The OLMA Overview -- February 28, 2020
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This is my favorite time of year for OLMA juniors. This class, a powerhouse from day one, participated in Mock Interviews on Thursday. They came in real-world interview dress with resumes in hand and butterflies in their stomachs. Knowing these girls, I'm quite sure the butterflies were part nerves and part excitement as this class of young women lets nothing stand in their way of success. We were fortunate to have a wide variety of Human Resources and Education professionals on campus conducting interviews.
In a couple of weeks, these same students will give their career interests a test drive as part of our Job Shadow Program. Our students will be paired with professionals in companies, and organizations all over South Jersey. Some of them include NFI, Cross Keys Veterinary Hospital, The Farm Pediatrics, and Inspira.
Year after year, we see the benefits of this program as the girls return with a much clearer understanding of what they want -- and don't want -- out of a career.
As the year progresses, juniors will dive more deeply into the college planning process. They will begin working on the Common Application, college essays, and request letters of recommendation. This summer, we will offer two college tour trips (open to rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors) and an essay writing boot camp. It all comes down to preparation and support.
As the juniors ramp up on planning, OLMA seniors are in the final stages of deciding where they will attend college. It's an exciting time for sure. I'm still in denial that my "first class" will soon be graduating, but I am super pumped for them. Senior trip is just days away.
Freshmen and sophomores also did some confidence building this week as part of the L2T Program. Students in both grades are in the midst of delivering their "How To" presentations as part of Public Speaking class. They are doing a fantastic job. Having taught a section of that class last year, I can attest to the growth that happens between the first speech in the series and the last.
I want to close by thanking everyone who played a part in making this year's Roaring Twenties 50-50 event such a huge success. It was a wonderful evening and will help fund the new and improved OLMA Cafe. Renovations begin this summer. Have a fantastic weekend. -- Mrs. Coyle
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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT:
MEET MADISON SPRINGER, CLASS OF 2020
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If you are looking for a stock tip, this OLMA senior, may be the one to ask. While Madison "Madi" Springer has her heart set on pursuing a career as an elementary school teacher, she seems to have a knack for Business. "I decided to take Business this year as an elective and really enjoyed it," said Madi. "One of the best parts was playing the Stock Market Game. We each had $100,000 to invest. We did research, bought and sold stocks, and learned about how the market works." Over a 10-week period, Madi and her classmates competed with hundreds of students from schools all over South Jersey. Madi finished in the top 10, which is no easy feat. She credits her success to lots of research and a bit of good luck, but we think she just might be on to something.
Madi was a newcomer to Catholic School when she started at OLMA. "I always went to public school," she said. "OLMA is completely different, especially when it comes to the people. Everyone is welcoming and kind, which is what made me want to come here." Madi said that she learned to learn while at OLMA. "Freshmen year was a struggle academically because I wasn't used to all of the homework and studying, but I figured it out."
That she did. Along the way, she played soccer for her first two years before joining OLMA's first-ever field hockey team as a junior. "The Field Hockey team was great," said Madi. "We were all very close and had a great season." In addition to sports, Madi is in her fourth year with the Interact Club. "I really enjoy it because we do something every week," she said. "I've learned that the simplest things, like cards, or a decorated lunch bag, can make a big difference to the people who receive them."
When asked to look back on the last four years, Madi said that the two Mini-Mesters she participated in made a huge impact. "I went to Canada in my sophomore year," she said, "I had never been much further than Philadelphia, so going to another country was a big deal." In her junior year, Madi stepped way out of her comfort zone as part of the Biodiversity course. She traveled to Cedar Key, FL and swam with the manatees. That's something she says she will never forget.
While college is next, Madi is still weighing her options. For now, she plans to finish strong and enjoy the rest of senior year.
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The OLMA Villagers Basketball team will host the first round of the NJ State Tournament on Tuesday at 5:30 PM. With one more victory, the team will tie the all-time record for the most wins in school history!
