Student Profiles

On choosing Catholic High:

I chose to come to Catholic High because of the warm and fuzzy feeling I received when I walked through the doors. That answer sounds so cliché, but it is true. I originally only had two high schools on my list, and Catholic High was not one of them. It became my third choice when I was told that in order to send out my test scores and applications, I needed a minimum of three high schools. I reached in the pile of pamphlets and chose the pretty green and gold one. And the rest is history! Catholic High truly is a great school with dedicated faculty, lifelong friends, and an education many dream about. If you want a place where you can excel in academics, sports, leadership, and community service Catholic High is the place for you!

How Speech and Debate, offered by Catholic High, has let my light shine:

They say people fear public speaking more than they fear death. I don't know if that is true or not, but I have certainly become more fearless. I have learned the type of woman that I want to be, the type that I could be, all from learning how to give a speech. I used to fear large crowds, and view them as intimidating. Now, I am filled with a certain confidence that pushes me to new heights. I have learned how to carry myelf with pride. Speech has taught me that I am no longer content to be in the back of the crowd, but that I want to be out front, trying new things and making new friends. I have gained valuable experiences and opportunities that I didn't even know existed. Speech and Debate has provided me with lessons that I will keep for the rest of my life, things that will give me an advantage in college and beyond.

On being part of Catholic High's STEM Program:

As part of the engineering course, we take part in a special competition for students in the Maryland area. Both teams within my class have moved up to the State Competition level. Being part of Catholic High's STEM Program has taught me many valuable skills. The competition aspect has taught me teamwork and preparation. The STEM Program has also helped me discover diverse career opportunities. Women are not commonly involved in engineering, but Catholic High's STEM Program is teaching me to be confident to enter into untraditional career fields.

Why I chose Catholic High:

I chose Catholic High because of the positive family atmosphere. When I shadowed, everyone was extremely welcoming and kind. I felt as though they exemplified a true Franciscan spirit. I also chose Catholic High because I wanted to be challenged academically. The teachers always challenge me to do my best and they make learning fun! We also have small class sizes, so everyone has an opportunity to receive personal attention in the classroom. But the thing I love most about Catholic High is how we give back to the community. We have Community Service Day each year where the students, faculty, and staff go to different organizations in and around Baltimore and perform community service. Some plant trees, others serve food, and others participate in daily activities for the elderly at senior daycare centers. I am proud to be part of a school that sets everything aside for at least one day and gives back to the community by helping others. I am really looking forward to my next three years here at Catholic High!

On attraction to Catholic High:

One of my criteria in choosing a high school was to see what kind of academic programs they had. When I shadowed at Catholic High, I saw that not only are students challenged to work to their full potential, but that teachers deeply care for their students, and work hard to make the classes interesting. I love how Catholic High’s STEM Program is so hands-on. Along with the new technology in the school, I am going to get to do so much more than just reading and memorizing material from textbooks. Most importantly, Catholic High really is one big family. All the students are welcoming and kind, and the staff truly cares about the students’ education and well-being.

Sarah is a Knott Scholar.