myself going back to school to earn my doctorate within the education field and after I have gained some valuable experience, look into leadership roles at a district level. I’m getting married in October of 2020, so starting a family and settling down is definitely on the horizon for me as well.

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? Take more classes that would earn you college credit... college is expensive, the less classes you have to take, the less money it will cost you. :-)

Drawing Young Blood to Radio: Caitlin Duffy

Caitlin Duffy, Class of 2011, Middletown, CT

What are you up to? I’m in the medical field where I am a licensed phlebotomist. I currently work in a gastroenterology practice (stomach & intestinal doctor) where I assist with blood draws, as well as medical records and billing. In addition, I am active in the Connecticut arts community and host my very own radio show on WMRD 1150AM, Middletown, Connecticut’s grassroots station. I play an eclectic mix in the same vein as I did on college radio. My hope is to use an old-school platform to elevate musical voices close to my community. I like to keep my ear to the floor by attending community jazz and classical concerts.

How'd you get here? I hold a Bachelor of Arts in French from Drew University from which I graduated in 2015. I was going to pursue a Master's in Teaching but gratefully discovered that public education isn’t my arena. For now, I am focused on developing a lucrative career with the skills I have. In the future, I will travel to France to work. The late Madame Mary Jane Miller was a huge influence on me. She was my favorite French teacher and helped shaped who I am in a critical time of my life. She inspired me to pursue my passions regardless of how others felt about them, or of how I come across. She helped me find confidence in being quirky which I have carried with me throughout adulthood.

What are your goals? I have plans to take classes in the fall for medical billing and coding so that I can further develop my skills and reach my financial goals. As for radio, WWUH and WESU are on my radio as potential platforms to share my taste for Northeastern, US music. My hope is to interview more local musicians and elevate their work to a broader audience, namely young people who wouldn't normally think to "tune in" to local radio. Please see any of my shows on demand on wliswmrd.net!

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? Forget about the haters, we all end up going off and doing our own thing anyway.

Professor of Music: Steve Leisring

Steve Leisring, Class of 1981,  Lawrence, Kansas

What are you up to? I am currently Professor of Music, School of Music, The University of Kansas (Jayhawks) Lawrence, KS.

I teach Applied Trumpet, and courses that go along with it such as brass pedagogy, chamber music, and orchestral repertoire. My students are music majors who play trumpet as their main instrument who are majoring in Music Education, Music Therapy, Performance, Composition, and Jazz. My current students have come to Kansas from 10 states and Puerto Rico, as well as 4 countries, including China, Afghanistan, South Korea, and Costa Rica.

Most people do not know that a professor's role at a Research 1 institution like KU goes far beyond teaching. Only 40% of my contract is teaching. This is typical at major flagship universities. 20% is Service to the university such as committees or recruiting, and 40% is Research, or, in the case of an Applied Music Professor, it is Creative Activity. My Creative Activity is musical performance. Since coming to KU in 2003, I have performed and taught in 17 countries, including in more than 20 cities and universities in China. In the last two years, I have performed and/or taught in Spain, Estonia, Poland, Italy, Switzerland, France, China and Taiwan. Highlights of my career: performances as soloists with symphony orchestras and bands in China, performing with the National Orchestra of Spain in October of 2019 in Madrid; 100 performances with the Kansas City Symphony including the National Anthem at Game 6 of the 2014 World Series; twice featured at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, Umbria Jazzfest in Italy, "Jazz en Vienne", France; Kennedy Center; with the Tokyo Symphony in Japan; performing in Sidney Australia; and with Ellis and Delfeayo Marsalis at Tanglewood in MA. In 2015, was given my greatest honor from my former WHS Band Director, Robert Pettinichi, who nominated me for the Wall of Honor at WHS, and was selected.

How'd you get here? After high school graduation, I spent 6 years getting degrees in Music Education and Performance at the University of North Texas, followed by a Master's degree in Orchestral Performance at the Mannes College of Music, New School University in NYC. Immediately after, I was chosen for a position in the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra, Canary Islands, Spain, where I was from 1989-2003. While in Spain, began teaching a lot, played about 100 concerts a year and performed at two World Expos, in Sevilla '92 and Lisbon '98; recorded about 25 CDs; performed all over Spain, and in London, Germany etc. I also re-lived high school life playing semi-pro baseball in Spain's top baseball league for 3 years. I was selected for tenure-track position at the University of Kansas in 2003, after an international search.

