Japan was Not Part of the Plan: Christine Bradshaw

Christine Bradshaw, Class of 2012, Yamato, Kanagawa, Japan

What are you up to? I am currently a live-in nanny for an American military family in Japan. So basically, I hang out with 4 of the cutest kids Monday through Friday and get paid for it. The oldest are home schooled, so I help with their schooling as well. Not a bad gig. When I'm not nannying I'm also a private English tutor. And when I'm not doing either of those I'm trying to navigate through Japan without getting lost.

How'd you get here? This past summer after graduating, I was a live-in nanny for part of the summer for a family living in the DC area. I had the best time ever. I got to live in a new area and explore DC, but unlike the 8th grade trip, I actually absorbed some of the significance. While nannying I was applying to every teaching job under the sun. I was determined to use my degree in elementary education to be a teacher right after graduation. In the beginning I didn't have much luck. Eventually I did receive a couple of job offers, but they were either not where I wanted to be or in a grade/setting I didn't want to work in. Fears of not having a job I loved, or worse (having to move back home) set in. I thought that maybe I should look into nannying because I really enjoyed myself while doing it. So the mother I was nannying for posted a Facebook status asking if anyone needed a nanny. Sure enough, she got a few responses and a few emails later my flight was booked for Japan.

What are your goals? I have no idea. Seriously, I thought about it and I really don't know. I'm kind of taking everything a year at a time because who knows what life will look like a year from now and where I'll be. Oh, but I definitely want to own a bunch of dogs and travel a bunch but no real adult goals yet.

Advice for WHS Students? You don't have to follow the path everyone else is taking. It was really hard for me a first to delay going into teaching because I thought that was what I was supposed to do. I stopped trying to live by a plan. Now I'm living in a new country, learning so many new things and I'm so happy I did it. Take risks, seize opportunities and blaze your own path. Life definitely doesn't go as planned.

If you could travel anywhere tomorrow, where would you go? Galápagos Islands

Software Engineer and Underwater Investigator: Joseph Adamski

Joseph Adamski, Class of 2009, Newington, CT

What are you up to? I am currently working as a software engineer at HYPACK in Middletown, which was a small start up company that was bought out by a Fortune 500. The software we develop deals with the field of hydrography, such as using echo sounders in order to generate maps of the ocean bottom. Most of my time is spent working on magnetometers, which assist various organizations in finding all sorts of objects on the seafloor such as unexploded ordinance or ship wrecks. I've also recently been doing some work on measuring water quality using environmental sensors in order to ensure drinking water is safe. 

I'm currently finishing up my MBA at Central Connecticut State University in business analytics. So hopefully when I'm burned out on being a code monkey I can move onto new things.

How'd you get here? Probably the biggest help in getting to where I am today was financial assistance. Mr. Lozaw and Mr. Brown wrote me a letter of recommendation for a National Science Foundation scholarship, which ended up covering the majority of my tuition at CCSU while getting my Bachelors in Computer Science. AP Java was also a big help in getting me started in the field, so kudos to the now retired Miss Smith. Other than that, I just really like programming and so I made it my job.

What are your goals? In my undergrad, I double majored in sociology and computer science. I have always wanted to get my PhD in a topic such as computational social science which combines the two fields.

Advice for WHS Students? Find a career path you really like. Don't rush into anything and take your time. You're bound to have a few flounders and failures but it is how you learn and recover from them that really matters.

If you could travel anywhere tomorrow, where would you go? Bletchley Park

Coaching with New Goals: Emily O'Connor

Emily O'Connor, Class of 2009, Watertown CT

What are you up to? Well, I'm in school... again. I just got into Waterbury UCONN's accelerated nursing program, where I'll receive my second bachelors degree. 

I actually still spend a lot of time at WHS. I coach during fall semester (volleyball) and spring semester (softball). Coaching has become a huge part of who I am and being able to do so at my alma mater makes it that much more fun! I coach the sports that I fell in love with, with all of the coaches who taught me. Yes - all my coaches are still there. Ally Demarest was my volleyball coach in Senior year of high school. Keith Borkowski and George Palomba have coached me since I was 13 year old. Now, they are the men I stand beside on the softball field, coaching. To have a full circle experience (playing, coaching and umping) has given me a better appreciation for each sport.

How'd you get here? After graduating high school I moved to New Haven and attended SCSU for 4 years and received my Bachelors Degree in Bilingual Speech Pathology. 2 years and approximately 20 graduate school rejection letters later (yes - 20) I decided to move on. I worked for one year as an ABA therapist; I worked one-on-one with children who where non-verbally autistic. While this was a rewarding job, I knew it was not my CAREER.

My new goal is nursing. I'll be the third generation of nurses in my family. I had to re-take EVERY science class I ever took at SCSU, because mine where now either too old or based on speech pathology (I was thrilled). I saved some money and did this at NVCC. During this time, I was coaching and working as the special events coordinator for Watertown Parks and Recreation. All of these things leads us to present day Emily. I'm still coaching, waiting for more schooling, and working at the Parks and Rec office (10 years later).

What are your goals? I would ultimately like to work in pediatric nursing nursing and eventually become a Nurse Practitioner. I love helping people, so cliche, I know... but I do.

Advice for WHS Students? It's okay to be rejected (coming from me, I was rejected over 20 times for graduate schools, I know the feeling). It's is not always negative, it's simply a change of plans. 

Also, stay in touch with your high school friends because while your college friends are great, my best friend has been the same person since day one. Thanks Han!

If you could travel anywhere tomorrow, where would you go? Ireland.

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Learning to Fly: 2nd Lt Zach Holmes

Zach Holmes, Class of 2012, Pensacola FL

What are you up to? I'm currently studying to become a Combat Systems Officer in the United States Air Force. It's like the old navigator position, but I could also be responsible for electronic warfare and/or all combat systems, depending on the aircraft I'm in. I'm basically a high-tech version of "Goose" from "Top Gun".

