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!)

You're Invited: WHS Alumni Winter Recital

In partnership with fellow WHS Alumna and pianist, Alexandra Saraceno, we invite WHS musical alumni and the Watertown community to the old Watertown library, Walker Hall, (50 DeForest Street, Watertown) for our first WHS Alumni Winter Recital on Saturday, January 4, 2020 at 6:30pm. Come enjoy classical music, bring a date, get dressed up, and enjoy!

PARKING is available in the Congregational Church next door - though we want to note their parking lot lights are broken. We will have someone outside with a flashlight to guide you, if necessary. There is also parking available at Woodward Chapel, a short walking distance from Walker Hall.

WHS students are encouraged to attend and meet with musicians after their performances to ask any questions about life after high school pursuing music.

Please RSVP to this event on Facebook if you are going to attend. The event is free with a $10 or $20 donation suggestion at the door.RSVP on Facebook here: www.facebook.com/events/634600150680884

We sincerely hope you can join us in this celebration of local pride and musical pursuits!

Our confirmed musicians and vocalists:

Alexandra Saraceno, Class of 2010, New York, New York

Alexandra Saraceno began her piano studies at a young age in Watertown, Connecticut. An active soloist and collaborator, she has performed at various venues and festivals throughout the country. A graduate of Western Connecticut State University, Alexandra studied with Russell Hirshfield and received her Bachelor of Music degree with a philosophy minor. She continued her studies at New York University, studying with Marilyn Nonken, to pursue a Master of Music in piano performance and an Advanced Certificate in piano performance and pedagogy. 

Past engagements include Spectrum’s Modern Piano (+) Festival Hommage à Messiaen recital, Mark Mothersbaugh’s Music for Six-Sided Keyboard in conjunction with Motherbaugh’s Myopia exhibition organized by the Grey Art Gallery; George Antheil’s Ballet Mécanique for four pianos and Philip Glass’s The Fall of the House of Usher with NYU’s Contemporary Music Ensemble directed and conducted by Jonathan Haas; History of American Music Community Arts Program (soloist) at Symphony Space directed by David Rosenmeyer; and the Arts for Mexico and Puerto Rico Benefit Gala Concert at Hunter College.

Alexandra’s affinity for contemporary music has led to collaborating with composers, performing with NYU’s Contemporary Music Ensemble, New Music and Dance Ensemble, WCSU’s New Music Ensemble, and premiering works for solo piano, chamber ensemble, and orchestra. A sought-after teacher, Alexandra has cultivated a comprehensive approach through her work at the Center for Creative Youth at Wesleyan University, the School of Visual and Performing Arts at Western Connecticut State University, and the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University as adjunct piano instructor, and throughout the New York City public schools.

Amber Wood, Class of 2007, Baltimore, MD

Amber Wood is a 3rd grade teacher in the public school system, a voice teacher at Artist Music Academy, and a company member of the Stillpointe Theatre Initiative. She first developed her love for  the performing arts singing in various children’s choirs and musicals. She also began playing piano at the age of 5 and studied at the Hartt School of Music during her adolescence. After performing in the musicals at Watertown High School, The Warner Theatre, and the Thomaston Opera House during her teen years, she went on to major in Musical Theatre Performance and received her B.F.A. from Ithaca College in 2011. After graduation, she became the Interim Director of Music at the Watertown Congregational Church before moving to NYC and performing at various theaters throughout the Tri-State area. In 2014 she was accepted into the Teach For America Program and moved to Baltimore, where she continues to perform. In 2016, she received her Masters of Science in Education from Johns Hopkins University.

Christine Manalo, Class of 2014, Bethel, Connecticut

Christine Manalo is a pianist, organist, and operatic soprano based in Western Connecticut. As a native of Watertown, CT, she privately studied piano with Ms. Anna Jedd and continued to pursue her love for music. Under the direction of Ms. Jedd, she was a singer in the Litchfield County Children’s Choir, where she was able to perform with the Connecticut Choral Society and CT Master Chorale. Through these experiences, she was given the opportunity to perform on the Lincoln Center stage. 

She is currently the Choir Director at Bethel High School, where she leads two choirs, as well as Keyboarding and Adaptive Music. She collaborates actively with the BHS Symphonic Band and Orchestra, and currently resides as the Music Director for their mainstage musical production. She is a recent WCSU graduate, earning her B.S. Music Education degree, where she studied classical voice with Laura Mashburn, and classical piano with Dr. Russell Hirshfield. She is the winner of the 2018 James Furman Honors competition, and recently placed first in the Upper College Women’s Division in New England National Association of Teachers Singing (NATS). 

Past stage credits include Hansel ünd Gretel (Gretel) at WCSU, which was selected as the 1st Place Winner in the National Opera Assocation Competition; The Magic Flute (Second Spirit) at Yale Opera, and Die Zauberflote (Pamina).

Additionally, Christine is an active organist and pianist. She has previously served as the Music Coordinator and Pianist for Union Congregational Church in Oakville, and now currently presides as the organist at All Saints Episcopal Church in Watertown. 

