This year, we introduced a new counselor to Rosary’s faculty, Ms. Abalos! She is an academic and college counselor, guiding our freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors throughout their four years here at Rosary. She is so excited to be working at Rosary and can’t wait to meet all of the different personalities our student body has to offer. Read the rest of this article to hear more about Ms. Abalos!
Q: What are you most excited about this year as a new teacher at Rosary?
I am most excited about getting to know all of my students and becoming a part of the Rosary community. Everyone I have met has been so kind and welcoming. I’ve heard so much about Red and Gold, so I am excited about that as well! I am blessed and honored to serve here as a school counselor.
Q: What would be your best piece of advice for when applying to college?
My best piece of advice for when applying to college is to keep an open mind. Don’t get bogged down with where you think you should end up, because sometimes in life God has other plans for us. Have faith that you will end up where you are meant to be. Take pride in everything you have accomplished in high school, regardless of which college you attend.
Q: What brought you to Rosary?
My faith and belief in Catholic education are what brought me to Rosary. My parents, brothers and I are all products of Catholic schools, and I believe in the mission and vision of Rosary Academy. I am deeply grateful for my own Catholic education, and working at Rosary is my way of giving back. The all-girl advantage is also what drew me to Rosary. Being the only all-girls Catholic high school in Orange County is truly special
Q: What is your secret talent?
My secret talent is that I have an eye for interior decorating and creating an organized space with good energy flow. I’ve learned so much about this from one of my favorite books, “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Kondo. I also have a green thumb, and I have nearly twenty indoor plants. My oldest plant is one that I first got for my college dorm room!
Q: What is your favorite part about being a counselor here at Rosary?
My favorite part of being a counselor at Rosary Academy is the proactive approach to our counseling program. From college workshops to social-emotional learning presentations, Rosary is a place where counselors can really make a difference. I also love that we have Libby, Rosary’s therapy dog. I am a HUGE dog lover, so having Libby on campus is an added bonus.
Q: Where did you attend college? What did you get your degree in?
I attended Loyola Marymount University for both my undergraduate and graduate degrees. I majored in Spanish and minored in Psychology. I hold a master’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Counseling. This is my twentieth year in education — eight years as an elementary school teacher and twelve years as a high school counselor. I have also coached swim. I look forward to the years to come at Rosary Academy!
We are so blessed to have Ms. Abalos as a new counselor here at Rosary. Next time you see her in the halls, make sure to give her a big smile and a welcoming hello.
