By: Delilah Samson & Sophia Xavier Lee

January was a busy and rough time for all of us. With the semester coming to a close and exams creeping up, it was a difficult month to endure. The Titan of the Month for January is a student who knows how being welcoming and a good friend can go a long way. We want to congratulate Tessa Gizzarelli for being such a kind hearted person and an inspiration during that stressful time. 

To get to know Tessa a little bit more, we decided to ask her a few questions and she gave us this wonderful response.  

  1. Why were you recognized as Titan of the Month? Since it’s your last year at St. A’s, what kind of mark do you want to leave? 

I am honoured to say that I was nominated as Titan of the Month for January. I was recognized by my teachers who witnessed my attempt to be as inclusive as possible within our school community. As someone who has experienced bullying before, I am a firm believer that each and every individual should have the most enjoyable experience in high school as possible and it is everyone’s duty to make that happen. If we do not work together to make our school a welcoming and nurturing place, we have not done our duty to fulfill Jesus’ second commandment. I want to leave high school knowing that the students of St. Augustine are doing everything in their power to make their companions feel a sense of belonging. I come to school every day with the intention of spreading positivity and setting an example of how to treat others. 

  1. How has St. A’s affected your life and how has it helped you grow into the person you are today? 

I realize the cliché is true: time has flown during my time at St. Augustine CHS and it’s hard to believe I am in my final year of high school. The academics, athletics, and activities I have been involved in have contributed to learning more about myself every day. My experiences have enabled me to explore many avenues to help learn what my true passions are, including my involvement within Best Buddies. I have been blessed to work with such an amazing group of students throughout high school, as they have taught me the importance of self-love, finding the light even when all you see is darkness and leaning on God when times are difficult. Most importantly, these students have always encouraged me to bring my best self to every situation and I will always strive to act by example. I am able to apply all I have learned through other aspects of my life, including everyday school activities. 

  1. What are your future ambitions? Any advice for Titans?

It has not always been an easy journey. A year ago, I experienced mental health issues that made me question my purpose in life and if I was truly doing my best to achieve my goals. I am most appreciative of the Co-Resources Department that lead me to realize that although I may have been in a difficult situation, it is truly a blessing in disguise. I received the support that I needed, and instead of letting my weaknesses define me, I have worked hard to enhance my skills while focusing on achieving my goals. It has become clear that I would not be where I am today without the help of my school, family, and the FLS students constantly reminding me who I truly am. The most valuable piece of advice I have for students is to get involved in any way they can. Finding my passion within Best Buddies moulded me into the individual I am today and has opened many doors regarding what I aspire to do in the future. I hope to develop post-secondary programs for students with disabilities. As there are a very limited number of options to currently choose from, I strive to construct an affordable system to allow for FLS students to continue what they do best. I believe that life has much to give, and it is the little things in life that will make a bigger difference than we can imagine.

Her response was amazing and truly inspiring. With all the hard work she puts into her school, outside activities and especially the work she does with Best Buddies, we appreciate everything she was able to do and accomplish. We wish her the best of luck in her future endeavours and congratulate her once more on being recognized as January’s Titan of the Month.