This week’s Q&A participant is Mary Gregory. The Roanoke College graduate has lived in Salem practically her whole life. Her engaging personality and passion for her craft makes her an exceptional guidance counselor.
What’s the history between you and the City of Salem?
“I was Salem born, and Salem bred”…this is part of a chant/cheer that most Salemites know. I went to Roanoke College in Salem. I work in the City of Salem Schools and – this may come as a surprise – also live in Salem.
Talk about your education background. Where did you go to school?
I graduated from Salem High School. I got my BA in Sociology from Roanoke College and my MA in Counselor Education from Virginia Tech.
What is your proudest accomplishment to date?
Putting myself through college while living independently. To get to where I am today required a lot of hard work and personal sacrifices.
How did you become a Guidance Counselor at East Salem Elementary?
It took hard work, time and a lot of patience to become a school counselor. I worked in two other counties before the right job opened for me in Salem.
What are some things you like to do in Salem?
I LOVE to walk and ride my bike on the trail on Kessler Mill Rd and along the greenway in Salem. I also enjoy taking pictures of our beautiful valleys flora and fauna.
Are there any books you’ve read that you would recommend to others?
This summer, I read a book in the East Salem Library. I wanted to find out what some of the kids read so I could discuss it with them. One book was called Wonder by R. J. Palacio. It is touching and I recommend it to EVERYONE! The main character experiences the best and the worst of human nature and a year of tremendous emotional growth while starting middle school.
Who are some people that inspire you?
Children are an inspiration to me because they live in a world where they have zero control, and they adapt to many situations by figuring out ways to behave to get what they want. They may not be able to articulate it but they are so smart, and they work to get their needs met…and their brain is not fully developed yet! Science indicates that the brain doesn’t stop growing until around age 25. Kids are smarter than you think!
What motivates you?
Helping others, being thoughtful and caring motivates me.
What does an average week look like for you?
I never have an average week. One of the most important parts of my job is being flexible. Robert Burns once said, “The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.”
If you could go back and give an 18-year-old Mary some advice, what would you say?
The most important things in life are not things.
-Compiled by Shawn Nowlin