What are your goals? I want to continue as a music professor, and hopefully continue to be performing in new countries and return to others. I’m excited to be judging a competition in Lviv, Ukraine in March 2020 and also returning to the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki Finland to teach, as well as Poland and Central Conservatory in Beijing China, where I have taught almost each of the last 15 years. I’d like to continue to help students from all over reach their dreams. I am happy to respond to any WHS students with questions about music in college.

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? Find someone who is doing what you want to do, and talk to them about it. Most people don’t end up doing exactly what they studied in college. The best thing to do is follow your passions. There are so many more careers out there that are connected to your passions that you can’t possibly know about in high school. Do not be afraid to leave. Look outside of your area for college, the Midwest and West are very different places and may offer great opportunities for study. I was so lucky a former Little League coach suggested I look West. It was the best decision for me to go to college outside of Connecticut. Be serious, work hard toward toward your passions and it will work out.

Music and Massage: Linda Norton

Linda Norton, Class of 2004, Watertown, CT

What are you up to? I’m 34 years old and I’m a licensed massage therapist for the state of CT for 8 years. I’m the owner of Relaxing Getaway Massage at 621 Main St. in Watertown, which I established 2 years ago. Currently, I’m also a member of The Hartford Chorale. I’ve been a second soprano with them for 2 years now.

Also, I’m an auntie to eight nieces and nephews, one step-niece, and one-step nephew. Pictured is my niece Isabella (Bella) & I at a Taylor Swift concert. We are both big fans!

How'd you get here? I have been singing in school choirs since second grade and I was a member of WHS choir from 2000-2004. I went to Naugatuck Valley Community College and joined their choir and opera society ensemble. While pursuing my associates degree in Liberal Arts, I also attended music classes (music theory, ear training, etc).

What are your goals? I would love to be a member of a Glee Club, where they sing radio and broadway hits and gives members a chance to have solos or duets.

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? Be in the moment!

Teacher and Brewer: Kari McCarthy

Kari McCarthy, Class of 2006, Waterbury, CT

What are you up to? I’m currently living in Waterbury, married, and I just had my first child. I have been a science teacher for 8 years. I’m currently teaching 7th grade science in Woodbury.

How'd you get here? Life came full circle. I wrote in my Senior year book that my ambition was to be a science teacher and that’s exactly what I did. I went to CCSU and got my Bachelors in Earth Science (Geology) and my Masters+ credits in education at the University of Bridgeport. I was able to move to my current teaching job in Woodbury because of my internship. A lot of my career path moved forward because of one person that I met, who led me to my job in Fairfield and then to my job in Woodbury.

What are your goals? My husband and I are in the works of owning and operating our own brewery. We are avid home brewers and we are now looking to open our own place. I love the science behind brewing! I loved teaching (emphasis on the past tense). I had made up my mind in high school that I wanted to be a teacher. I did it. Loved it. But now I want more for my life. Now that I’m “adulting” and seeing life as it really is, teaching is not so much for me. I’m looking to do something that will make a greater impact in my life. My husband and I feel that we can impact the community through our business and that’s what really excites me today!

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? You don’t need to decide what the rest of your life looks like right now. If you know, then pursue it and pursue it to your greatest capacities. If you don’t, that’s okay too, explore and experiment, you have your whole life ahead of you. Don’t settle! (Both personally and professionally!)

Unapologetically Herself: Karina Sorensen

Karina Sorensen, Class of 2014, Oakville, CT

What are you up to? I am currently in my second year of school working towards my Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling at Albertus Magnus in New Haven (I LOVE this program) while working part-time at Images Studio in Watertown (and I LOVE this work family). I'm still involved with my own art on the side, including being hired to draw portraits (both humans and animals!). I also just had my artwork displayed at Hawk Ridge Winery for the month of October as their featured artist of the month! All of my work is at www.karinasorensen.com and on my Facebook page @artsmudges.

How'd you get here? I started out at Naugatuck Valley Community College, which I wasn't sure about at first, but I saved a TON of money and it gave me more time to figure out what I wanted to do. After I got my Associates Degree, I went to Western Connecticut State University to get my Bachelors in Art with a minor in Psychology.

