Catching up with our Class of 2011 college “study” group
It has been ten years since the students in the Class of 2011 walked across the stage, received their Bishop Montgomery diplomas, and headed off into the next chapter of their lives. Prior to their graduation, we asked five members of the class if we could “follow” them through college. The goal was to have these five amazing young men and women give current and future BMHS students a glimpse into what college life is like. It was also our goal to have them give us an honest assessment of how they felt Bishop Montgomery prepared them for college academically.
At their respective schools, Laura Bell ’11, Daisy Franco ’11, Tyler Harvey ’11, Cody Lee ’11 and Kevin Paredes ’11 juggled classes, jobs, internships, sports, service activities, and social lives. Ten years after their BMHS graduation, we decided to check back in with Laura, Daisy, Tyler, Cody, and Kevin to see where life has taken them. If you know these five, it will not surprise you that they continue to thrive.
LAURA BELL ’11
To say that Laura Bell ’11 stayed busy during her days at UC Davis would be an understatement. She interned in a local kindergarten class, shadowed doctors at a hospital in Bolivia, volunteered with the Red Cross and was a research assistant on an autism study. And that is just some of what she did outside of being a double major in Neurobiology, Physiology & Behavior (NBP) and Psychology. The coursework alone would keep most busy, but Bell embraced the opportunities she was afforded at one of the top schools in the nation. It was not without its share of stress, but Bell felt prepared for everything she took on during college, and the sense of community that was prevalent at both BMHS and UC Davis was a motivating factor in her success.
Tell us what you are doing now in your professional career.
I graduated from UC Davis in May 2016 with a B.S. in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior (NPB), a B.A. in Psychology, and a minor in Human Development. I am currently working towards my PhD in clinical psychology at UC Berkeley (the official program name is “Clinical Science”). Along the way, I earned my Masters in Psychology in spring 2020.
How has your Bishop Montgomery education impacted you in your life today?
One of my favorite things about Bishop was the loving, supportive, and inclusive community. Being in such a safe, nonjudgmental space really helped me step outside my comfort zone and pursue growth in areas of interest I might not have had the courage to explore previously. For example, participating in ComedySportz Improv and Drama Lab’s musical theater productions really helped me come out of my shell–and even get over a fear of public speaking!
What would you tell your high school self about choosing a college and what to expect about college?
One, consider quality-of-life factors when choosing a school. For example, the happiness of the students is a BIG factor to pay attention to when considering colleges. (P.S. I highly recommend UC Davis! I had an amazing experience there.) Two, it is not a sign of weakness to ask questions or admit that you do not understand a concept. If you are lost or confused, go to office hours or take advantage of tutoring services EARLY. Three, set intermediate deadlines for yourself when working on big projects, papers, or test prep.
DAISY FRANCO ’11
Daisy Franco ’11 graduated from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. with a degree in International Politics from one of the most prominent Foreign Service schools in the world. While at Georgetown, Franco excelled in the classroom all while working as a coordinator of a court program for young kids on parole, interning with a Latin-American policy think tank, and studying abroad in Brazil, where she learned Portuguese and worked with an organization focused on women’s rights. During her junior year at Georgetown, she knew that after graduation, she wanted to work before exploring either graduate school or law school. Her plans have gone accordingly.
Tell us what you are doing now in your professional career.
In 2017, I started law school at UC Berkeley after working as a paralegal at a New York law firm. I enjoyed my time at Berkeley; I participated in law journal and spent a semester in Mexico City working with immigrants seeking asylum in the United States and Mexico. I graduated in May 2020 and currently work as a first-year litigation associate at Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton in New York City.
How has your Bishop Montgomery education impacted you in your life today?
Bishop’s approach to learning made me a better student. My Bishop History and English teachers pushed me to write creatively and critically and instilled in me curiosity for learning. It was in high school that I became more interested in reading and learning about the world outside of my immediate circle. I look back and appreciate that I had the opportunity to attend a diverse high school.
What would you tell your high school self about choosing a college and what to expect about college?
Choosing the right college is a complicated decision, but no decision is the wrong decision. You have to be honest with yourself about what you want out of your college experience and choose accordingly. Do not be afraid of the unknown and apply to your reach schools. Once you pick your college, embrace your decision and lean into your first year. Participate in clubs and activities that interest you; this will help you find your passion. As a freshman, I did not expect to go to law school and instead expected to go into government, but participating in a college-led juvenile parole program changed my career path. Do not be afraid to change your mind!
TYLER HARVEY ’11
Tyler Harvey ’11 had a fairy-tale college career as a student-athlete at Eastern Washington University, where he earned his degree in Communications. By the time his college career was complete, Harvey earned accolades for his work both on the court and in the classroom. In his final year, he was named an All-American, led the nation in scoring, helped EWU to an NCAA Tournament berth and was a 1st Team Academic All-American. Oh, and he also became the first boys’ basketball player in BMHS history to be chosen in the NBA Draft, when he was selected in the second round in 2015 by the Orlando Magic.
Tell us what you are doing now in your professional career.
