What is an Alta memory that still makes you laugh?
Nicole: I have so many and most all of them are so positive. Many memories have been triggered since my boys are both attending Alta now. I remember being under the lights at football games with all my girlfriends and crawling on hands and knees with Jenni Boud into Mr. Urry's science class while he snoozed showing a video. I remember dances, cross country meets, selling crap food in the DECA store, Homecoming parades, and making lots of banners with all the Student Government outside Mr. Ward's classroom. I remember driving around in one of our little cars and blaring Aerosmith and Air Supply... in that order. And of course, traveling to Washington DC with classmates. My memory has been good to me because I don't remember most of the crawling-out-of-my-skin teenage moments.
How close or completely different is your life from what you pictured?
Nicole: I'm not sure I had a real good future-orientation at that time. I knew I DID NOT want to be a teacher (which I did for 3 years, followed by 13 more in public schools), I wanted to adopt children from Africa (which I did), and I wanted to do something to help troubled teens (did that too). I DID NOT think I would spend all of my 20s single while all my friends had babies, but it turned out just fine. I'm the wrinkled and wise volunteer at the elementary school who could literally be the other PTA members' mom. Lucky them.
Is there something fun, unexpected, or completely unrelated to work that you are currently pursuing?
Nicole: I bought a psychology practice this year. It has meant that I have had a second wave in my career of learning new tech. I have had to develop a website, learn how to use and design in Canva, moved endless furniture, started keeping receipts (sort of), and how to make my email signature look little and professional... whew. And I have hemorrhaged money and hopefully will make it back.
What led you to pursue a Ph.D.?
Nicole: Hmmm... well it was probably a number of things, beginning with heartbreak. And with a totally broken heart at 21, I decided I was going to set some goals to give me a new direction. Graduate school was one of them. I applied and then under fierce pressure from people who believed in me, I just stuck with it. Grueling, but so glad I did because it has given me a really meaningful career and lots of flexibility during this season of my life. And in case you are wondering, I have not learned to play the guitar, which was also on the list.
What was it like to serve as principal of an alternative high school?
Nicole: I wore a lot of hats in a school district, one of my very favorites being principal of an alternative high school. This gave me an opportunity to support and enjoy some really disadvantaged kids who truly hated school and had very little belief that they were capable. I felt like my job was to be a soft place to land and then to help kids begin to see what they were capable of. I decided really quickly that I didn't care if you were cursing, your midriff was hanging out, you had a pierced tongue, or fluorescent hair, I was just glad you were there. It was hard work and so, so rewarding.
Your work often involves helping people better understand how their minds work. Why is that understanding so powerful?
Nicole: I'm currently doing mostly just psychological evaluation. I work with all ages, but mostly teens and young adults. I think these evaluations are life changing for young people that are struggling for whatever reason as it gives them information that helps them better advocate for themselves and understand why certain things have been a struggle. I was the lucky recipient of extravagant love from a lot of adults throughout my childhood and teen years. I believe adults make more of a difference in kids' lives than they realize and hope that I can pay it forward.
Why do you think reconnecting with people from our younger years can be meaningful?
I'm looking so forward to reconnecting with Alta folks. I have (mostly) really warm memories of my high school years, and I realize that I am quite fortunate for that. Thanks to all of you for being part of that history. I always enjoy catching up with all of you.
Rapid Fire Questions:
- Q: Favorite high school song?
A: I've got nothing... but I'm sure I will sing along to the entire playlist. - Q: Most memorable teacher?
A: Can't name just one. - Q: Favorite Utah hike or trail?
A: My favorite hike in all of Utah is Mount Timpanogos, but I also love the Narrows in Zion and Lake Blanche trail. - Q: Running or Cycling?
A: BOTH EVERY DAY FOREVER. - Q: One word that describes how you feel about the reunion?
A: Nostalgic