How'd you get here? I graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in May, 2016 with a B.S. in Physics. I also commissioned as a 2d Lt in the United States Air Force, after going through ROTC.

What are your goals? I'm focused on getting through our rigorous training program first. After that, I'd love to be assigned to either an F-15E, an AC-130, or a B-1. They're really cool aircrafts. I also want to travel (a lot).

Advice for WHS Students? Don't be afraid of failure. Failure is the key to success. If you do poorly at something, take a step back from it, analyze the situation, and take the proper action to make sure you succeed at it the next time around, or learn a lesson from it. The only time failure hurts you is when you decide to ignore it or dwell on it.

If you could travel anywhere tomorrow, where would you go?  I would love to go to New Zealand. I've always wanted to hike across it.

A Townie Pirate: Mike Lemay

Mike Lemay, Class of 2009, Fort Lauderdale, FL

What are you up to? I've been living and working as the first mate onboard a private yacht for the past year or so (yes, like the show Below Deck). We basically just go island hopping around the Caribbean, helping the boss and his family on vacation.

How'd you get here? Well, after I graduated from UConn with my Bachelors in Education and a business management minor, I stepped into the "real world" and wasn't sure what I wanted to do. We've all heard the cliché "do what you love and you won't work a day in your life." Well, two of my favorite things to do are boats and beaches, so I packed my truck and drove to Fort Lauderdale. That pretty much brings us up to here.

What are your goals? I actually just started the process for my next two steps. I'm getting my captains license next month, and shortly thereafter I plan to start a yacht management company. Other than that, I've woken up happy every day since I started in this industry, so if I can keep that up, I'll be satisfied.

Advice for WHS Students? I'll have to answer this with the same cliché I've been living my life by:

DO WHAT YOU LOVE!

It doesn't matter if it's cars, art, sports or science. There are far too many people I've met that don't enjoy what they do, and it kills me. It's great to have goals in life, just make sure the juice is worth the squeeze. 

Also, listen to your parents! I never thought my dad knew what I was going through, but it turns out he did. Now I'm asking my dad questions nearly every day.

What is the last movie you saw in the theatre? The Revenant

From College to the NFL: Tom Frenette

Tom Frenette, Class of 2010, Miami, FL

What are you up to? Currently working as a video producer & editor for the Miami Dolphins. My 5th grade Polk School yearbook says I wanted to be a Wide Receiver for the Dolphins when I'm 30. I'm not making the big bucks like those guys, but I get to run out with them during player intros. Close enough right?

How'd you get here? After WHS, I went to SCSU for 4 years. I couldn't have asked for a better place to really grow up. The opportunities it awarded landed me my dream job right out of school!

What are your goals? Just to better myself everyday. It's usually something that relates to learning or trying something new in my profession, but it can also be something as small as being polite or trying to limit my road rage due to the incompetent South Florida drivers.

Advice for WHS Students? Broaden your horizons. WHS isn't the most diverse school, but that just isn't the case in the real world. Go outside your comfort zone, and meet people different than yourself. You'll be much better for it.

What is your greatest weakness? I second guess myself too often.

A Running RN: Jennifer D'Angelo

Jennifer D'Angelo, Class of 2008, Cheshire, CT

What are you up to? I'm very happy to be a registered nurse at Smilow Cancer Hospital, part of Yale-New Haven Hospital. I started working there in May, on one of the outpatient floors. My day consists of administering chemotherapy to hematology patients (patients diagnosed with leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma), drawing their labs and giving them blood products as needed. I love taking care of oncology patients. They are the nicest, most grateful people I have ever met. I have taken care of cancer patients whose ages range from early 20s to 90s. 

I recently passed my oncology nursing certification and I am going into my 2nd semester as a graduate nursing student at Western CT State University in the Adult Nurse Practitioner Program. 

Even after tearing my meniscus and getting knee surgery in 2014, I'm still running. I ran my 2nd half-marathon last November; the Disneyland Half Marathon.

How'd you get here? Before my current job, I worked as a RN at Saint Mary's Hospital on an inpatient medical oncology floor. The floor was not 100% oncology so when I got tired of working the 3pm-11pm shift, I moved on to my current job. I absolutely love oncology nursing. If someone told me in high school or even while I was in nursing school, that I would work in oncology, I would have told them, "No way! It's too sad!" But after I graduated nursing school, I had two grandparents diagnosed with cancer. They passed away a year later. It changed me, in a good way. I really love being able to give back to these patients and their families.

What are your goals? In December 2018, I will be done with my MSN degree, take my boards, and become a certified APRN. My dream job would be to continue to work at Yale-New Haven Hospital as one of their oncology APRNs. After I graduate, I want to get married and have kids. 

I also want to run more half marathons and hopefully a full marathon if my knee cooperates.

Advice for WHS Students?

Life begins at the end of your comfort zone. Remember what makes you comfortable will never make you grow. 

Don't take your high school relationships seriously. You will change so much even though you may think you won't, you will. True love comes around when you LEAST expect it to. Don't go searching. 

Don't take things or people for granted. Be grateful for your health and for the people in your life who love you. 

May the force be with you.

What is your greatest weakness? I worry too much.

A Townie Mad Scientist: Patrick Finneran

Patrick Finneran, Class of 2010, Waltham, MA

What are you up to? I'm going into my third year of my PhD program for Biochemistry and Biophysics at Brandeis University. For the most part, I work in a research lab and take very few classes. I do research that uses the study of evolution to better understand problems faced in different types of cancer on the level of proteins and molecular interactions.

I've also recently had the chance to drive across the country with my girlfriend and see all the major places I've wanted to see in the United States.

To me, biochemistry and traveling are just different ways to learn more about the world.

