I am currently a full-time Speech and Language Pathologist at a private practice as well as an indoor cycling instructor at Equinox Sports Clubs and the Community Manager for a start-up company, Instructor.
What was your educational path after graduating from St. Mary School?
I attended Lauralton Hall and then went on to undergraduate at Elmira College in upstate New York. I attended graduate school at Mercy College and received a Masters Degree in Communication Disorders.
What volunteer efforts are you involved with?
I participate each year in a fundraising event called Cycle for Survival. The event raises money for rare cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering. This past year, I raised over $4,200 and biked for 4 consecutive hours logging 70 miles.
How do you feel SMS prepared you academically?
I can remember some incredible teachers at SMS. There are a few that really stand out as being exceptional educators. Teaching is truly an art and the teachers that stand out mastered the ability to not just present information but make it meaningful. There are also educators who motivate their students by their presence alone. There were teachers I had who drove me to work hard because I admired who they were as people and I wanted to make them proud.
Do you feel SMS provided you with a foundation for your future?
I think that SMS had an incredible community when I was a student there. It is a community that I am still tied to, to this day. Looking back, the academics were important but a true measure of success is how one can navigate throughout their life socially and emotionally. Being a part of a tight-knit community prepared me in a very important way. It taught me the importance of curating an environment that supports you and propels you forward.
What are some of your favorite memories of SMS?
I know I’m biased, but I think my classmates were some of the funniest people I have ever met. I remember laughing with my peers until my stomach hurt. Memories like that, you can’t beat!
What are your plans for the future?
About 2 years ago I created a platform called Adapt Do Repeat which promotes resilience and creating your best self. It also documents my adaptive fitness journey. Recently, I was asked to be an ambassador for Lululemon. I hope to continue to capitalize on all these amazing opportunities in order to influence others to push past their perceived limits. I’m a pretty busy person but everything I’m involved in are things I’m passionate about so they feel less like work and more like just a part of who I am.
What advice can you give to our students?
Put the devices down and go outside! Talk to your friends, ask them questions about themselves and develop deep and meaningful friendships!