During high school, Mrs. Ciampi had suggested art therapy to me. But at the time, I wanted to do something else and I kinda forgot about it. When my undergraduate career was coming to an end and I had to decide what was next, art therapy came back to my mind. I've loved art since day one and I've always been fascinated with psychology since I took AP Psych with O'C, and I know I'm on this planet to help others. So...it's really a perfect fit.

What are your goals? My goal right now is to finish this program, get my Masters, and begin my career! I really can't wait for my future as an art therapist. I'm not yet sure what that will look like, but I know I'm excited. I still have another 2 years in the program and I don't start internship until next year - but once I do, I hope to have a better idea of which population(s) I want to work with most. Art therapy is truly a remarkable profession - helping people work through their deepest traumas via creative expression is unlike anything else and I cannot wait to continue experiencing and learning everything it has to offer.

I also hope to further my art commissions. I've illustrated portraits, designed tattoos, created gifts, you name it...I absolutely love creating, and I love being able to create something special for someone! (Contact Karina here if you are interested in a commission)

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? Be unapologetically confident, loud, and yourself. It is a waste to care about what others think and to not spend every second you can being yourself.

Nurse Emily

Emily Cusick, Class of 2013, Providence, RI -> Walpole, MA

What are you up to since the last time you shared your story? I left Watertown, moved to Nashville, moved to Providence, and now will be moving to Walpole, MA this month! I’m currently a registered nurse for the Thoracic Surgery Department at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

How'd you get here since the last time you shared? I accepted a job at Vanderbilt Medical Center and moved to Nashville six weeks after graduating college. Starting over in a brand new city with a brand new job was very intimidating, but I had found my new niche. I lived there for two years and was lucky enough to work with some pretty amazing people. I was able to experience a different way of life in Nashville and it will always have a piece of my heart. However, as much as I loved it, I was also in a long distance relationship and couldn’t wait to finally come home. I have been living in Providence, RI since May but commuting to work in Boston from there while working the night shift is definitely not ideal, so my boyfriend and I will be moving to Walpole at the end of the month!

What are your goals now? Have they changed? I have always been focused on what comes next, so for now I’m learning to live in the present. I’m finally working in Boston and living with my boyfriend which was the ultimate end goal. I still want to work in the Emergency Department and go back to school, but it’ll happen when it happens. If there’s anything I’ve learned these past two years is to let go of the need to have control over everything and just see where life takes you, you’ll get to where you’re supposed to be.

Emily Cusick, Class of 2013, Fairfield, CT

June 2016 Story

What are you up to?  I am currently a rising senior in the nursing program at Sacred Heart University. I play the tenor saxophone in the university band and I am a member of the Delta Zeta sorority. I've been working in the General Surgery unit at Stamford Hospital for a year now, and I just accepted a position in the Emergency Department at Saint Mary's Hospital!

How'd you get here? After lots of laughs, tears, and hard work, I'm finally one year away from becoming a Registered Nurse. I love that I've gotten experience in the hospital prior to graduation, it's definitely given me more confidence in the field that I'm going into. I've put in a lot of time into studying and clinical hours and I'm excited to see it all pay off.

What are your goals? I hope to one day be a nurse in the Emergency Department, and to later continue my education and become a Doctor of Nursing Practice. I've had amazing learning experiences both inside the classroom and at clinical, and hope to eventually become a nursing professor at a university.

Advice for WHS Students? Time goes by faster as every year of school goes by. Don't wish away your time and always live in the moment. Embrace new opportunities, you'll never know what kind of experiences you'll have or what friends you will make along the way until you try something new. Travel as much as you can, you won't regret it!

What is your favorite snack food? Chips and guacamole for sure, or anything that I can put hot sauce on.

