By: Treshawn Ross

Introduction

Ms. Thao is our new school counselor who works with students in 10th through 12th grade letters RO through Z. She has been doing a great job and I had an opportunity to interview her. I asked her a series of job related questions and also a series of more personal questions. 

Job related–

Treshawn: How have you enjoyed working here so far?

Ms. Thao: “I really like working here so far, the staff is super supportive and amazing. And I love getting to know the students.”

Treshawn: Was there anything specific to Highland that made you interested in this job?

Ms. Thao: “Yes, having worked in St. Paul for a lot of years you hear a lot about Highland and the school pride. This is a very active and a good community. The pep fests and competitions are nice. The students here want to make a difference.”

Treshawn: How have you enjoyed working and interacting with the students here?

Ms. Thao: “It’s been really good (working with students). They are really understanding and patient as I get accustomed to the new environment.” 

Treshawn: Have there been any surprises relating to your new position at this school or has it all been business as usual?

Ms. Thao: “IB is very new to me, I had a lot to learn about the IB program and the immersion programs. It’s very nice that this school offers those programs.”

Treshawn: How does this school environment help you adjust to your new position at the school?

Ms. Thao: “I think Highland has a very welcoming environment and that’s made my transition very smooth. As I mentioned, I think the staff is very supportive.”

Treshawn: Is there any advice you would like to share with the students at this school? 

Ms. Thao: “Yeah! I would say that as a counselor I’m here to support all Highland students so I want you all to come down and say ‘Hi’. Even if you don’t really need help.”

Personal (outside of school)– 

Treshawn: How was your Thanksgiving break? Did you do anything fun?

Ms. Thao: “It was good, very chill. Family stuff was very nice, I caught up with friends and family.”

Treshawn: What’s your favorite thing (or things) to do outside of school? Like hobbies or interests. 

Ms. Thao: “Pickleball is something I started doing a year ago and now I feel more improved. I also enjoy reading when I can. And I love spending time with my family.”

Treshawn: Favorite music genre/artist?

Ms. Thao: “Old school in the sense of the 90’s and 2000’s. In all genres mostly”

Treshawn: Do you celebrate Christmas? If so what’s your favorite thing about the holiday?

Ms. Thao: “Yes I celebrate Christmas. I enjoy spending time with my family and watching the kids open up gifts. Also, the food, I love food.”

Treshawn: Do you have any hidden talents?

Ms. Thao: ”That’s a great question! I really love karaoke even though I’m a more quiet person, I enjoy it!” 

Treshawn: Ending thoughts (anything you’d like people to know)?

Ms. Thao: “I worked with Ms. Esso previously and this is my second time working with her. Actually, in exception to Ms. Skaar, I’ve worked with everyone here previously. I work with students 10th-12th grade letters RO-Z.”