With an influx of new staff members at Oratory Prep, you may not recognize a few faculty members when walking down the hallways. However, it is important to get to know every one of them as they will be joining the OP family. Early last week I had the pleasure of getting to know our new Head of Guidance Ms. Beneventine. Having completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Monmouth University and worked in the Morristown education system for four years, I was interested in learning more about what she had in store for OP, and asked her the following questions:
What interested you about becoming a Guidance Counselor?
“I knew I always loved working in schools, working with students, teens, and younger children. And back when I was in high school all my teachers told me that I would be a great teacher. However, I always knew I didn’t want to become a teacher, but something in a different capacity. I was greatly influenced by my psychology teacher who showed me the path towards guidance and counseling.” And in her words, she “Just went for it.”
What enticed you to join the Oratory Prep Community?
“Everyone I spoke to had nothing but positive things to say. It’s truly as great as it seems, everyone has been here for quite a long time, and they are welcoming and supportive. It is a really nice tight-knit community. When I toured around and met some faculty I knew it would be a good fit”.
Do you have any new Ideas or Goals you would like to accomplish at OP?
“Since I oversee Guidance and Special Services, we’re really trying to streamline a lot of the resources for the services we provide. In terms of new stuff as of right now, I’m trying to take everything in right being that it is my first year. However, I would love to build the counseling program or have more mental health support. I want to end the stigma around mental health, and let students know that it’s okay to talk to someone, and it’s okay to seek help if needed”.
What does the day-to-day of the Head of Guidance look like?
“My day-to-day consists of many things including meeting with students; I also go into classrooms to see what’s happening and get to know students better. I will also act as a support by having meetings with students to find out if they need any help. I’m usually just running around or behind my laptop typing away.”
Have you had any prior roles in education and or a guidance position?
“Yes, I came from Morris School District and I was the school social worker on the child study team as well as, the school counselor. I had many different roles there including group therapy, individual therapy, writing assessments and reports, and working with campaigns against bullying. That is where I came from and what has built me up to this position which I’m very grateful for.”
Do you have any hobbies or interests that you partake in outside of Oratory?
“Yes! I am a huge coffee drinker, I love finding new coffee shops and I’m a huge Starbucks fan. I also love to spin, I am a spin instructor so I like to cycle. I teach a spin class about three times a week which is a hobby I enjoy. I also love to travel.”
Do you have a background in sports and or support any sports teams?
“In high school and college, I played field hockey. Obviously, there is no field hockey at OP however, I come from a huge soccer family, my dad plays professional soccer and my brother plays as well. I went to an OP soccer game a few days ago which was awesome! And I plan to attend lots of OP sporting events which will be very fun.”
Since you mentioned your love for Starbucks would you elaborate on your Starbucks order?
“Typically my go-to is a vanilla sweet cream cold brew. Have you ever had that? (No I had not) It’s good! It is good enough because it’s not espresso where you’re jittery but, it still has a sweet kick to it. Or a latte hot or iced with almond milk.”
From her Ideas and Goals about boosting the mental health at Oratory to her excitement for OP footy and favorite coffee order, Ms. Beneventine shared her thoughts and hopes with her new Oratory Prep family. May I say Ms. Beneventine we are excited to have you. It was truly a fun and interesting time to be able to interview her, and I hope that when you see her walking down the halls you won’t pass up the opportunity to say hello.