How Art Connects with Medicine: Lindsey Parenteau

Lindsey Parenteau-Oshel, Class of 2011, Jacksonville, Florida Updated Story

What are you up to since the last time you shared your story? Since I last shared my story, I graduated with my Masters in Occupational Therapy and moved to North Florida to live with my husband as he pursues his career. A job offer came up for an OT in the school system, and I could not resist. I currently work as a school based OT specifically with kids in elementary schools. A typical day for me in the school generally goes with seeing students with ALL types of disabilities either for individual time or in a small group to work on different goals that help them to be successful and as functional as possible in class and throughout the school day. Typical goals we usually address focus on helping with handwriting skills, cutting skills, transitions between classrooms, attention during seated classwork, and self care tasks like dressing or opening containers during lunch. Often times, my job involves providing teachers various adaptations to skills such as writing with different pencils or grips, using adapted paper with lines and colors, providing assistive technology like ipads or eye gaze devices to assist with reading/writing or providing resources on sensory strategies to allow students to have movement breaks and increase attention. All in all, I love every aspect of my job especially getting to use fun crafts and games to allow my students to be as successful as possible.

How'd you get here since the last time you shared? Last time I shared, I was just getting started in the OT field while in graduate school. I truly did not even know what it meant to be a therapist because my only experience was through book learning and teacher lectures. Since then, I've become a licensed "OT" in Florida and have gained so much experience out in the field learning more than ever being hands on. Initially, I started work at a Skilled Nursing Facility helping various patients that have had injuries/illnesses such as strokes, dementia, knee replacements, etc. gain independence back to their daily lives. The work was fast paced and typically you would only work with a patient for a few weeks and they would go home. This job was not the route I had envisioned for my career and sought out to find my true passion, working with kids.

What are your goals now? Have they changed? My goals and to try to get through this first school year as successful as possible and hope that I did a good enough job to be picked up for more school years to come. My goals have definitely changed as I see the realistic side of actual work and adulthood living on my own with my husband far away from Nashville. I still think some day it would be amazing to have my own clinic for kids to come and receive therapy, and maybe 30-40 years from now, become a professor to teach the next generation of therapist. But for right now, I'm keeping my goals to being the best I can be right now for the students I current have everyday.

Lindsey Parenteau, 2011, Nashville, TN September 20 2016

What are you up to? I am currently enrolled in the Masters of Occupational Therapy program at Tennessee State University. I was 1 out of 30 students chosen from a pool of 500 applicants for the program, so I am still in shock and very thankful. What is occupational therapy, you ask? Well, it can help you get back into your work or job, but it can also be much more than that. Occupational therapy is the therapeutic use of everyday activities or occupations that are meaningful to the patient to promote independence in function. The profession works with all age groups and many different types of disabilities, both physical and mental.

How'd you get here? I have always loved art and music but I also knew I wanted to use my time helping others and making an impact in their lives, specifically children. As I was choosing my future profession, I tried my best to pick something that incorporated both of those aspects I enjoyed. Luckily, OT focuses on using crafts and participation as a type of therapy, so I knew it was the perfect route to go for me. I graduated from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with a Bachelor of Science degree in Rehabilitation Science. OT is a very competitive field so I had to work hard to keep up a high GPA so that I could be accepted into a graduate program.

What are your goals? My number one goal is to get through the program so I can get started with my career. Once I get my Masters of Occupational Therapy, my dream is to become a traveling OT and pick up contracts around the around the globe. I couldn't pass up such an amazing career opportunity that allows me to travel and get paid at the same time.

Advice for WHS Students? If you have a dream or goal that seems unreachable or unrealistic, don't give up on it. Make it achievable.  I went a direction that allowed me to incorporate art and creativity in a purposeful way. I still get to do what I love everyday, but I choose a path that allowed me to grow and have a stable career that I truly enjoy.

If you could travel anywhere tomorrow, where would you go? I would go to London, England in a heartbeat!

Training for Adventure: Kristin Mabry

Kristin Mabry, Class of 2013, San Dimas, CA

What are you up to? I’m currently living in California. I road tripped here from my hometown, Watertown, CT in 2018. I’m a personal trainer and nanny as well. I am working hard every day to grow my own personal business in personal training in hopes to be a successful entrepreneur that allows me to travel the world and take work with me wherever I go. My aspiration is to inspire others to feel empowered to be their best selves physically, mentally, and emotionally.

How'd you get here? I came to California because my boyfriend lives here and we were doing long distance for a while. I decided to make the move when I felt like it was ready to take the next step. I also also dreamed of living in California and it all seemed like a dream coming true. ALWAYS trust in your journey, through the good and the bad. God works in amazing ways and everything happens for a reason, don't rush it.