I am currently playing professional basketball in Wollongong, Australia [for the Illawara Hawks]. This will be my sixth year playing professional basketball and my fourth year overseas. I have spent time in Italy, France, and Germany as well. I feel extremely blessed to have the opportunity to play basketball at the highest levels around the globe. (Note: Tyler was chosen 1st Team All-NBL in 2020-21 for the Hawks)
How has your Bishop Montgomery education impacted you in your life today?
BMHS has had a huge impact on my life. The lessons I learned have carried over to my adult life. The best thing about Bishop is that I still keep in contact with many people from there. It truly is a family and they are always there for me if I ever need anything. BMHS taught me that not only is it hard work that will take you far in life, but who you are as a person is just as important – maybe even more. Character does count, and Bishop instilled that in us from day one.
What would you tell your high school self about choosing a college and what to expect about college?
I would tell myself that it is okay to go somewhere where you are not comfortable at first. I remember my first few months away from home in Washington were rough, but that is all part of the growing process. I met some of my best friends and my wife in college! Things always seem to work themselves out the way they are supposed to. They will not always work out as you planned in your head; but I do promise these will be some of the best years of your life if you go into it with an open mind. Follow your heart when choosing the college YOU want to attend. Do not just attend a school because your parents wanted you to go there. Follow your heart and trust your decision; the rest will take care of itself.
CODY LEE ’11
During his time at Cal Poly SLO, Cody Lee ’11 worked toward his mechanical engineering degree while also working an internship at Northrop Grumman each summer. Prevalent in many of his responses to our questions while he was in college was his advice to choose a college that has a well-respected program in your area of study. It is no surprise, then, that his degree from one of the top engineering schools in the country and his willingness to get involved in organizations such as a mechanical engineering fraternity and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars have helped him find a career in his field of choice.
Tell us what you are doing now in your professional career.
[After graduation] I worked at Rantec Power Systems for three years as the mechanical lead for a few electro-mechanical systems used in military applications. After three years, I decided it was time to pursue new opportunities. After multiple interviews, I decided to accept a job at Fitbit in San Diego. During my time there, I was involved in the mechanical design of different electro-mechanical components that are a part of the smartwatch products that Fitbit offers. I also served as a mechanical engineer for a team that developed the biological sensors on the different product offerings. In November of 2019, Google announced that it would acquire Fitbit. After 14 months, the deal finally closed and I am now a Product Design Engineer for Google.
How has your Bishop Montgomery education impacted you in your life today?
BMHS has been a great contributor to the working professional I am today. The curriculum at Bishop equipped me with the knowledge to finish my BS in mechanical engineering as well as perform in today’s workforce. This says a lot about the teachers and staff at Bishop Montgomery. I also met lifelong friends that I still keep in touch with to this day. Attending BMHS was a positive life experience that I will hold near to my heart.
What would you tell your high school self about choosing a college and what to expect about college?
Do some research on different career paths to pursue through and past college. I picked mechanical engineering because my dad is a mechanical engineer and I figured I should do the same. I am lucky to have chosen a field that suits my strengths and interests. I do know, however, that this is not always the case. Doing the research as a high school student can set you up for success and happiness in the future. Making such a large decision at such a young age is difficult, but a bit of research and self-understanding can go a long way.
KEVIN PAREDES ’11
Kevin Paredes ’11 experienced ups and downs during his time at Southwest Baptist University in Missouri. He arrived on campus ready to make a name for himself as a student-athlete, but a few serious knee injuries forced him to shift gears. Never one to shy away from a challenge, he put the football pads away and became a student-coach, serving as the Bearcats’ wide receivers coach while finishing his degree in Business Administration. Upon graduation from SW Baptist, he wrote to us: “I cherish all the things God has taught and blessed me with in my life.” Paredes’ positive outlook even in challenging times is the reason why he continues to excel in all that he does.
Tell us what you are doing now in your professional career.
Shortly after graduating and returning home, I started working as a Human Resources Coordinator for a real estate investment company in Los Angeles. I worked for about five years and progressed to several other roles including HR Administrator, Corporate Recruiter, and Payroll Administrator. At the end of 2019, I started working on my own time, as a partner in an E-commerce retail distribution startup. Immersed in learning this industry, I quickly understood the potential of what this business could be and how much I enjoy it. After about a year, I decided to go full-time and have not looked back.
How has your Bishop Montgomery education impacted you in your life today?
Bishop impacted me in so many positive ways. It was a safe, educational community with such a diverse melting pot of different backgrounds. Being exposed to so many wonderful leaders and students, each one unique in upbringing and thought processes, was the foundation to an often-overlooked ability to work well with others toward a common goal. Most goals have changed since high school, but the core ideals of successfully working with others have remained the same in all my professional experiences.
What would you tell your high school self about choosing a college and what to expect about college?
If you are undecided, that is okay! Only a few know exactly what they want to do at your age. If you are unsure, prioritize identifying what subject(s) you enjoy learning and why. After establishing that, research programs and schools that align with your interests and strengths. Diligently learning about yourself before finally deciding can save you time and money down the line. It is okay to change directions!
Veritas 