Linda Norton, Class of 2004, Watertown, Connecticut

Linda Norton is a local business owner and performer. Linda has been singing in choirs since second grade, and was a member of the WHS choir from 2000-2004. She went onto Naugatuck Community College and joined their choir and opera society and ensemble. While pursuing her associates degree in Liberal Arts, she also attended music classes such as Music Theory and Ear Training. Now she owns Relaxing Getaway Massage in Watertown, and she’s also a member of the Hartford Chorale where she has been singing second soprano for two years.

Call for Musicians: WHS Alumni Winter Recital

In partnership with fellow WHS Alumna and pianist, Alex Saraceno, we invite WHS musical alumni to share your talent and craft with the community this January at the old Watertown library for our first Alumni Recital on January 4, 2020.

This is not an open mic; instead, we aim to program any chamber or solo works up to ten minutes. We’re looking to program art song and classical music. We’re hoping to fill 6 spots with Watertown talent in a magical winter program. We’ll be inviting Watertown High School students and their families to enjoy the program while also being able to chat with alumni after the event about their musical pursuits and what they are doing now.

If you are interested, please get in touch and e-mail us at stories@townmag.co. We’re excited to be hosting an event like this!

We sincerely hope you can join us in this celebration of local pride and musical pursuits!

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.

WHS Alumni Night

Watertown High School and TOWN are partnering to host Alumni Night at the WHS football game on October 25, 2019 7:00pm. We'll have alumni contests, bites from local vendors, and town pride swag to purchase. We’re excited to enjoy a beautiful Fall weekend with the community. This alumni event is for all WHS alumni, not just football players! Swing by our booth to buy t-shirts, postcards and taste-test delicious food from local alumni vendors.

Alumni Contests:

Most Vintage Watertown High School Swag: Still have your letter jacket from class of ‘75? Bring it to the game to enter to win, we’ll be giving out a prize to the person who has the most vintage WHS swag.

Class With Most Attendees: Bring your friends from your graduating class! Swing by our booth and let us know what class you graduated in, and during halftime we’ll announce which class wins.

Halftime Football Pass: Get your football game on and get out in the field. This is for you, alumni football players. Catch a pass and win a prize!

Alumni Vendors:

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

We’re excited we’ll be serving snacks from Sunset Grille, Labonne’s and Fino Pizza.

We’re looking for local food vendors to supply samples from their business at WHS Alumni Night. We’d love to promote your business, we’ll add your logo to our advertisements and booth, and give out some delish local treats to alumni. Contact stories@townmag.co if you’re interested!

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

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.

Sponsor Highlight: LaBonne's Markets

We’re so excited that Robert LaBonne Jr., CEO of LaBonne's Markets is a 2019 sponsor. LaBonne’s has sponsored TOWN now for two years. LaBonne’s is a vital part of the Watertown community, from hiring WHS students and graduates to providing important weekly groceries to the neighborhood.

Located in Watertown, Woodbury, and Salsbury LaBonne’s has been in the area since the early 1900’s. By delivering fresh fish and meat directly to local families and businesses, George LaBonne, LaBonne's progenitor, knew that his customers were getting the freshest goods possible. Fast forward, Bob Jr purchased the business from his father, Bob LaBonne Sr in 2011.

From horse and buggy, to main street butcher shop, to three stores and over 300 associates, Labonne's has an important history in our town. We couldn't be more excited that they support us and our efforts.

If you’re looking for great groceries in your neighborhood and you’re tired of the chain super markets, LaBonne’s is the place to go. Visit their website to learn more: https://labonnes.com/

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.

We’re raising money! Join us in our TOWN 2019 Fundraiser

TOWN Mag has big plans for this year, and we need your help. We’re launching a GoFundMe campaign for TOWN to raise $2,000+ dollars for expenses that comes with keeping website up-and-running, spreading the word, and growth. We'll be promoting this campaign for the month of August to kick off the school year. 

If we reach our goal of $2,000+ we can

1) Keep the site up and running for the next two years

2) Hire alumni to help us write, design, and capture content for the platform

3) Pursue our plan to make a pilot program that other schools in the area can participate in

4) Make donations to students and groups in the local area

5) Inspire and inform more WHS students than ever before!

TOWN is a non-profit and start-up. All time efforts are donated by the community or contractors that are paid with what we can. If you love what we’re doing and see that it’s working, please donate today! If you donate $50+ you can get a free town magnet sent to you to show your TOWN pride.

Every donation counts, even small ones. Your contribution would be a small step toward something really big. and we couldn't be happier.

Sponsor Highlight: The Quiet Zone

Howie Fischthal, owner of The Quiet Zone is a Watertown High School alumus and long time Watertown resident, is one of our 2019 Sponsors. Howie has been running the Quiet Zone Bantam and expanding their business throughout the state of Connecticut for almost 30 years. The first Quiet Zone opened in Thomaston in 1990, and since then they’ve opened 4 new shops in Bantam, Watertown, Torrington, and Orange. It’s always been a family business, and you’ll feel like you’re welcomed into the family the second you walk into the door.