How'd you get here? I was lead to think that I wasn't going to succeed if I studied chemistry. For many of my high school classes, I rarely did my homework and some teachers never saw me as one of the best students. No one ever had to directly say it, but it was implied. Statements would be made about the types of students that succeed in college and I never felt like one of them. This had a large impact on me.

I had a very positive experience with psychology in high school and I enjoyed it a lot. So, I went to college as a psychology/Pre-Med major at Western Connecticut State University. Within less than a year I learned I was not in the right program and switched to major in chemistry, which is what I really wanted to do. Eventually, I joined a brand new lab in the department and did biochemistry research for about 2 years. I worked on a research project focused on malaria. Eventually, I applied to a few grad schools and found the one that offered exactly what I was looking for in a program.

What are your goals? I've been changing my goals and making them up as I go along; that's the fun part. One year ago, I would have said I wanted to teach at a college for undergraduates. Right now, I've been thinking about working at a law firm and going to law school to work in intellectual property law for biotech companies. My family will most likely laugh at me if I keep going to school.

Advice for WHS Students? Don't let others influence your opinion of yourself. If you want to do something; go for it. College gives you more motivation than what high school gives you. Also, talk with others about your problems. In my PhD program, every student has a different strength and weakness and it's helpful when we remind each other that both science and life are hard and we can't be perfect so we shouldn't stress out so much.

What is your greatest weakness? Laziness

A Ski Bum & Soccer Coach with a Masters: Jamie Trayer

Jamie Trayer, Class of 2009, Castleton, VT

What are you up to?: I was recently hired as a Program Director for Rutland Recreation and Parks Department. In addition, I am the assistant and goalkeeper coach for Castleton University Women's soccer team. My program director position is very hands on and diverse; one of the main reasons I applied for the job. Currently I develop, direct, supervise and evaluate assigned program activities specific to two facilities within the city, Giorgetti Arena and White Pool. Girogetti Arena is a three season facility that converts from an indoor skate-park (summer), to an ice arena (winter) and then to a turf field (spring). White Pool is currently under a complete renovation and expected to open in June 2017! I also oversee the mountain biking programs, day camps, and adult athletic leagues. My job definitely keeps me on the toes with it's ever changing environment and circumstances, but it allows me to take a creative approach when researching current trends and developing new programming and facility updates. I feel like I need a climbing rope for this huge learning curve but I wouldn't have it any other way. It challenges me just as my athletes do coaching at the collegiate level.

In my spare time I am the part-time assistant and goalkeeper coach for the Castleton Women's Soccer Team. This is my third year with the program and I am hyped to see what this fall has to offer. We are bringing in one of our best recruiting classes yet, that not only offers great talent but phenomenal young women as well.

How'd you get here? I moved to VT just before the end of my undergraduate degree to finish an internship at Green Mountain College as their Assistant Strength and Conditioning coach. Upon completion, I "ski-bumed" it for a year, snowboarding at Killington Mountain while working at Darkside Snowboard Shop and Sun-up Bakery, both located on the Killington Access Road. I was just hanging out, living life, when I ran into one of my connections through Green Mountain College. I was told that the Graduate Assistant (GA) Women's Soccer Coach position unexpectedly opened and they needed someone to step in. Having a background of coaching and playing at the collegiate level, I applied and was hired that week. That opportunity was incredible. As a GA, I coached for their women's soccer team while pursuing my masters degree in Athletic Leadership. I just graduated this past May with a Masters in Athletic Administration. Due to my incredible relationship with my coaching staff and athletes, I decided to stay in the area post-grad and was offered a part-time coaching position for the Fall. Knowing that I was staying, I began searching for a job while I was interning at Middlebury College in Event Management this past spring. I happened upon the Program Director position three days before the deadline and applied. One thing lead to another and here I am!

What are your goals? Since I was young, my end goal has been to be happy in every aspect of my life. I don’t need to make millions of dollars or own pricey materialistic things to define my success or happiness. I’ve discovered that if I obtain a career that I love and am passionate about it, I’ll never have to work a day in my life. Right now, I am happy where I am. My job gives me opportunity to give back on a much larger scale. I get so much love and enjoyment seeing my athletes progress with a new skill. My position as a Program Director allows me to do just that for so many more people. I provide people with fun.

I would love to continue to excel within my coaching career as well. I currently hold two certifications in strength and conditioning and soccer and have goals to renew them annually. I would like to obtain my Level I, II and III Goalkeeping License from the National Soccer Coaches Association in America within the next year or so and obtain my National and Advanced National Goalkeeping Licenses within the next five years. We all have goals to travel and see the world, so in time, that will present itself.

Advice for WHS Students? Breathe, trust yourself and take chances. Every opportunity that has presented itself to me since graduating college and moving to VT, has just happened. I never really had a "plan". It's okay to not know what is next and it's okay to be scared. Sometimes you just have to go with it. That's what I'm doing and the ride has been incredible. Work hard but make time for you. Remember that work is work and life is life. Do what you love and smile.

What are the ingredients for a perfect day? Sound sleep, delicious coffee, killer tunes, great company & spontaneous adventures (waking up to 24" of snow would be amazing as well *pow day*!)

Creating a Community: Hannah Provost

Hannah Provost, Class of 2006, Plattsburgh, NY

What are you up to? We are raising our family while I build my career as a financial advisor. The community we live in is a big part of our lives. We absolutely love Plattsburgh because of how welcoming it has been, how much hope there is for the future, and how incredibly beautiful the landscape is.

How'd you get here? After high school I went to University of Vermont - if you ask Geoff Lutz he would say it was for "Save the Whale Economics".. but really, I went for environmental studies and community & economic development. I didn't love college so I decided to work instead after my Freshman year. I started a career in banking and I met my husband.

About 4 years ago, my husband's job brought us to Plattsburgh. I became interested in becoming a financial advisor after my experience as a branch manager in a local bank. I'm currently finishing up my Bachelor's Degree (apparently I was on the 10 year plan) and have obtained my FINRA series 7 & 65 licenses. In the last 4 years, we also became foster parents and adopted our two amazing, resilient daughters (ages 4 & 6).

