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These are my five children. I'm so proud of them. Everyone has graduated college and one has already earned her Master's degree and we have another one on the way. (two if you count me) If you are noticing they seem a little close in age, you're right. There is only a five year span between them because there is a set of triplets in there! (and yes, it was crazy, busy, exhausting, and fun)

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Hi! I'm Mary Connell. I earned my undergradute degree at La Salle University many years ago and have returned to school after raising my family. My degree is in Marketing & English so I started working in Market Research until I chose to leave the workforce to raise my children. Over the years I've been the team mom, pizza mom, girl scout leader, substitute teacher, member of the home & school board, cross country/track coach, school secretary, etc. As my children were getting ready to move on I spent a lot of time trying to figure out what was next for me. My job as an Administrative Assistant in a high school Guidance Office opened my eyes to the school counseling professison. After so many years of taking care of others, it was a difficult to allow myself to focus on my own needs. I'm glad I found an online program that gave me the flexibility I needed in my life. I'm finishing up my last internship and will complete this program in December. I'm excited (and a little anxious) to see whats next!

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It is really the perfect match to my personality, background, and goals.
Orginally I saw myself as a high school counselor only but my middle and elementary site experiences have proven to be rewarding.
At my high school site, it is very fulfilling to work with first generation students.. My parents came from another country and there was a lot they didn't understand about the educational process. Education was a priority for them but my sisters and I faced many challenges that could have been alleviated if someone in the school was paying attention.
As a school counselor I want to:
- to help students learn by providing the needed supports/resources so they can overcome barriers to their success
- to be involved in implementation of school programs as a leader or team member
- to develop productive working relationships with members of my school community
- recognize the needs of the school community and research strategies to effectively meet those needs

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Now that my chldren are older , I am able to do some traveling with friends. It is great to have the opportunity to see new places and meet different people. This picture is from Scotland.