From Staff to Seniors: Advice for College & Beyond

With the end of high school approaching fast for Notre Dame’s Stingrays, the faculty and staff was asked to provide a word of advice or encouragement for them. Here’s what they had to say – heed their words wisely!

“Don't give up on anyone, including yourself — and never lock the door behind you!”

- Mr. Allen

“Always make sure your cup is full before you start pouring into others.” - Mrs. Beck

“Stay in touch with the friends you’ve made here. New friends are silver, but old friends are gold.  You will find that their support and shared history provide unique warmth and support when it really matters.” - Dr. Bloch (and an old friend!)

“Hi Stingrays! So excited for you to take on the next stage of life! My advice to you is to try new things, ask questions, stay connected and remember it is okay to make mistakes. The relationships and skills you built at ND will come in handy as you take on new challenges. Wishing you all the best!” 

- Ms. Cabral

“'A woman of genius makes no mistakes. Her errors are volitional and are the portals of discovery.' - James Joyce"  - Ms. Carroll

“Stay connected with ND and take advantage of the alum network and resources!

- Ms. Gomez

“Take a few classes that are just for fun! This is the best time to explore and dive into interesting topics it may be harder to learn about once you leave!” - Ms. Krent

“Every path leads to discovery so there is no wrong turn!” - Ms. Lohngoen

"Care for your community and allow your community to care for you. Don't be afraid to ask for help!" - Ms. Montgomery

“Believe in Your Self, as We DO!!” - Mrs. Nash

“Travel, travel, travel-- see the world, either in a year abroad program or even a semester or summer.” - Ms. Orr

“Challenge yourself!!! Aim high, reach to the stars!!!” - Mrs. Petrova

“Don't lose the present in search of the future -- the here and now is beautiful and it goes by in the blink of an eye.” - Ms. Rayarikar

“Children make friends on the playground in an instant and weep when they have to go home. You are no longer children. Find your people, hold on to them tight, and keep your friendships forever.” - Mr. Ringsted

“Moving to the northeast or the midwest? Invest in good snow boots. Your Uggs will not serve you.” - Mrs. Rome-Floyd

“My hope for you is that you can remember how loved you are! Be loved, share love, radiate love... and when you face hard choices, let love be your guide.” - Mrs. Savino

“Step outside your comfort zone and try new things!” - Mr. Teder

“It's always great to have a plan in life but make sure you keep things open for side tracks and the unexpected.  So many of the roads I took in my schooling and career were opportunities that presented themselves that I never could have planned or predicted. For example, I never thought I wanted to work in a school but it's turned out to be my dream job.” - Ms. Valentine