This SJPIICA alumni profile features Meyanni Araujo, who graduated from our Columbia campus in 2016 and Cathedral High School in 2020. Today, she studies Elementary/Special Education at Providence College, where she is on the Dean’s List.
Why did your family/you choose SJPIICA? What brought you to the school?
My family and I chose SJPIICA because of all the nice things we heard about the education and graduation rate. A friend of my family, Mrs. O’Brien, was also there every step of the way informing us on how wonderful the school is, how great the teachers are, how Mrs. Sheridan was one of the best principals, and how great they speak about religion. She also told me about my school and how it would be a perfect match for me. My family and I loved the community they had there. It was like everyone became family.
Favorite subject while in school?
My favorite subject was math. I enjoyed my teachers and although I was not the best, I had great support which helped me progress. Ever since then math has stuck with me.
Best memory from the school?
My best memory would be my 8th grade year. Experiencing the fun activities with my class, basketball games, the boat ride, and graduating with my SJP family was the best. Until this day, my class and students from the other campuses talked about how we wished SJP had a high school because of how much we loved it there.
What advice would you give to SJP students today?
Enjoy your years and always make connections with your teachers. Do your best and always ask questions if you are uncertain. Never give up.
Tell us about your journey.
After SJP I went to Cathedral High School. At CHS, I was a member of the National Honors Society and was treasurer. I was a manager of the girls’ basketball team and also played volleyball. My commitments in high school led me to be the recipient of many college acceptances. I am now a Junior at Providence College studying Elementary/Special Education.
I have been working at PC for about two years for the residence life and the education office. At home, I also work at the Boys and Girls Club of Dorchester; I have been there for five years and truly enjoy it. Working with all kids there is a true blessing, to see the impact I have in their lives and how much we have learned from each other. My passion for teaching grew since being at SJP and looking up to my teachers, and helping out in K1 and after school.
How did SJPIICA help you get to where you are today?
SJP helped me become the student and leader I am today. I was given roles throughout my years that helped me grow and build on skills I needed to move forward. Working with the students and teachers helped me have better communication skills and a sense of what is soon to come. I appreciate all that I have learned from SJP, from all of the teachers and including Mrs. Sheridan throughout my years there. Thank you!