The night's theme will be a WHITEOUT so let's fill the stands with as much white as you can wear. Students can wear white out t-shirts on Tuesday. All students who attend will receive a dress down pass to use on a future day.
If you can't make the game, you can watch live on Facebook on the BFA Productions page.
The halftime show will feature special honors for OLMA's CAL Championship Soccer team. Join us for a great night in support of OLMA Athletics.
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SPEAKING OF CONFIDENCE...
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Countless studies show that many people fear public speaking more than anything else, including death. At OLMA we are chipping away at that statistic by giving students the skills they need to deliver a wide variety of speeches and presentations with confidence. This week, freshmen and sophomores presented their "How-To" speeches. They were fantastic. Here are a few photo and fun (hyperlapse) video highlights! Great job, girls!
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NURSES AND ENGINEERS NEEDED
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If you are a nurse or engineer, or know someone who is, we want to know! Our Junior Job Shadow Day is quickly approaching and we have student requests for nurses and engineers that still need filling. If you can help, please contact Mrs. Szawlewicz at (856) 697-2008, ext. 420. This program enables students to explore career possibilities by trying them first. Thank you!
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Did you know that you could give one super power blood donation that may have the same impact as two donations? It's called Power Red.
Watch the video below to learn more about it. Then, sign up to donate in a Power Red slot at the OLMA drive on March 16. It runs from 8:30 AM -- 1:30 PM and 3-8 PM! Everyone over 16 years of age is invited to donate.
You can sign up with a Blood Drive committee member during lunch periods, by phone at 1-800-REDCROSS or online at REDCROSSBLOOD.ORG.
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IT'S ALL ABOUT THE BAG ON APRIL 4
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Designer Bag BINGO is back at OLMA on Saturday, April 4th. Tickets are $35 each and include 12 games (with three cards for each), coffee, tea, and desserts. The evening will also feature a special 13th game and raffle baskets. This event sells out, so get your tickets while they last by contacting Mrs. Cusick at mrs.cusick@olmanj.org. You may also send your ticket request and payment to Mrs. Cusick's attention at Our Lady of Mercy Academy, 1001 Main Road, Newfield, NJ 08344.
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READY FOR SOME (ALUMNAE) SOFTBALL?
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Attention OLMA Alumnae!
Are you ready for some softball? If so, we have just what the doctor ordered -- OLMA's Inaugural Alumnae Game! It all happens on Saturday, May 9!
Contact Coach Leo Hagerty at coach.hagerty@olmanj.org with any questions or for more information. Let's show 'em how it's done!
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SUPPORT THE DAUGHTERS OF MERCY
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The one and only fundraiser run by the Daughters of Mercy each year is their 20-week Calendar Raffle. Tickets are $20 each and include more than 20 chances to win, as well as a seat at the annual Pasta Dinner where the grand prize drawing takes place. Please show your support to the founders of our school by purchasing at least one ticket per family. They are available in the main office or by emailing Sister Margaret at sr.margaret@olmanj.org. Thank you!
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WHITEOUT Basketball Playoff Game
-- March 3
Sister Speak Event
-- March 4
Senior Trip to Disney
-- March 6-10
Blood Drive
-- March 16
Mass
-- March 20
Freshmen/Sophomore Spring Fling
-- April 3
Designer Bag BINGO
-- April 4
Sisterhood Day
-- April 8
Easter Break
-- April 9-19
OLMA Prom
-- April 30
Accepted Students Saturday
-- May 2
Spring Fes
t -- May 2
Green & Gold Club Golf Outing
-- May 8
Color Run
-- May 9
Alumnae Softball Game
-- May 9
Photo Caption: Juniors, Jaiden Harris, Madison Hurley, and Ava Keyser on their way to interview.
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We hope you enjoy the OLMA Overview. If you have questions or suggestions, please contact Mrs. Kinkade at 856.697.2008, ext. 140, or email her at: mrs.kinkade@olmanj.org
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