What are your goals? Ah jeez, I have too many! I plan to be successful as a health and fitness coach sharing my passion for helping others around the world. I have met some INCREDIBLE people along my journey that helped me become better every day. I also want to travel the world, have a healthy and happy family one day, and to open my own gym (way in the future) once life settles down after adventure,

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? RELAX. Things don't need to be planned out. You never know what life will throw you way and it's important to enjoy each day and live in the moment. Don't rush growing up, it's not as free or fun as you may think. Looking back, high school was one of the BEST times in my life. I wish I enjoyed it more rather than wanting to get out so quickly. You only have these moments and days ONE time, so soak it in and ENJOY.

Life Throws You Curveballs: Shelby Iava

Shelby Iava, Class of 2013, Watertown, CT

What are you up to since the last time you shared your story? Well, my career path has taken a total 180, but I guess that happens! Currently I work in Human Resources at Waterbury Hospital.

How'd you get here since the last time you shared your story? Once I graduated from college I was on the immediate job hunt just like everyone else. That very same summer I was offered my first job as a sports reporter! It was amazing and I was on cloud 9. And, not to mention, I was the only female sports reporter for the entire company, which covered two daily newspapers. But unfortunately college doesn't prepare you as well as you would think. Although I loved what I did, the company was less than ideal. That being said, I stuck it out for a year and a half and got out! It just goes to show, even though you think you have your life planned out, it doesn't always work that way, but it's okay. I love where I'm at with life and couldn't be more happier.

What are your goals now? Have they changed? For right now my goals are just to try to strive to be the best that I can each and everyday. I hope I dabble back into reporting eventually, there are aspects of it that I miss, a lot! But for the time being I’m just going to let life happen.

Shelby Iava, Class of 2013, Keene, NH, June 21, 2016 A Senior and Sports Editor

What are you up to? I'm currently entering my senior year of college at Keene State College. I'm going into my senior year, but I have already finished my Bachelors of Arts in Journalism. 

How'd you get here? After driving through almost every state in New England to get to school, there's not a doubt in my mind that I would change anything. Over these past few years at Keene, I've managed to work with almost every single type of news outlet there is (from newspaper to TV). I have been involved in our award winning newspaper The Equinox, and this year, I will be the sports editor. I have also worked behind the scenes and anchored for KSC-TV.

What are your goals? My goals? Jeeze, I barely know what I'm going to have for dinner. I would love to be able to work in the sports industry for a little while, ESPN and all that jazz. Later on down the road, I would love to work for a magazine or maybe travel the world, get a glimpse at what is out there. I'd love to use my degree to show everyone that not all media is mainstream/untrue and that some of it is actually the truth.

Advice for WHS Students? My advice, time moves faster than you think, especially the older you get. Enjoy the time you have now and don't hold anything back. Cliché, I know, but it's the truth. Also, keep your true friends by your side, because no matter who you are, or where you go, people will come and go, but thats life and your true friends will be there by your side. When one door closes, another one is just about to open.

What is your favorite color? My favorite color is red.

Just Graduated and Ambitious: Callie Egan

Callie Egan, Class of 2018, Watertown

What are you up to? Currently in training to be a PCA at Waterbury Hospital and going to school for nursing.

How'd you get here? I got here with the help of the CNA course that I took during high school and the help of many teachers/family members that told me, if I want to do something then don’t give up and strive to do exactly what you want.

What are your goals? My goals are to test and apply for the nursing program after Fall of 2019 and get into the nursing program for Fall of 2020!

It's the Simple Things: Lauren Vail Parenteau

Lauren Parenteau, Class of 2011, Watertown, NY

What are you up to? I am currently living in upstate New York with my husband. He is in the military and stationed here at Ford Drum. While I am living my life as a military spouse, I continue my path of elementary education and substitute at the local and surrounding school districts. The plans are to move back to CT in the next year or so. Although this has been an exciting adventure, we are looking forward to moving back and being with family and friends.