What are your goals? I want to raise my girls to be strong, independent, and kind. I want to build a stellar career as a financial planner that allows me to be an active learner. I want to be a leader in growing my community and making it a safe and welcoming place for everyone.

Advice for WHS Students? Keep your mind open to new opportunities. The life I have now, which I absolutely love, is one that I could never have imagined even 5 years ago.

What is the last movie you saw in the theatre? Our arts center did a showing of Monsters Inc a couple months ago!

Business Chic and Inspired: Gina Bianca

Gina Bianca, Class of 2009, Southington, CT

What are you up to? I currently own a successful hair salon in Southington which I established in 2014. Gina Bianca Hair is one of the best hair salons in the state and I employ eight talented professionals who are dedicated to making people's day! We service clients from all walks of life and always enjoy the diversity that our location and brand gives us. Currently, I am in the process of expanding my location from 1600 square feet to 4,000 square feet and we have only been open 18 months. Outside of working in the salon, I am in the process of closing on my first home, which will double as an income property. In my free time, which is scarce, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family, spoiling my dog and traveling when I can.

How'd you get here? When Junior year at WHS came along and I had to start thinking about college, I must have applied to 20 random schools for all different things. I wanted to be a plastic surgeon, a marine biologist, a teacher, a guidance counselor, a social worker - I had no idea. I had never performed well in school, so I ended up finishing high school and planned on working until I figured it out. Right before graduation, Mrs. Zimmerman assigned us a project where we had to create a business plan and a business for our final project. For no specific reason, I created a hair salon that doubles as a tattoo shop. I was so excited about it and put more time and passion into that assignment than any homework I had ever had. It got me thinking about hair school. I ended up signing up on a whim at the Paul Mitchell School in North Haven and it changed my life forever.

Flash forward a few years and I was doing hair, stuck in auto pilot and not truly fulfilled. I was partying every night, not giving work much effort and pretty much lost passion for what I loved. If you really want to know the secret of how I became successful so quickly, it was that I gave up drugs and alcohol for a solid 3 years and became solely focused on my goals. I knew I wanted to open a business and the one thing holding me back was myself. I spent all my money at the bar, didn't have motivation and surely wasn't looking professional; so I completely stopped! My sobriety opened my eyes to a new world. It hadn't dawned on me that I was never truly myself all of these years, I was living a lifestyle that was destructive and not pushing me towards my goals. I stopped drinking 9/13/12 and remained sober until January of 2016. After all of my hard work and accomplishments I decided that I was allowed to have a little fun again! The discipline, focus and control I had when I was completely sober and focused is how I got where I am today. Now I have no issue partying and having fun in moderation but I am so grateful for the time I spent focused on my career goals!

What are your goals? My goal is to follow through with our expansion and help my team achieve all of their personal and professional goals. I hope to have a staff of 20 inspiring people and grow GBH into a million dollar salon by 2018. We are projected to hit our goals if we keep going the way we have been. I also would like to build my dream house by 2020 and invest in a few more rental properties!

Advice for WHS Students?

1. Always be true to yourself and never think your dreams and goals are too big. Have goals and dreams that are so big you feel uncomfortable telling small minded people. You will be surprised how much support you receive from strangers over friends and family. The people you think will be there for you sometimes won't and that's okay - some journeys are meant to be traveled alone.

2. You have no control over how people act or what happens to you. The only control you have is how you react to what life throws at you. Life is 10% what happens and 90% how you react. Also know that if your dreams and goals aren't happening then chances are the problem is you. If you are strong enough to make sacrifices and adjust your behavior you can literally achieve anything in this world that you want - and if anyone tells you otherwise cut them out of your life because chances are they will never be happy for you anyway. 

3. If you're the smartest person in the room you're in the wrong room.

4. Make your Mom proud.

What is the last movie you saw in the theatre? I can't even remember the last time I was at the movies but I'm obsessed with Netflix and am currently watching The Office for the 10th time!!!! Something therapeutic about it for me :)

Determined and Filled with Coffee: Olivia Grella

Olivia Grella, Class of 2013, Willimantic, CT

What are you up to? I'm in my senior year at Eastern Connecticut State University. I study psychology and have done a lot of research in the areas of eating disorders, body perceptions, cultural standards, and exercise behaviors. Other than that, I run cross country and track. I also work in the Advising Center where I help freshmen and sophomores with any school counseling problems or concerns.

How'd you get here?  A lot of coffee to carry me through long nights of sitting behind a computer running statistics. My roommates would rotate who would come to the lab and bring me the next cup. To be completely honest, I never thought I would become so invested in the research aspect of psychology.

When I first started psych I was completely set on becoming a high school guidance counselor and didn't want to spend time in any other area. But after I took a class where I conducted my own research on physique anxiety and exercise behaviors, I realized I wanted to keep doing more. I became close with some of my professors and started helping them with their own projects. I also became a TA for research classes and started helping other students with their research projects. With the guidance of one of my professors, I did an independent study where I looked at cultural standards, body perception, and eating disorder rates. It wasn't until I built these connections with my professors that I went back to my original research and starting doing more with it. This past December, I was given the honor to present this research at Eastern’s Psychological Science Conference. I’m in the process of finding new conferences, possibly ones outside of Connecticut, to present at. 

What are your goals?  I really want to go to graduate school and become a licensed clinical psychologist. I submitted applications to master’s programs in the area of clinical mental health counseling for the time being. Once this degree is completed, I plan to move onto a PhD program in clinical psychology and meet those licensure requirements. I plan on continuing to research and to start focusing more on eating disorders. I really want to use my degree to do something that will make another person's life better. This is where I feel the most passionate. My dream is to become an Eating Disorder Specialist and work on developing new prevention programs. Even though I "narrowed" it down to a concentration, I could still go in so many different directions. That's the great thing about psychology: even if I don't get there right away, the thought of working on a college campus as a clinical mental health counselor or working at an outpatient center with a mixture of patients would make me just as happy because I would still be helping other people improve their mental health.

