By Emily Luong, Ellie Kalemkeridis, Emily Rogerson, and Hiromi Kondo
Throughout a teenager’s high school experience, he or she encounters many overwhelming tasks and obstacles which take a toll on them not only academically, but also emotionally. Coupled with the pressure to get passing grades and do well in school, social pressures can weigh down the student, causing an even greater struggle. Yet, students sometimes forget they have many outlets they can reach or when they need help – one of these being a school guidance counselor. With the help and support of this individual, they can reach success in school while having someone they can trust when they need a helping hand.
In the beginning of 2013-2014 school year, Walpole High School accepted not only freshmen into its ranks, but staff members as well. Numerous new teachers and aids were faced with the common first day anxiety as the adjusted to their new surroundings. But one new staff member focused more on the adjustment of the students: Elizabeth Doran, who has joined Walpole High as a part of the Guidance Department.
After graduating from Amherst Regional High and Colby College for undergraduate and Lesley University for graduate school, she started to gain experience in counseling. Although Walpole high school is her first professional employer, last year she was a graduate intern at Boston Latin Academy.
Doran has quite the knack for working with students and educating them with her benevolent attitude and cheerful motivation. She said, “Whether it’s talking about college or an academic issue or a social issue or fights with friends or an issue with a teacher, I think just really getting to talk with students about what’s going on in their lives and helping them help themselves are the best parts about being a counselor.” Ms. Doran’s enthusiasm about her job shows the dedication and time she puts in to assist those who are in need of help.
Despite the nerves that may come with a new job and new surroundings, Ms. Doran’s first day with students at Walpole high went great. She said, “There’s a really nice energy about working in a high school.” Shown by her strong support of the school, Ms. Doran looks forward to relieving the pressures of school and helping Walpole High School students with their issues.
