Seek Your Spark

I was walking through the art studio with my morning coffee, checking in with my AP Art students, when their conversation turned to the future—the endless possibilities and seemingly impossible choices they’ll face in the coming months. You know, those big life decisions, like choosing which career path to invest their time, energy, and resources in for the years ahead!

Over my 14 years as an educator, this topic has come up countless times, and every time it does, I’m reminded of the advice my parents gave me when I was in high school. They encouraged me to explore widely, trust my intuition, and listen carefully to the internal dialogue within my soul—urging me to discover the spark that makes me feel alive, curious, and eager.

They taught me that by finding my spark, I could chart a path toward a meaningful and fulfilling life. But they also made it clear that reaching those heights would take grit, focus, networking, and determination. With that effort, they said, I could build a career that offered security, opportunity, and independence—regardless of the field I chose.

As Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself reflecting on my journey and the life I've built with profound gratitude. I’m eternally thankful for the people who encouraged, mentored, and challenged me along the way. They not only helped me find my spark but ignited a fire within me that feels unstoppable. Because of them—and because I’ve learned to listen to my inner voice—I am able to fuel my passions every single day.

I am happy. I am content. I am right where I was always meant to be.

As I design educational programs and experiences that foster self-discovery and career exploration, I carry forward the wisdom and encouragement my family and mentors instilled in me. My hope is that by sharing this advice with my students, I can inspire them to trust their instincts, embrace their passions, and seek their spark—that unique inner drive that fuels curiosity, creativity, and purpose. It’s this spark that has the power to guide them on a path toward meaningful growth, authentic self-expression, and fulfilling careers that reflect their true potential. 

So, in the spirit of Thanksgiving, 

To: Gary & Venta Schuermann (My Dad and Mom)

Thank you for building the foundation for me to discover who I am and all that I could be.

To: Gini Ogden (My Middle & High School Art Teacher - Nauset)

Thank you for highlighting my spark.

To: Chandra Ortiz (My Mass Art Professor, Student Teacher Mentor, & Department Head at Dorchester Academy-My first Teaching Job!)

Thank you for igniting my fire.

To: Niki Prefontaine, Deb Donovan, and Jen Police (School Leaders & Colleagues)

Thank you for fueling my fire.

To: My Sailing Crew + Friends

Thank you for cooling me down when I get too hot.

To: The Voice Within

Thank you for the endless supply of kindling.