Advice for WHS Students? Don't pick a path just because it's comfortable. For me, I wanted to be a guidance counselor because it was the only aspect of psychology that I really knew. I was comfortable knowing that the job was actually out there and it was attainable. I'm so happy though that I experienced different parts of psychology and found the research aspect to it as well as the clinical/counseling side. So I really encourage you to explore new things. I know it sounds cliche, but you only know what you've experienced and it's hard to make a life decision if all you know is what's happening around you. If you have an interest in a field, explore every part of it because you never know what you may discover. Also, I highly encourage getting to know your professors, especially if, you have any plans of going to graduate school. They really want to help you succeed and if you build relationships with them early on then you're going to be the one they remember for awesome opportunities. Overall, if there is something you are passionate about, pursue it. Don't let being afraid hold you back. More importantly, don't let others make the decision for you. Your dream may sound crazy now, but with lots of hard work and dedication, you'll be amazed at how much easier and attainable it seems to be.

What are the ingredients for a perfect day? Going for a long run in the morning and coming back to coffee and a good book!

Yeah, well, that's just like your opinion man: John Dipaola

John Dipaola, 2009, Watertown, CT

What are you up to? Surprisingly, not that much at all. I'm currently waiting to hear back from The University of Bridgeport for (hopefully acceptance) into to their Secondary Education Graduate Program. Until then, I am trying to keep myself active and occupied with some part-time work here and there, along with starting my own sports blog (will most likely blow up Facebook when I get a few articles written) and being an avid meathead / exercise enthusiast at the Greater Waterbury YMCA.

How'd you get here? Before even graduating from WHS I honestly had no idea what I wanted to do or where I wanted to end up in life. At the time, I was a pretty OK swimmer, so I looked into schools with Division II and III swim programs. I think that was the first mistake I made because instead of focusing on a university with good academics, I wanted to be an athlete first.

That didn't go as planned because I stopped swimming my very first semester at Southern Connecticut State University. I ended up disliking that university for all the wrong reasons. I transferred to The University of Connecticut (Storrs campus) for two years, before the weight of constant partying, lack of studying and low class attendance, and a miserable relationship took its toll on me (mentally and emotionally). I then transferred campuses to the Waterbury branch while changing my major (when I should have been a senior). After another year and a half and commuting between the Waterbury and Storrs campuses for classes, I finally earned my Undergraduate Degree in English and started my first "big boy" job as a Visual manager of an Abercrombie & Fitch store in Milford (please keep the disrespectful comments to a minimum).

Even though the schedule and hours of retail are completely insane (especially during the holidays) I did make some good professional connections and made a lot of close friends, many of whom I still stay in close contact with today. After a little more than a year of working with the company, I decided to part ways and return to school so that I could fulfill some missing pre-requisites for grad school programs I had been looking at. After a mostly successful spring semester, I mailed my applications and I am now sitting at my computer typing this article.

What are your goals? I can safely say I have no clue where or what I will end up doing in the future. While my current plans are aiming me in the direction of graduate school, I have had so much anxiety over the "what if" scenarios of whether or not I'll get into this program that I've actually begun taking prescription medicine to counteract this. Even though my biggest fear is trying my best to achieve a specific goal (in this case being admitted to the intended grad program) a part of me doesn't fear the unexpected, but instead embraces the possibility of "what if". Even if I end up not getting accepted into the U.B. program, I'd like to further my sports blog development and maybe even end up pursuing a career in sports media. If that doesn't go as planned I still feel very confident in my writing abilities and could pursue careers elsewhere in the field of writing or editing. Even if THAT fails then I could always return to my previous management position, which I thankfully parted with on good terms. I've most definitely got enough back-up plans to keep myself occupied with for a while.

Advice for WHS Students? I mean I could ramble on for hours with this part but I'll give my best few pieces of advice: 

1. Take care of yourself mentally physically, and emotionally. The triangle of mental, physical, and emotional health is absolutely true. Try to challenge yourself with something new each day, whether it's trying new brain game puzzles, or keeping up with a personal interest blog, or even just pushing yourself with strenuous physical activity; these three cornerstones can definitely keep your mind and body in harmony, keeping you refreshed and ready for any challenges life throws at you. Plus it never hurts to look and feel good about yourself, especially when others around you complain about their own lives. 

2. It's the quality, not the quantity of your friendships. When I was a freshman in high school I was not social at all and extremely introverted. As time passed I did begin to open up and make more new friends, but the one constant I noticed was that the few good friends I had when I began were always by my side. After graduating, I still kept the closest contact with these few friends, while my relationship with many others seemed to fade away at times. Even to this very day many years later, I'm still the best of friends with the same six people I was friends with the first day of freshman year. Even though I keep an open mind when it comes to meeting new people, I know that I'll have these guys on my side until the day I die (or they die, whichever comes first).

3. DO NOT DWELL ON THE PAST. Seriously, this part bugs me the most because even I still do it. Even if you have the time of your life in high school or college, these times will pass. Instead of choosing to waste time dwelling on these moments and complaining about "how you wish you could recreate them" spend time actively trying to push your life in the direction of creating a scenario even better than the ones you previously lived out.

"To put it in comparison with professional sports, imagine if Tom Brady woke up everyday and said "Damn I really wish I beat the Giants in the 2007 Super Bowl, that perfect season sure would have been great!" Instead of trying to lead his team to another Super Bowl Championship, his dwelling on the past would only incite more mental errors and probably end his career on a sour note. So with that in mind, don't try and recreate the past from memory, just do your best each day and work for an even brighter future."

