Alumna of the Month - September 2022: Holly Jacoby '03

I intended to study French and biology, but after developing an unexpected love of Russian, I somehow never made it out of the humanities building. I graduated with a double major in International Studies and French Studies, with a minor in Russian language and literature. I returned to St. Louis for law school at Saint Louis University School of Law and concentrated on international and comparative law.

 

One of my favorite traditions is the Crescent Ceremony. I am humbled when I think of all the women who wear and have worn the Viz crescent. I am included in a group of such talented individuals who share a connection to the Salesian tradition. It was a very meaningful experience to watch my niece, Mya Cineus '22, receive her crescent at this year's Commencement Ceremony.

 

The Class of 2003 was a brilliant group of ladies. During my time at Viz, I was often humbled by the drive and accomplishments of my classmates, and I admired my teachers' commitment to teaching. In reflecting on the virtue of humility in my daily life, I actively strive to acknowledge that everyone has different talents and abilities, all of which are truly gifts from God – a point which I regularly emphasize with my three children.

 

For me, Viz fostered a strong spirit of always being a "woman of action" when I see a need for change or action, both in professional settings and in addressing personal or community situations. Additionally, Madame Rita Cholet-White instilled in me (and so many other girls) a drive to challenge myself and, with a fiercely independent spirit, to seek out new cultural experiences with a sense of curiosity, appreciation, and a never-ending desire to learn. The love of language learning and the skills required to learn a language that Madame instilled in me continue to serve me as I have been living in Germany (and now also speaking German!) for three years. Madame also inspired me to pass on my love of the French language to my children. I am now a member of the American Association of Teachers of French, having recently written an article about teaching French in the home setting as a non-native speaker for the Salut les jeunes! section of the AATF's National Bulletin.

 

This is a tough one to answer while reflecting on this month's virtue of humility! Motherhood has provided me with many opportunities to feel proud of raising three curious and spirited children. There is a sense of "mom pride" when I see my children learn or master a new skill, solve a problem, or exercise good Catholic moral/ethical judgment. 

On a more concrete note, I am proud of recently completing my first half marathon in May. I am not a natural-born gazelle, so training for the half marathon was physically and mentally challenging. I plan to run my next half marathon in October in Nuremberg. 

 

I hope to visit every continent and complete a full marathon (although I will still likely be slower than some of the faster octogenarians). 

 

At times, "be who you are" can serve as a reminder to embrace one's own individuality, as well as to be accepting of the individuality of others. Other times, it may resonate as a reminder to be true to one's convictions and beliefs. While encouraging Viz students to be who they are, I also would encourage them to consider that to "be that well" includes accepting that their personal best efforts may fluctuate with life's blessings and challenges, so be gentle and understanding with yourself.