The Impact of School Choice

by Katherine Thomas, 2025 Bishop Hartley Graduate (Columbus, Ohio)

As a senior at Bishop Hartley High School, I find myself reflecting on how much this school has shaped who I am and how it’s prepared me for the future. Choosing to attend Bishop Hartley was more than just picking a school, it was a decision that’s had a huge impact on my life, my education, and my sense of purpose. If I hadn’t had the option to attend here, I can’t even imagine where I would be today. In this essay, I want to talk about how Bishop Hartley has changed me, how it’s prepared me for what comes next, and how my life would be completely different without the chance to attend this school. Bishop Hartley High School has been a huge part of my growth as a person. When I first started here, I had no idea how much it would challenge and change me, but looking back now, it’s clear how much this school has influenced the young woman I’ve become. One of the biggest ways Bishop Hartley has shaped me is through the leadership opportunities it’s offered. Whether it’s in sports, student leadership, or volunteering, I’ve had chances to step up and take on leadership roles. These experiences have taught me how to be more confident, how to lead with integrity, and how to work as part of a team. I’ve learned that leadership isn’t just about being in charge, it’s about helping your peers succeed, too. I know these skills will stay with me long after I graduate and move on to the next chapter in my life. But it’s not just the leadership that’s impacted me, it’s the values I’ve learned here. The Catholic education at Bishop Hartley has been about more than just academics. It’s been about understanding the importance of faith, service, and treating others with respect. Through religion classes, retreats, and even daily prayers, I’ve developed a stronger sense of what matters in life. Bishop Hartley has taught me that being a good person is just as important as being a good student, and that’s something I will carry with me forever. The sense of community here is also something that’s been huge for me. It’s not just about going to class and getting good grades, it’s about feeling supported by the people around you. At Bishop Hartley, the teachers genuinely care about you and take the time to make sure you’re growing not just academically but personally, too. I’ve always felt like I’m more than just another face in the crowd, and that’s something I wouldn’t have gotten at a larger school. The close-knit community here has helped me feel seen, heard, and valued. Bishop Hartley hasn’t just shaped who I am; it’s also set me up for the future. The academic rigor here has been the perfect balance of challenging and rewarding. I’ve taken honors and AP classes that have pushed me to think critically, solve problems creatively, and manage my time effectively. It’s been extremely tough at times, but looking back, I know that the skills I’ve developed will help me succeed in college and beyond.

The college prep at Bishop Hartley is another reason why I feel so ready for the future. The counselors here are amazing and they’ve been with me every step of the way, helping me narrow down my college choices, prepare for the ACT, and guide me through the application process. They’ve helped me see the bigger picture and figure out what’s next, which is something I might have struggled with without their support. On top of that, I’ve learned how to balance academics with everything else in life. Sports, clubs, volunteering, and part-time jobs. It’s not easy, but it’s taught me how to prioritize, stay organized, and manage my time wisely. I’ve been involved in so many different things that have helped me grow as a person, and that’s something I’ll need in college and my future career. It’s not just about excelling in the classroom; it’s about being well-rounded and ready for anything that comes your way. If I hadn’t had the opportunity to attend Bishop Hartley, I honestly don’t know where I would be right now. I feel so lucky to have had the chance to go to a school that values education, faith, and character as much as Bishop Hartley does. Without it, I know I would’ve missed out on a lot of experiences that have shaped me into who I am today. For one, I don’t think I would have developed the same sense of faith and responsibility if I had gone to a public school. At Bishop Hartley, the focus isn’t only on grades, but also on developing a sense of purpose, helping others, and living a life that reflects your values. That’s something I might not have found at another school, and I know it’s been one of the most important things I’ve learned here. I also think the smaller, more intimate environment at Bishop Hartley has played a huge role in my development. At a bigger school, it would’ve been easy to feel lost in the crowd. But at Bishop Hartley, teachers have always taken the time to get to know me and make sure I’m growing in every way possible. I’ve been able to ask questions, get help when I need it, and really connect with my peers. It’s a support system that’s been crucial for me, and I wouldn’t have had that at a larger school. The extracurriculars at Bishop Hartley have also been a big part of my experience. I’ve had the chance to get involved in a lot of different activities that I probably wouldn’t have had access to at a different school. These experiences have made me into a more well-rounded person, and I think that’s something that will be really important in my future. Looking back on my years at Bishop Hartley, I can honestly say that it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The education, the community, the values—it all comes together to shape me into who I am today and who I’ll be in the future. I’m so grateful that I had the chance to attend this school, because without it, I know I wouldn’t be as prepared for what’s ahead. My school choice has made all the difference, and I can’t wait to take everything I’ve learned here into the next phase of my life.