I guess a fourth piece of advice I'm still coming to realize now, is that you shouldn't feel pressured to live your life at a certain pace. Too many people are feeling pressured to grow up quickly and find a textbook definition of "success". Nothing happens overnight and even though waiting for what you want sucks, it's pretty much inevitable. Try not to rush into anything (unless you've done your research on it) because change in your life can be very drastic. Just because all your friends are moving out of state for school or work, or getting married at a young age, doesn't mean you should hurry up and do the same thing. I mean if all these people jumped off a bridge and broke their legs, would you want to break your leg too, just because everyone you know has?

What are the ingredients for a perfect day? Waking up early, eating three square healthy meals (with some snacks in between), checking the news for anything new and exciting, getting in some good exercise (whether it's lifting weights, swimming, biking, or even playing organized sports) and then winding down at night with a movie, or some reading.

Baltimore Bound: Rebekah Wood

Rebekah Wood, Class of 2009, Baltimore, MD

What are you up to? Currently, I am enjoying my summer off while nannying 2 kids -  ages 7 and 10! How do I have my summer off? Well, between August and June, I am a 4th grade Math teacher in Baltimore City and recently finished my 3rd year teaching. Teaching is a demanding job that I enjoy and take very seriously. During the school year, you can find me lesson-planning for hours on any given Sunday. 

I live in Canton, Baltimore with two roommates and I am lucky enough to have my sister a couple blocks away! Who knew she'd become a teacher too and move to Baltimore! I am involved in the Baltimore Sport and Social Club (BSSC) club during the year playing volleyball, football, and softball. Most recently, I started working for the BSSC as a staff leader for softball. The BSSC has been a great way to socialize with friends and meet new people while doing something fun! There's also a first-ever boy in the picture. :-O We've been dating for a little over a year and he is from Maryland originally. That has been a whole new learning experience. Besides that most weekends I am either hanging out with friends, exploring Baltimore, spending time with Justin, or doing adult stuff (bleh.)

"I was not the best high school student. I skipped class often, had a few Saturday detentions, and was your average B/C student."

How'd you get here? I paved my way through high school by having a great personality, tons of friends, involvement in school things, and being the little sister to a straight-A student. I always knew I could do better. 

During my senior year, our school motto was "Achieve Your Potential"  (thank you Mr. Geary and Mr. Balanda). I guess it kinda-sorta sunk in, because I started doing just that. I became really motivated to go to college and move away from Watertown. Mrs. Veatch, my guidance counselor, recommended I check out Towson University in Maryland because she thought it would be a good fit for me and, boy, was she right! I visited Towson 3 times before I went. I couldn't get enough of it! It was so new and exciting!

After graduating high school at the ripe age of 18, my dad and I road-tripped down to Towson (for the second time) to move in. The only people I knew there were those random people you meet on Facebook. I totally lost my "Watertown security blanket", ya know? The one where anywhere you go, you'll see someone you know or someone to help you out? That was gone, but I didn't let it hinder me and I totally embraced my new surroundings. 

During my 4 years at Towson, I kept myself very busy with school, work, friends, and of course partying. School was HARD ... at first! Out of the 5 courses I took my first semester, I only made it out by passing 3 of them. This made for a lot of catch up work in my years to come, which motivated me to stay focused and on top of my school work because I didn't have the time or money to be a 5th year senior. I always had a job, whether is was working at the desk in one of the dorms or babysitting on the weekends for my personal spending fund. I was not privileged with an allowance from my parents and if I was going to make work at Towson, I had to make money. 

By my junior year, I continued to work, joined a sorority, and moved off campus. It was then that I realized I wanted to make Maryland home. In order to do that, I'd have to get a teaching job after college. Over the next two years, I had 4 different teaching internships. Because I already knew what I wanted, I treated each one as if it was a job interview for a future position. To my surprise - it worked - and I was SHOCKED! Here I was, the former B/C high school student ... never first for anything and I NAILED a job first in my cohort of teachers eventually becoming an example for them! Not only that, but I was hired in March before I even graduated in May! I was set. It was then that I knew my hard work paid off by reaching my end goal of a job in Maryland and I realized that I CAN achieve my potential! 

I can't believe that was 8 years ago, and I have just finished up my 3rd year teaching. I have established a GREAT support system in Maryland and am looking forward to was the future holds! :)

What are your goals? It was difficult to remember to set new goals after graduating. I had a "I MADE IT" feeling and had to motivate myself again. Now that I have, I have made many goals and am always trying to better myself. 

• Better myself physically and mentally. There is always room for improvements in yourself to make a better you.

• Finding a new school / position. This year was tough. I was surplus (budget cut at my school, so I had to find a new job and transfer) in October. It was the toughest thing ever to start the school year again in November. I persevered and will teach for one more year at my current school until looking for another school that is a better fit.

• Continuing my education. I am currently working on my Masters in Instructional Technology at Towson. I have a love for technology and use it constantly in the classroom. I am always finding new ways to engage and motivate my students through technology.

• Thinking WAY into the future ... I would like to take my Masters and teach new teachers how to use technology effectively in the classroom at a college level.

Advice for WHS Students? 

• Achieve your potential and don't let anyone/anything hold you back! My family wanted me to go to a state school and become a teacher in CT. I am where I am today because I told them "no".

• Ask questions, plan ahead and assume nothing. Have a tentative five-year plan but be ready for possible adjustments. You never know what can happen.

• People don't get lucky in life. They work hard to get what they want. Hard work does pay off.

• Lastly, Watertown will be there forever. It'll become a great place to visit and catch up with old friends. Expand your horizons, there might be another life out there for you!

What are the ingredients for a perfect day? The sun, good music, good beer, and good company for lots of laughter :)

Can't get enough of Watertown: Ashlee Gifford

Ashlee Gifford, Class of 2009, Watertown, NY

What are you up to? Currently, I am an RN at the Children's Home of Jefferson County in Watertown, New York (yes, I moved 280 miles from Watertown to Watertown). I am a mom to about 20+ kids from ages 9-17 who have been removed from their homes for a variety of reasons. I am happily married to the love of my life since May 23rd, 2015 and have a beautiful 2-month old daughter named Madison Rose.

