Cathy Hill
Cathy Hill is one of the twelve retirees that will be leaving Prospect this year. Hill has been a counselor for sixteen years. She is excited to learn new things and experience new opportunities once she finishes her time at Prospect.
Q: When did you decide to become a school counselor?
A: “While working as an audiologist, one of my patients told me that the requirement to be a certified teacher before a school counselor was lifted. The day after I heard that, I started applying to graduate school to earn my counseling degree.”
Q: How was your experience here at Prospect?
A: “Overall, it’s been great. Working in Student Services comes with many ups and downs. There’s days when I have to remind myself why I’m here, which is to support students, and that centers me. ”
Q: What’s one of your favorite memories at Prospect?
A: “There are so many great memories with staff and students. I love my department, and we get along well. I also love the relationships I’ve built with students. The best part is when we can laugh together, and put everything in perspective.”
Q: How would you describe the community here?
A: “The PHS community is a strong one. There is always room to grow, and I know there are constant efforts to listen, and try to understand what everyone brings to our community.”
Q: What do you plan on doing in retirement?
A: “So much. I am looking forward to the freedom. I will hopefully work in private practice counseling for teenagers since that’s what I love doing most. I plan to travel, spend time with my granddaughter, try new things, and volunteer.”
Q: Is there anywhere specific you want to travel to?
A: “I love to spend time in nature, and adventure travel. There are so many amazing opportunities. One thing I just found online is being a research assistant for two weeks in Uganda working with chimpanzees. Those are the types of things I’m hoping to experience. Experiencing different cultures is also another aspect of travel that I hope to do.”
Q: What legacy do you hope to leave here and be known for?
A: “I hope that everybody will know how passionate I am about helping people. It’s very bittersweet to be leaving PHS, but I hope I made a difference.”
Q: Do you have any advice for students coming into Prospect?
A: “To not give up easily if something is challenging. Everyone has the potential to be successful. Growth and confidence comes from conquering a challenge, and stepping outside your comfort zone.”