How'd you get here? I got where I am today with the help and guidance of some amazing friends and family. I have always had to drive to educate and work with children. From the age of 6, I played school with my dolls and had all the excitement of the first day of school. I like to think that my passion of education stems from my anxiety growing up. I struggled with anxiety at the beginning of 5th grade and looking back I can see how school staff and certain teachers were supportive of me and provided me with the tools to move forward. Going to college at CCSU, I focused on becoming the best teacher for my students, whatever that was to them. For some students, I’m a mom, a friend, or even someone to talk to. Quickly after graduation, I moved up to NY to be with my husband to support him during his contract with the military, just as he supported me through college.

What are your goals? My goals are to move back to CT, buy a home, build my career, and start a family. The typical family sitcom.

Lauren Vail, Class of 2011, Watertown, CT July 19, 2016

What are you up to? What am I up to? Oh boy. I am still in school. I am studying Elementary Education at Central, so I guess you can say I'll be in school for the rest of my life. While going to school, I work at the local Staples as a copy center associate, making copies for a living. So if you ever need a good copy, just ask for me! I have an amazing boyfriend who helps me get through the stress of work and school. He's my rock, as corny as that may be to say.

How'd you get here? It's crazy to say that going to school is what made me want to become a teacher. I suffered from severe anxiety growing up and I got bullied for that. I never really had a teacher that made me feel comfortable about my disorder, so I decided to become that teacher. Many kids are suffering from severe anxiety and many adults don't understand how to cope. I'd like to be the teacher that students feel comfortable talking to.

What are your goals? My goals are typical: Get a great job, marry the love of my life, and live a happy life. I'm not looking to move to the city or become America's Next Top Model. I want the simple things in life.

Advice for WHS Students? Cherish the moments. I can say there's a lot of things I wish I did back in high school, and I do have regrets. So here are some tips...

1. Don't get hung up on one boy. 
2. One true friend is better than 10 "friends".
3. Become friends with the teachers....they are the one grading your papers! 
4. Join an art class!
5. Don't be stressed about college! Apply to the ones you really want to go to. 
6. And lastly, don't hesitate to reach for what you want! Go for it!

What are the ingredients for a perfect day? The ingredients for a perfect day are: happiness, loved ones, fun adventures, and laughter.

Pharma Life: Jennifer Donato

Jennifer Donato, Class of 2011, Nottingham, MD

What are you up to? At this moment, I will be starting my career as a clinical pharmacist at Frederick Memorial Hospital in Frederick, MD and will be taking an exam to transfer my Connecticut Pharmacist License to Maryland so I can practice in the state of Maryland.

How'd you get here? I graduated from the University of Saint Joseph School of Pharmacy in May 2018. A short month and a half later, I started my post graduate year one (PGY1) pharmacy residency at St. Vincent's Medical Center (SVMC) in Bridgeport, CT. During residency I gained a ton of experience in different areas of clinical pharmacy within the hospital. After 3 months had gone by, I had to decide what I wanted to do when this residency program was over. In November/December 2018 I had decided to apply to various hospitals across the country for a post graduate year 2 (PGY2) pharmacy residency program in critical care. While applying to the various hospitals, I could tell my heart was not in it although I loved my critical care and emergency medicine rotations at SVMC. I did not receive any interviews from the programs I had applied to and not only did I notice but my mentor at SVMC had noticed I was not heart broken over the rejections. With the help from my mentor, I had decided to finish residency with a positive attitude and see where life would take me. And that's when I decided to move to Maryland when residency was over to start my career and my life too, since my boyfriend was already residing there.

What are your goals? My future goals are to become a board certified pharmacist in pharmacotherapy and to continue to grow as a clinical pharmacist.

Jennifer Donato, 2011, Oakville, CT - January 17, 2018

What are you up to? Currently, I am in my last year of pharmacy school at the University of Saint Joseph School of Pharmacy in Downtown Hartford. This program is unlike a traditional pharmacy school where you do 2 years of pre-pharmacy and 4 years of pharmacy; instead at USJ SOP, you must received a bachelors degree prior to being accepted and then do 3 full calendar years of pharmacy. I am also in the process of applying to pharmacy residency programs.