How'd you get here? I graduated from CCSU in May 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I met my husband on Facebook in December 2014 while he was stationed in Germany working as Military Police in the U.S Army. Six months later we were married! We moved to the North Country where he was stationed at Fort Drum and, after a long road to finding a nursing job as a new graduate with no experience in the middle of nowhere, here I am!

What are your goals? We are unsure of where my husband's military career will take us next, but I plan to embrace the challenge and I look forward to the opportunities that I will face as we PCS. I plan to continue to see exactly where my place is in the nursing field and continue to love the road to figuring that out.

Advice for WHS Students? Expect the unexpected, embrace the challenge, prepare for the obstacles, know that nothing comes easy, but it's always worth it. 

こんにちは! Γειά σου! ¡Hola! and Hello!: Demosthenes Gakidis

Demosthenes Gakidis, Class of 2010, Watertown, CT but headed to Philadelphia, PA in August 2016

What are you up to? I am attending the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education for an M.S. Ed. in TESOL (Teaching English as a Second Language). At UPenn, beyond studying, I'll be working as a Graduate Assistant in the Graduate School of Education-- talking to prospective students, helping professors with research, and a few other administrative assistant responsibilities. Alongside this, I'll be a Graduate Associate in the College Houses assisting undergraduate students, organizing presentations, and taking trips around Philadelphia. 

How'd you get here? After graduating from Watertown High School, I attended UConn with a major in English. I knew I liked reading and writing, but I had no idea what I wanted to do with my interests in the "real world." At UConn, I joined a volunteer group to assist adult English as a second language classes at the local high school next to campus. Here, I had a chance to interact with and work with people from countries such as China, Japan, Mexico, Turkey, and Austria. I realized I loved teaching ESL and meeting people from around the world. I applied for jobs abroad and eventually taught English in Kochi, Japan to elementary school and junior high school students for two years with the JET Program. The experience, as cliche as this sounds, changed my life. It's hard to sum up two years in a foreign country in a few sentences, but I'll try my best. I saw a new way of life and immersed myself into a culture I knew nothing about previously. I began to trust myself more and became really independent. I studied Japanese daily and eventually was able to communicate with people in my schools and town. I had an incredible time traveling around Japan (visited 23/47 prefectures) and to countries such as South Korea, Taiwan, and Australia. The food was so good; I still dream about it to this day. Now, I'm going to graduate school to learn all the theoretical background in the field of teaching English as a second language and to study language acquisition. 

What are your goals? My future goals at the moment include teaching international students, refugees, or immigrants in the United States or Europe in universities or community centers. I hope to eventually earn a higher degree in Linguistics/Social Anthropology or study Immigration Law. I also plan on traveling extensively throughout the world and want to constantly be experiencing new things, eating delicious food, and meeting a diverse range of people. 

Advice for WHS Students? My advice for WHS students is that it is okay to fail. You'll fail many times before you reach your goals. The difference is how you react to your failure. If you take your failure as a lesson, and learn from your mistakes, you'll have a better chance for success. Also, it's never too late to discover what you want to be. You don't need your whole life figured out at age 18. Don't worry. Live your truth and follow your passions.

What is something that bugged you today? The heat and mosquitoes. 

Roots Matter: Meghan Fogarty

Meghan Fogarty, Class of 2009, Watertown, CT

What are you up to? I'm currently working at Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield as an Escalations Specialist in Customer Service. I love my job because I love helping people. Currently, I assist on-shore and off-shore vendor representatives. I teach them how to work their calls and correctly assist members with daily inquiries. This job is not something I would have ever been able to predict would fall onto my lap, but I'm so glad it has. Anthem has become a second home for me, I love the people I work with and enjoy getting to help people!

How'd you get here? I got here because I networked. I graduated from Iona College in 2013 with a degree in psychology. I was working at a family daycare (which I loved... really) but it kind-of ran it's course. Once college loans started coming in I knew I had to move onto bigger and better opportunities. It's so easy to stay in a job that's comfortable, but it's important to push yourself and continue to do so in any career path you choose. I asked around for any kind of job openings that family and friends might be able to refer me to. My uncle told me Anthem was hiring and, to be honest, at first I turned my nose up at him. A customer service job didn't seem like a job that I ever wanted to partake in. I'm so glad I did because, as I've found out, Anthem is a company of ladders to not only higher positions but to many versatile careers. It's dedication that will move me up in the company and I can't wait to see what's in store for me.

What are your goals? My ultimate goal, career-wise, is to become a Provider Contractor Specialist. I want to make connections and draw up contracts with providers and hospitals who choose Anthem. Moving from the bottom of the company to the top tier is something that can be obtained with the knowledge of every moving part in Anthem. I have worked in the Customer Service department for two years and now I am currently interviewing for an open position within Anthem, which will only get me closer to that goal. 

*Update: I got the job! :)

Advice for WHS Students? My biggest piece of advice: Never turn away from your true friends. Life after college can bring you right back home or far away from home. Either direction, always keep your true friends from high school - no matter where you or they go. I'm living in Watertown, working in Wallingford, and I still have a close-knit group of friends and family who have known me from the beginning. It's biggest sigh of relief at the end of the day, knowing they are there for me. To have people around you that are routing for you to succeed, and have never stopped, is empowering. We all need a community. So keep your friends from high school close; that is the best piece of advice I can give. I can't thank them enough for getting me where I am today, for making me who I am today.

How hungry are you right now? About to have a yogurt and a banana!

