Editor’s Note: This article was also published in the Benet Herald 2025 Graduation Edition.
How did you develop your strong work ethic?
A strong work ethic is not something that I feel I have developed, but rather, an integral component of my personality. My parents often recall old stories highlighting my stubbornness in working to accomplish whatever I set my mind to, whether that was learning how to play a new sport like hockey or volleyball, studying for an elementary school test, or practicing new skills I learned at dance class. Years of ballet training specifically reinforced my pre-existing traits of discipline, perseverance, and perfectionism, which I have channeled towards academic achievement.
Benet Academy is full of intelligent and hard-working students. What did you do to set yourself apart?
My academic success can mostly be attributed to my perfectionist personality, which is sometimes my greatest weakness. That being said, receiving the title of Salutatorian came as a major surprise to me as I do not feel that I have done anything to set myself apart from so many students at Benet especially in terms of intelligence and work ethic. If grade point average was an effective measurement of intellect and dedication, I would certainly not have been appointed the privilege of addressing my class at graduation this year. I have spent the majority of my time at Benet working to stop obsessing over my grades, and I applaud Benet’s class of 2025, which is full of intelligent and hard-working students that I feel grateful to have grown and learned beside.
What are your college plans? Where are you going, and what are you studying?
Next year I will attend Purdue University with a major in Exploratory Studies.
What advice do you have for future Benet Academy students? If you could have a Benet Academy do- over, what would you do differently?
I would tell future Benet Academy students that you can prioritize your education and academic goals while also making time for the activities and people you love. Academic achievement means nothing if it comes at the price of your health and happiness. Although I would not change anything that has happened or that I have done, I would keep this in mind to focus on balance if I could have a Benet do -over.
Who would you like to thank for influencing, motivating, or supporting you?
I could thank my parents all day for all of the constant love, support, time, and money they have invested in me for the past eighteen years and it would never be enough. I do not think that anything I ever do or say could properly encapsulate my love and appreciation for them. I would also like to extend gratitude to all of my teachers over the past four years in addition to my counselors, Mr. Oconer and Mrs. Wesley.
Who is/are your role model(s)?
Being the youngest sibling of four, I am blessed to have grown up with three of my greatest role models. My brother Lloyd is one of the smartest yet most humble people I know and knows how to stay calm in every situation. My sister Caelin reminds me what it means to live a balanced lifestyle. She stays driven in pursuit of her personal and professional goals while never turning down an opportunity to enjoy life and support the people in her life. My sister Ryann is so confident and fun; she always brightens the mood with her infectious laugh and sense of humor.
What would you like the Benet Academy community to know about you? What would surprise people about you?
Those who know me also know that I would never miss an opportunity to bring up my dogs, two golden retrievers named Moose and Tucker. I enjoy volunteering at the Naperville Humane Society, shopping for food and toys to donate to animal shelters, and greeting every dog I encounter, which may not come as a surprise to those who have seen me risk being late to class to pet Greta.
What is your favorite Benet Academy memory?
My favorite memory from Benet Academy would have to be going on the Logos retreat in February, which allowed me to take a break from the noise of life and reflect on what is truly important. Although most descriptions of Logos are rather secretive and ambiguous in order to preserve certain surprising elements for future attendees, I can say that Logos is one of a senior’s best chances to connect with those you may only see during passing periods. I would encourage every Benet student to take advantage of this opportunity in order to grow closer to their classmates and strengthen their faith before entering college.
