By Peter Kalitka–
Gonzaga College High School does not get its plaudits for no reason. Even though Gonzaga is not a college-preparatory school by affiliation and status, it is by stature one of the best high school institutions in the country in preparing students for college and beyond. Gonzaga prepares young men to succeed in the real world.
Personally, during my time at Gonzaga, I have noticed one very distinct difference between myself and other friends at different schools: my perspective. Namely Gonzaga teachers, but also classmates and coaches, have taught me to think in a new way. Instead of keeping this binocular panned on individualism, Gonzaga teachers help students remove it to allow sight of the whole world. Mr. Cowan, Mr. Donnellan, Dr. Miller and Mr. Turner are just a few teachers who have allowed for this new perspective in my life. Moreover, they are people in my life that I will never forget. The motto Gonzaga Men for Others shows not only Gonzaga’s remarkable service ethic but also Gonzaga’s focal point on teaching kids how to think and think well.
Gonzaga College High School alumni may branch out and go on their own specific journeys; however, they will forever carry the perspective of a scholar.
As mentioned previously, Gonzaga holds its prestige for a reason, and one reason for this is because of the college-ready caliber Gonzaga holds itself up to; these standards are set high to achieve at a high level.
During my time over the past year or so applying to different colleges, I noticed a few things in common with all the schools I visited. I realized that I would be living on my own, thinking on my own, taking a harder course load and preparing to become a full-time adult. However, in all these commonalities, I never worried about feeling inferior in any of these departments because, throughout my time at Gonzaga, I have been pushed to be the very best I could be.
In effect, this pursuit of high standards from the faculty at Gonzaga has allowed me to achieve at a high level. With the combination of diverging perspectives and college-level classes, Gonzaga allows for students like me to have a step up against the competition and be fully prepared for the real world and beyond.
Carol Corgan • May 16, 2023 at 8:43 am
Peter, Thank you for validating the high quality of education at Gonzaga and the outstanding level of instruction by the faculty! Personally, I feel honored to work with such awesome colleagues.