Faculty Spotlight: Emily McDonnell

College/ Degrees:  St. Lawrence University, B.A. in Government and M.Ed. in School Counseling

Years of service: Two years at Fryeburg Academy

Role: School Counselor

Fun fact:
Mrs. McDonnell can say any word backward. (Please don’t ask her to say the famous long word from Mary Poppins backward - she is tired of that request.) 

Background:
Mrs. McDonnell grew up about half an hour away from Fryeburg.  After attending college in upstate New York, she lived in Chicago, Wyoming, Idaho, and New York State again before returning to Maine.  She and her husband have four children, two of whom are current FA students.  

Why did you become a school counselor?
During college and afterward, I frequently worked with young people in various capacities.  I worked at a summer camp as a tutor, a nanny, and a substitute teacher. I most enjoyed working individually with students, and school counseling was a way to do that.  I also previously worked in Career Services at a college, where I loved helping students explore their interests and consider the types of careers they would enjoy in the future. 

What is your favorite aspect of being a school counselor?
I enjoy being a point person for students, someone who can be involved in various aspects of their school life.  I enjoy being there for them at whatever stage they are in on their personal journey - and then I get to stay with them throughout their entire high school experience, which is rewarding.  

Memorable counseling moment?
Any time a student leaves my office feeling a little less stressed or a bit more confident about whatever challenge they are currently facing, it is a success. 

How would your students describe you? 
I hope they say that I am a good listener and that I am here for them when they need someone to talk to.  However, I also hope they would say that I am action-oriented and someone who can help them set and achieve goals. I’m a big fan of to-do lists.

Is there anything from your experience as a student that has influenced you as a school counselor?
As a high school student, I loved thinking about and planning for my future - but I know not everyone thinks that is fun.  I also was someone who didn’t actively seek out help from adults at school and could have probably flown under the radar.  I recognize that not all students may choose to access - or even know they have - a counselor, which is why I strive to make myself visible and available.

Advice for students?
No question you have is too silly.  No issue you have is too insignificant.  People at school want to help - counselors and teachers - so reach out.