How'd you get here? After graduating from WHS, I attended at the University of Bridgeport and received my bachelors of science in health sciences. Unlike a lot of people who I knew in high school, I knew that I wanted to do something in the healthcare profession, specifically pharmacy. So during my time at UB, I took prerequisites for pharmacy school, along with your general education courses, and courses in health sciences. It was super stressful applying to pharmacy school because I had to maintain a pretty high GPA in order to be competitive, my personal statement needed to be unique, and if the school was interested in me, I had to go through an interview process. And as a young adult at the time, I had never had to go through a professional interview. While going to school, I also had a part time job at ShopRite Pharmacy in Southbury. This job really solidified the fact that I wanted to go to pharmacy school and become a pharmacist. By March 2015, I knew I was accepted into USJ SOP and was excited to continue on the journey towards a rewarding career.

What are your goals? My goals for the future is to become a clinical pharmacist in a hospital. I would love to be board certified in critical care, where I can work in an ICU. This would require me to do two years of residency.

What has been your biggest challenge? My biggest challenge was during my junior year of college. At UB they have a contract with UCONN where I could apply to their pharmacy school and I'd be looked at as a UCONN student rather than an outsider applying to their program. At the time, I did apply, but unfortunately did not get an interview. Although this may not seem like a challenge to most, I was devastated and had to decide whether or not I wanted to try again the following year and earn a bachelors degree as well. If this didn't happen to me, I wouldn't be where I am today.

What has been your happiest moment? My happiest moment was this past September/October. I was in Arizona/New Mexico for school, working at Gallup Indian Medical Center. This hospital is for Navajo Native Americans who live on the reservation. They are underserved and struggle everyday. At this hospital, there are pharmacy run clinics where the pharmacists see the patients and change medication therapy depending on what clinic the pharmacist is working in. The clinics ranges from diabetes to asthma clinic, as well as anticoagulation (blood thinner) clinic to HIV clinic. I also had the opportunity to live on the reservation. It was definitely a culture shock. There is nothing for miles around and some people are still live without running water or electricity. It was a meaningful experience to understand how the Navajo people live. On a positive note, I did get to do some traveling and see parts of the United States that I didn't think I would ever be able to see.

Advice for WHS Students? If you know what you want to do right out of high school, go for it! It might not be easy and you may not succeed right away, but in the end it will be worth it. Work hard and don't let others bring you down for wanting to do something different. This is your life and you only get one of them.

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? Confidence is something that you gain over time.

Success, One Step At A Time: Allison Tortorici

Allison Tortorici , 2009, Waterbury, CT

What are you up to? I am currently working part time at Marshalls in Watertown and attending Post University’s online program. I am finishing my bachelor’s in Psychology after I was forced to drop put of UConn in 2011. I live with my boyfriend and my cat in a condo that we rent. I lead an average life that doesn’t sound like anything exciting, but I’ve come to appreciate stability and the simplicities of life.

How'd you get here? When I graduated from Watertown High in 2009, I chose the traditional path of going to college. I had always been a smart person and school came very easy to me. I was always told “You are so smart, you can do whatever you want!” I had always had a passion for helping those struggling with mental illness. For me, psychology was the only option for my future career. Unfortunately, in 2010, I began experiencing symptoms of Schizophrenia. In the matter of a week my whole world came crashing down. I was hospitalized and completely lost touch with reality. It was the scariest experience of my life and I completely lost my confidence. Once I regained control of my mind, depression set in. My intelligence and drive didn’t matter, I felt I was failing at life. I had to drop out of school and temporarily leave my full time job. At one point, my illness became so unbearable that I entered a program where I resided for 7 months. There, I learned coping skills to manage my anxiety and symptoms which helped me greatly when reentering the world. I also met the love of my life in the program and we have been together for 5 years now. My story is not of a glamorous career or a super successful job. For me, my success is measured in how far I have come mentally. Being able to manage a daily living was something I thought I’d never accomplish, but here I am, managing a part time job, my home, and school.

What are your goals? My goal for the future are to, in a small way, break down the stigma surrounding mental illness. Schizophrenia can happen to anyone, and symptoms go unnoticed until young adult years (how convenient, right?). Right now I am focusing on getting my bachelor’s degree so I can work with others suffering from mental illness. When it comes to the brain, so much is unknown, and inability to control your brain is the most terrifying phenomenon. I hope that I can help just one person, in any way, that is dealing with a family member with mental illness, or struggling with mental illness themselves. I believe our purpose in life is to help one another, and those suffering from a disease that they can’t control need an enormous amount of help. Eventually, I’d like to become an APRN and own my own practice, but for now I am taking one small step at a time.

