As seniors are wrapping up their high school careers and getting ready to walk across that stage, it is the perfect time to think about those who have helped them reach this milestone. Though all seniors work hard to get to where they are, it is important to recognize those who greatly aided their success. This includes family members who saw their potential, friends who supported them during difficult times and teachers who pushed them to succeed.

Jennifer Elwood

Senior Jennifer Elwood reflects on her high school experience and explains that there was not just one specific person who helped her. Small acts of kindness helped her throughout her high school years.
“Looking back on my high school journey, it’s mainly my friends and family,” shared Elwood. “A shoulder to lean on, to cry or to vent and have a fun time with to get my mind off of things. I don’t think I would’ve gotten through high school without all of them working together to support me.”
When asked to give advice to younger students to help appreciate those who support them, Elwood commented on the importance of gratitude.
“I think you have to remember to say how much you appreciate them, you can’t assume that someone can read your mind [and] actions. Take the time to make sure that they know that you appreciate them because it is so important,” she added. “Right now, going off to college soon I’m really trying to spend time with my family because I realized I don’t have the same time and relationships with these people, so it’s really important to make sure that you let them know how much you care.”

Kiersten Pfeiffer

Kirsten Pfeiffer gives an insight into her high school journey by explaining her connection with Social Sciences teacher Wendy Connolly.
“Someone whos had the biggest impact on me…was definitely Mrs. Connolly. Our relationship began when I swam with her [in] my freshman year and she saw the potential I had to be a competitive swimmer for Notre Dame,” shared Pfieiffer. “I think it’s definitely really important to build a relationship with your teachers and staff members because they are always willing to give you advice or guide you through personal and academic struggles.”
She also emphasized the importance of forming deep connections with those who contribute to helping us.
“ I think it’s definitely important to show your appreciation or gratitude towards those that help you … sometimes we can get caught up in our own … struggles in school that we don’t acknowledge or thank the people that really guided us and helped us the most.” she added. “ Honestly, most of the staff at Notre Dame just want the best [for] their students, so really just acknowledging that they helped you can be something really nice for them.”
As Jennifer and Kirsten explain that their journeys were not just formed by their own strength and determination, but by those who helped them along the way. Each person mentioned, whether it is a teacher, coach, mentor or parent helped them thrive in their high school careers.