A veteran teacher answers the question, ‘Why Catholic schools?’
A new school year at our Catholic schools is underway. It is an exciting time filled with much anticipation. From the itty-bitty little ones to the more mature high school students and beyond, a new school year always brings a zest and thrill. As college freshmen descend on their dorms this fall, many will hear the same question over and over that we all vividly remember, “What is your major?” For some, it is an easy question sparking a quick response such as nursing, engineering, or perhaps cybersecurity. For others, it may still be unanswered and produce some anxiety.
For me, the answer came rather quickly. After my first semester at the University of Maryland, I declared journalism as my major. It seemed like the perfect route for me as I aspired to write one day for The Washington Post. Quickly, I discovered that aspirations don’t always match reality, especially when the country is experiencing an economic downturn in the form of a recession. Fortunately, I was able to find a job in my field. Not at The Washington Post, but across the street as an editorial assistant for a health association is where I landed.
For a while, this job had all the makings of a perfect fit. The opportunity to ride the Metro into the nation’s capital every day and be part of the hustle and bustle was initially glamorous. Lunches across the street from the White House in Lafayette Park and happy hours after work with friends provided some fun times.