Student Profile: The Value of Being Present for Others

My name is Kinga, and I’m seventeen years old. I come from a family of five, with an older brother who is nineteen and a younger sister who is ten. My parents are close in age – my mom is six months older than my dad. We also have two pets, a Golden Retriever and a rabbit, who are very much part of the family.

I spent the first half of my life in the United States, living in Salt Lake City, New York City, and Boise, Idaho. For the second half of my life, I’ve lived in Poland. Experiencing both cultures has shaped my perspective and helped me appreciate different ways of life.

Favorite Subjects?

My favorite Seton subject was Biology for Life. I appreciated how it presented scientific concepts through a perspective grounded in faith.

The curriculum included topics that aren’t typically found in standard biology textbooks, such as pro-life principles and the qualities and capabilities of the three types of souls – vegetative, sensitive, and rational. Studying Biology for Life helped me better understand the order, functioning, and complexity of creation, and it deepened my sense of wonder at its Creator.

How Can You Make a Difference?

I wanted to spend my time doing something meaningful, so I chose to volunteer at the Social Welfare Home to support people who are needy, underprivileged, or living with disabilities. I hoped to make a difference in their lives, but the experience has changed me in ways I didn’t expect.

The joy, gratitude, and perspective I’ve gained from working with them have made me realize that, in many ways, I was the one who had been missing something important before I started volunteering. The experience has taught me humility, compassion, and the value of being present for others.

I attend a music school where I study both flute and piano. The transverse flute is my primary instrument, while the piano is my secondary one.

I’ve been familiar with the piano since I was five years old, and I picked up the flute during my teenage years. What motivates me to practice is the thought of playing music with friends and family. To me, music is both a form of expression and a way to connect with people.

What’s Next?

Next, I plan to attend the University of Notre Dame, where I’ve applied to study Clinical Psychology. I hope to join the university’s band and take part in its Catholic ministry community. I also intend to continue my volunteer work, as service has become an important part of my life and faith.

After that, I’m inspired to work with people as a psychologist. I hope to integrate Catholic Social Teaching with psychology to support others on their mental and emotional journeys, helping them navigate challenges in a loving and uplifting manner.

Any Advice for Seton High Schoolers?

My advice for current Seton High Schoolers is to never give up – both in the difficult seasons of life and in the joyful ones. Stay faithful, stay determined, and trust that every experience is helping you grow.