CSB alumna shares insight into her experience in education

Q: What was your educational journey like? Was it a straight path or did it change around alot?

I began my journey at CSB with a desire to become a physical therapist. Most women in those days were either becoming teachers or nurses, so I wanted to do something drastically different. I dove right into my science classes and enjoyed learning all of the content, but then I encountered Organic Chemistry. It was like trying to learn in a different language. Unfortunately, I was too stubborn, proud or just plain pig-headed to ask for help, so I failed the class. I was blessed with great friends who helped me through that bump. I ended up changing my major to natural science, which was broad and offered many employment opportunities. So, my journey was definitely not a straight path, but not real crooked either. I never did work in the science field, but I don’t regret any part of my CSB education. It helped shape me into the person I am today.

After graduation, I joined a volunteer organization based in Colorado. The organization was Volunteers in Diocesan Action (VIDA). It was a huge step for me and way out of my comfort zone. I was traveling to a place where I didn’t know anyone. That experience helped me to find myself and who I really was. I believed I was shy and lacked confidence, but I discovered I excel at relating to others. I still maintain some of the relationships that I established during that time.

Q: Did you stay close with friends and other community members after graduating?

I have stayed close with friends that I met at St. Ben’s; in fact, we have traveled together several times and keep in touch via text, email and phone calls. Our friendships are very special to me. These women are people who know me very well and with whom I can bare my soul. I’m not sure that I would have such close friends if I hadn’t been a part of the CSB community all those years ago.

Most of the faculty members I knew back then have either retired or passed away. Some of the sisters are still around, which amazes me. Whenever I am back on campus, I try to spend some time with the sisters because they were a special part of my time at St. Ben’s.