What has been your biggest challenge? My biggest challenge in life has been accepting my illness for what it is, and moving forward. I spent so much time comparing myself to former alumni I had grown up with but our lives weren’t comparable. Social media can cause a lot of doubt because we are constantly only posting the good in our lives. I finally am able to accept where I am in life, and appreciate how far I’ve come. I am thankful for my illness because it caused me to refocus my life and regain my passion for psychology. It is a beautiful thing to appreciate the chaos that has shaped you.

What has been your happiest moment? My happiest moment was moving into our condo with my boyfriend. It sounds corny but when we met we were at the lowest points in our lives. Creating a stable and happy home for us has been the best part of my life thus far.

Advice for WHS Students: My advice for WHS students would be to not give up when your life doesn’t go as planned. I thought my life would be simple! Go to college, graduate, get a job, etc. We can’t plan for what life has in store for us so just go with it! It may not be what you wanted or how you planned for things to go, but it is your life. It is your story. Own it and learn from every curveball life throws at you.

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? Don’t stress about everything! Everything works out the way it is supposed to. Let go and have faith.

Adding up the Moments: Angela Hughes

Angela Hughes, Class of 2015, Watertown, CT

What are you up to? I have always told myself that everyone embarks on his or her own journey through life and develops an unforgettable story. So here is mine - I am officially beginning my new career as a Tax Accountant for Crowe, LLP in October of 2019. Since graduating high school, everything has been so different than what I had expected. As of December 2018, I have obtained a Bachelors in Accounting, Business Administration, and a Certification in Forensic Accounting from Post University in Waterbury, CT. 

Aside from my career journey, I have been a dedicated dance teacher for 8 years as an Associate Teacher and Choreographer at Powerhouse Dance Academy. I also run my own food page (Homemade For You) on Facebook & Instagram for recipes, pictures, and more!

How'd you get here? To me, moments are not bought, they are earned. At the heart of every moment is the effort you have put in to make it real. Every moment of my college career thus far has contributed to the business woman I am aspiring to be. 

On a late night in 2015, right after graduating high school, my mom and I found ourselves struggling to get out of our burning home due to someone’s reckless actions. Shortly after this tragedy, I began my college journey at UCONN. After my first semester, I was at a point where I was struggling in my personal life while also being unhappy at my university and in my field of study. I thought to myself that I needed to reevaluate my goals and make a change so I could find my passion in life. 

I don’t have a simple answer as to why I want to be an accountant. Ever since I can remember, I aspired to be a 4th grade Mathematics teacher and never thought twice about it. Dance was always my passion, therefore I thought because I enjoyed teaching dance that I would want to do it every day. My dad somehow always found a way to incorporate “I’m telling you, try accounting, I think you’re really going to like it” into our daily dinner conversations, but I never listened. When I started college as a pre-teaching major at UCONN in 2015, I decided to reevaluate my goals and make a change. I wanted to separate my career from my passion of dance and cooking because they were things that I did in my spare time and have an amazing time doing. One aspect of my journey that has constantly motivated me to never give up is my mom and dad. The bond that my parents and I have created has shown me the true definition of selflessness and passion. Growing up, I was taught if you want something, you need to work hard for it and eventually everything will pay off in the end. So that is what I did when I transferred to Post University, I didn’t give up.

What are your goals? My goal is to get the most of every chance I am given to help someone else. It isn’t about how much you keep for yourself, but how much you pour into others. My ambition in life, after much thought and consideration, is to become someone that I am proud of. As an accounting major, I am an aspiring Certified Public Accountant. But, there are a lot of other goals that I hope to accomplish in life, and think that one should never limit themselves. Having a family to build memories with, creating a successful food business, being a proud dance teacher, and growing as an accountant are all moments I hope to experience.

If you could tell your high school self one thing, what would it be? If I could tell my high school self one thing, it would have to be that there is no direct route to your future. Consider yourself to have an imagined future that is filled with some moments that are currently unknown, some that might be unexpected. But, at the end of the day, they will shape who you are and what you can share with the world. There is not one moment that defines you, but a bunch of little ones that make you special and successful.