Jaedyn Buck - Loyola Catholic School, Mankato

I never thought Catholic education would be a part of my life. I grew up in a non-religious family and attended public school until middle school. Once I reached seventh grade, however, I changed to Loyola. I was always worried about rejection and the fact that I am not even baptized, let alone a religious person. One thing I learned very quickly was that Catholic love is inclusive to all no matter race, size, religion, age, etc. That’s the very first “rule” I learned when I got here and I will never forget it.

Inclusivity is something that many people fear. It can be difficult to show equal emotion to all those around you. For example, young kids often find their closest friends and stick with them, excluding anyone new into their “crew” because they stick with familiarity and comfort; however, sticking to what is comfortable is limiting. If I had stuck with what I found comfortable I would’ve never switched schools and branched out into a new world. I would have never learned of the values that are delicately woven into the Catholic religion, thus maturing and growing into a better person.

Furthermore, I would have never had the opportunity for amazing service projects like the Christmas Basket Project, for example. This project entails each grade being assigned to a family in need, setting a money goal, compiling together donations of money and items, and then going out to buy the wants and needs of their family. Christmas Basket teaches students to sacrifice for those who need it, to be selfless and involved in the community. We are always taught that God would help all of us who need it and we must in return help God’s children, or in other words each other, and the Christmas Basket Project showcases this in the best way possible. I always have enjoyed the idea of knowing my money and contributions helped a family have a memorable Christmas. Service isn’t meant to be all about doing what makes you as a person feel good about yourself, but rather just doing what is right and helping those around you. I was always told to “treat everyone with kindness and respect as you don’t know what they could be going through” and the Christmas Basket Project, along with other service opportunities, have allowed me to value and live as such.

Alongside service, I have learned a great deal about leadership. In the Catholic faith, leadership is vital. Yes, there are followers in the religion meaning followers of God and the Apostles to Jesus; however, leadership is present as well. Some of the biggest names in the Bible are leaders, one of which being Moses. He alone parted the Red Sea for the Isrealites and led them to freedom from the Egyptians. He took the initiative to do what everyone else feared. Over and over I have been taught or read this story and more and more I have been inspired to be more like him, like Moses. Throughout high school I learned how to be bold and take the jobs people are reluctant to take. I often find myself taking leadership in Choir whether it be within my section, the sopranos, or the whole choir. I stepped into the role of teaching assistant as well. Leadership isn’t easy and it can be very daunting for many but I’ve learned how to ease into it through school. I slowly gained more opportunities to be a leader throughout my schooling, and was even lightly nudged to take said opportunities. I’ll always appreciate the chances I’ve had at Loyola.

As mentioned before, I would’ve never had the chance to join so many different clubs and organizations or tried different service projects if I hadn’t transferred out of public school. I will forever be grateful for getting the chance to experience Catholic education and grow so much from it.