Howie has sponsored TOWN now for 3 years, which makes a huge difference in keeping us up and running.

If you’re looking for serious quality car repair and really great customer service, this is your place. You may often assume that they have to return to the dealership to receive quality services. Not true! The Quiet Zone is always ready to receive your vehicle’s repair needs.

If you’ve got some car trouble, looking for a new mechanic, or just need a tune up, visit their website to get in touch: https://quietzonect.com

Sponsor Highlight: Rodan + Fields, Julie Weidemier

Julie Weidemier is our latest TOWN supporter and we’re so excited she’s helping us achieve our goals. A longtime resident of Watertown, Julie is a Director of Continuous Improvement at Cerner Corporation and additionally has set out to create her own small business with Rodan + Fields, selling quality skincare, especially focused on treating acne. She knew TOWN would be a great cause to support while spreading the word about her business!

Julie went to Sacred Heart High School and worked at Waterbury hospital as an RN for 15+ years. She’s an integral part of the Watertown community, her mother Corky Plourde has owned and run numerous Watertown restaurants, her sister, Monica Keane Quadrato, is a Watertown educator, and her daughter, Miranda Weidemier, is head cheerleading coach at WHS! Seriously, integral to the Watertown community.

If you’re having skincare issues or just need some solid inspiration, Julie is your girl!

If you’re interested in following her business, follow her instagram @juliern or check out her online shop!

Townies Talk 2019

Our second Townies Talk 2019 event was a success! On April 8th, at least 60 Watertown High School students filed into the assembly room. Alumni told their stories about wildly different paths in life and gave great advice while students listened. It was so fantastic to be offline and in reality. We appreciate the teachers who encouraged students to attend the event and we think the 90 minutes was valuable time that not only helped students understand specific careers paths, but also life in general. 

The following day was Sophomore Career Day, ran by Nicole Lewis and Linda Bellemare. On April 9th, 54 volunteers from the community came to Watertown High School to speak with sophomores about their careers. Over 75% of the speakers were Watertown High School Alumni. Students learned about the necessary skills, training, and education to enter each field. Students also got to learn about what a typical day working in each field is like. This Career Day event will better help prepare sophomores before they enter junior year and begin to focus on taking courses tailored to their potential career paths and preparing for the SATs.

Thank you to all of the alumni that came out for the event, the teachers who organized, and the students who listened to our stories.

This year we brought a video crew to document the event, with hopes of creating better TOWN content. Stay tuned!

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.

2019 TOWN Sponsors

We’re so excited we have new community sponsors, Julie Weidemier from Rodan + Fields and Pete Catuccio from Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Centers. Thank you for contributing to TOWN! Read more about each of our 2019 sponsors below.

Rodan + Fields - Julie Weidemier

Julie Weidemier a longtime resident of Watertown and the mother of the amazing alumna cheerleading coach for WHS. Julie has set out to create her own small business with Rodan + Fields, selling quality skincare, especially focused on treating acne and knew TOWN would be a great cause to support while spreading the word about her business! Thank you, Julie.

Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine - Pete Catuccio

Every athlete in Watertown knows Pete, also a WHS so it makes sense that Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Watertown is a new 2019 sponsor (not to mention he is a Watertown Alumni). Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Centers Watertown is a staple in the Watertown athletic community and for students at Watertown High School. Conveniently located right on Depot Street in Watertown, Connecticut they are committed to providing the very best physical therapy care in Watertown. Thank you, Pete.

The Quiet Zone - Howie Fischthal

The Quiet Zone has a few locations around Connecticut, but owner Howie Fischthal is a WHS alum from good ole' Watertown. The Quiet Zone has sponsored TOWN now for 3 years. You can find quality car repair services at their many locations throughout the state, the closest being in Bantam or Watertown, Connecticut. Their expert technicians can be found in shops throughout southern and western Connecticut. Owners often assume that they have to return to the dealership to receive quality services. Not true! The Quiet Zone is always ready to receive your vehicle’s repair needs. Thank you, Howie.

LaBonne’s Markets - Bob LaBonne Jr.

Who hasn’t had a part time job at LaBonne’s Watertown? Bob LaBonne Jr., another WHS alum, has sponsored TOWN now for 2 years. The LaBonne name became known for quality meat and fish. From these two freshness-driven categories, the LaBonne's began venturing into other linked areas, offering a small selection of vegetables and other edibles. The resulting customer-experience with the LaBonne family would remain one of finding consistently high-quality goods surpassed, only on occasion, by superior customer-care and service. Thank you, Bob!

B. Murphy Building - Brian Murphy

B. Murphy Building, another Watertown alumn and also the father to the creator of TOWN, so pretty much just a given sponsor. B. Murphy Building works on commercial and residential remodels and additions throughout Connecticut, focusing on exceptional modern design and details. Their latest project is a home remodel in Harwinton, CT, which is currently up for sale! Thank you, Dad.

Past Sponsors

Thank you to past sponsors who have contributed to the growth of TOWN, CrossFit Reload, Crystal Rock, and Fino Pizzeria.