I studied chemical engineering at the University of Maryland.

I wanted to verify Christ's call and promise that a life of radical love would fulfill me. I had a desire to live for others instead of myself, and wanted to experience the peace and joy Christ speaks of in Scripture. Lastly, I wanted to make a positive impact on the way that children were introduced to math and science. 

A mentor of mine, an assistant principle at one of our schools, helped identify a desire to serve others through my natural gifts as a leader. I was already informally mentoring many Fellows and spent lots of time in graduate school considering the formation of teachers; little did I know those interests and desires would result in a very specific role on our national team! 

I can't begin to name the whole bounty of fruits and graces I have received as a Fellow. Serving with STF was truly a life-changing gift. A very powerful influence from the fellowship was learning how to love my vocation as a lay person. It was in the everyday reality of mission, pursuing the ideal of Christ the Teacher, that I learned how to live the rest of my life as a Christian on earth, accepting the daily bread that God has given me for my sanctification in preparation to be in Heaven with Him.

I wanted to be a Seton Teaching Fellow because I desired students who attended public schools to have the opportunity for a good Catholic education. They need to know Christ too! I also wanted to serve in a meaningful way, and after studying economics, I was committed to not worrying about making money after college.

Man made money, money does not make the man! 

Honestly, I just wanted to do God's will. He gave me the gifts, experiences, and challenges I need to grow and serve, and my new role as a program lead has clearly been a path He laid before me.

As a Fellow, I worked for God. That hasn't left me, and that's how I've approached work ever since. My time as a Fellow taught what is important in life—God comes first, and then the people around you. I've been blessed to see the people at work as friends too!

I double majored in elementary education and elementary science & math. I also minored in Catholic Studies!

As an education major, Seton Teaching Fellows not only fulfilled my desire to teach, but also my desire to serve. When comparing teaching in a Catholic School in my hometown and STF, the communities that STF serve stood out. I knew God was providing me an opportunity to challenge myself and provide kids the Catholic education they may otherwise not receive. I also saw so much love in my own Fellows' community - as well as care and authenticity to serve the common good of the neighborhood there.

As much as I loved working with kids and being in the classroom, I knew early on in my career that I wanted to pursue a more technical and administrative role within K-12 education. After teaching for five years, I was called back to Seton! In my current role, I am able to work for an educational organization with strong Catholic values, and I'm developing amazing professional skills that have helped me grow in a career outside the classroom.

My Fellow year made my heart bigger, especially in understanding and loving those around me. It also helped me to be open to God's plan and His desire for my life. As JPII said, "life with Christ is a wonderful adventure."

I earned my bachelor's degree in elementary education from Illinois State University.

My fellow year instilled in me a deep sense of the mission at Brilla. Every action I take is driven by a commitment to serve our scholars, their families and our community.