Creativity and Communications: Amber Spiotti

Amber Spiotti, Class of 2008, Jacksonville, FL

What are you up to? I recently started a new position in the Communications and Advancement Department at a prep-school (think the southern version of Taft School). Essentially I write news articles, manage our social media accounts, serve as a photographer and event coordinator. Now that I'm closer to the ocean, I spend the weekends riding my bike at the beach, planning my next vacation (California road trip) and exploring Jacksonville.

How'd you get here? Since college graduation I worked with NBC and Fox News, within their news and marketing departments. It's an exciting job field. After spending so much time up north, I wanted a change, so I moved down here. I was able to stay within the communications field and put some of my creativity to work.

What are your goals? Transition into PR, travel to Ireland, get my Masters and pick up piano lessons again.

Advice for WHS Students? It's okay if you don't know exactly what it is you want to do with the rest of your life. A lot of us are still figuring it all out. But don't be afraid to get outside of your comfort zone. Embrace change and make the most of your post-high school experience. And travel - always travel!

What is your favorite color? Blue

Behind the scenes: Rick Mastroianni

Rick Mastroianni, Class of 2009, New York City, NY

Where do you live? In October, my fiancée and I left everything behind in Chicago to start a new life in New York City. It's great to be back on the East Coast, but life has never been so busy.

What are you up to? We decided to move to New York City with no job or even apartment, just big dreams, a little money, and a lot of love. Admittedly, we got lucky. Within our first month, I landed a professional career as a studio manager of the top acting studio in the country. A short time later, my fiancée got an awesome position overseeing sales for a company that offers conferencing solutions for clients like the United Nations and Bank of America. We stay busy, to say the least. I'm very proud of what I do, but I've never worked so hard in my life. When you advance professionally, the responsibilities add up quickly. Right now, I'm in charge of the entire admissions department at the studio (which is a lot of work), but in addition to that, I oversee all day to day activities including the company's accounting, classes, and even group workshops. Essentially, we develop beginner actors for work on major networks like Disney, Fox, Nickelodeon, and even Netflix. Sometimes I work six days a week, ten to twelve hour days - but it's worth it to see these people get picked up by major agencies and management companies throughout the city.

Work is work, though - and just one part of life. I'm thrilled to say that In February, I proposed to the love of my life in the middle of Grand Central Station. It was an amazing experience! We were surrounded by hundreds of random people, cheering for and congratulating us. The wedding is at the end of August. We're getting married in Central Park and our reception is across the East River overlooking the Manhattan skyline. It's truly a dream come true. Oh and I can't forget - we have two beautiful dogs and the coolest cat in the world. We're taking our love and our family to the next level and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with him!

How'd you get here? Immediately after high school, I moved to Chicago to attend film school at Columbia College.

"I had no idea what to expect and seriously took a huge risk by moving half way across the country with zero life experience. I was eighteen years old and had just come out to my parents a few months prior. Life was a whirlwind of change; I was so hungry for something new and really went out there on a whim. Fortunately, it paid off."

A few months in I met my future husband on a dating website and we hit it off almost immediately. We moved in together rather quickly because I couldn't stand living on campus and he knew it. Yuck - the thought of living so boxed in with so many rules still gives me the chills! Anyway, to pay the rent and make ends meet I held several jobs throughout college - all full time. Essentially, forty hours a week working, twenty five hours in class - plus homework, scripts, essays, and term papers...I still don't know how, but I made it work. College was good, but definitely not amazing. I feel like I learned more about making deadlines, cramming for exams, and manipulating my grades than I did about the actual film industry. I always envied the fact that many of the people I went to school with only had classes to worry about - they'd spend all of their additional time on set filming, writing, or just being creative instead of needing to make money. But, life is about getting done what you need to. Long story short, I graduated college while I was working at a massive high end salon in Lincoln Park. I became the Assistant Manager there, but life became so routine for both of us. We decided to quit our jobs, drop everything and move to New York... Crazy!

What are your goals? We have a five year plan that's pretty in depth - but one of the biggest goal for us is to have kids. There's a bit that needs to happen before that's a reality for us, but I'm so excited to build a family.

Advice for WHS Students? Growing up as a gay boy at WHS was terrifying. Even in the last ten years, society has changed tremendously - but I know there are definitely kids and teens out there going through what I (and many others) did. It's true that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, but that's easier said and understood now than it would have been then. Even early on in grade school, I knew I was different. I grew up thinking if I said or did one "wrong" thing, I'd be outed, humiliated, and shamed. I suffered terrible anxiety because I was born different than a lot of the other kids I knew. When it came to these feelings, high school was the worst! I know how hard it is and if you're like me and reading this, I just want to you to know you're not alone. There's so much to life after high school and college...it will all come together if you let it. Gay or straight - life in general is confusing. I still have to constantly remind myself to just let it all happen. I struggle with this every day, but I'm slowly learning to go with the flow, control the controllable, and appreciate everything.

What is something that bugged you today? Slow walkers make my morning commute extremely annoying.

An Earthly Townie: Jennifer Shields

Jennifer Shields, Class of 2009, Watertown CT

What are you up to? I graduated from UConn in 2013 and 2014, first with my Bachelor's in animal science and second with my Masters in curriculum and instruction. I student taught in animal science at Southington High School and was hired to continue there. I also work on a farm in town and have recently started my own soap-making business (the Bubbly Duck Soap Co) which is taking off faster than I can keep up with.

How'd you get here? WHS and Watertown was a great base for me. I learned organizational and leadership skills through outside activities, and I started to learn how to manage my time and maintain high grades while keeping up with extra curricular activities. I still talk to many of my teachers to this day, and they have been a huge help and support through my journey.

What are your goals? Expand my soap-making business, go back to school for my administrative degree, and continue doing competitive horseback riding.

Advice for WHS students?: Stay true to who you are. Don't procrastinate. Find a way to do what you want. Always act professionally, you never know who you will meet or what opportunities are there for you.

What is your fav. thing to do on Friday night? Go on a horseback trail ride or play polo.