There are many students at Feehan who stand out. From athletes to performers, people are showcasing their talents and making themselves known at BFHS each and every day. But, the students that truly leave their marks on the school are those who lift up those around them, those who are bright spots in their classmates’ days, and those who leave the school better than they found it. Ella O’Brien is one of these students.

A senior at Bishop Feehan, Ella is a very involved student, specifically in her three favorite activities, Special Olympics, Student Council, and Track. She serves as President of Special Olympics and has been a 4-year member of Student Council. In both positions, she can always be found with a smile on her face, volunteering ideas, and collaborating with her classmates or the young athletes that she works with. With all this involvement definitely came some difficulties for Ella, especially at first. Figuring out a way to balance her academic schedule with her clubs and activities, and, most importantly, fitting in time for fun with her friends was a difficult task as she adjusted to high school as an underclassman. But, though it “took time to find a happy medium,” Ella has been able to make the most out of everything that Feehan offers, while truly enjoying her time in high school as well.

Ella really values the uniquely Feehan aspects of her high school experience. She was able to meet her best friends, who wouldn’t have been in her life if it weren’t for Feehan. She also has loved being an enthusiastic participant in Feehan events, like the Father-Daughter Dance, Santa Shop, Senior Sunrise, and (most importantly!) Camp Sunshine.

As she wraps up her time as a shamrock, she has two pieces of advice for Feehan underclassmen:

• “Get involved!” There are such a wide variety of activities, and everyone should work to find “a community that will welcome [them].”
• Try your best! Always put in the effort, as effort will always pay off in the long run.
• (&, of course, take Psychology!)

Though Ella’s time at Feehan is coming to an end, she will take her conspicuous enthusiasm and positive attitude with her on whatever journey she chooses to pursue next.