December Alumna of the Month 2022: Mei Fields ‘17

12/8/2022

When did you start at Viz?

I started at Viz in August of 2013 as a new Freshman!

Where did you go to college after Viz, and why did you choose that school?

I went to Boston College and had the most incredible experience there. I had an incredibly intense college search process that involved three separate road trips and a European trip where I visited around 80 different colleges and universities! I was able to see so many different schools and honestly figure out what would be the best fit for me, and BC checked every box. I wanted a mid-sized university near a city that still had a vibrant campus life, and I wanted to double major in theater and psychology, and that is what I did! I am forever grateful to Viz for preparing me so well for college and for helping me attend my dream school.

What is one of your favorite Viz traditions or experiences, and why?

My favorite Viz tradition definitely has to be the Viz Carnival! Every year seeing all of the amazing booths that all of the clubs have set up, as well as the games and rides that STUCO puts so much work into, made every year so much fun!

This month's virtue is Gentleness. Can you reflect on what you learned about this virtue at Viz and how that impacts how you embody this virtue in your daily life as an adult?

Since leaving Viz, I have met so many people from all different walks of life, and I am so thankful for the unique experience that Visitation offers. People often ask me if going to an all-girls high school was painful and dramatic, and I always tell them they couldn't be more wrong. Viz truly demonstrates gentleness in all things, whether that be toward our fellow peers or inside and outside the classroom. Being surrounded by exceptional young women pushed me to do my absolute best while still having the love and support of the teachers and administration. I always knew if there were any issues, I would have people to talk to who would move heaven and earth to help me thrive. In my life today, I always try to remember to practice gentleness toward others, even when I am upset. I also have to be conscious of practicing gentleness towards myself, especially when I am dealing with stressful situations.

Are there any significant skills that you learned that you can attribute to your time at Viz?

Attending Viz definitely helped me gain confidence when it comes to participating in class or being vocal about my thoughts and opinions. So often, women do not feel that their voice matters or is listened to, and Viz did an incredible job of teaching us we are smart and worthy young women who should always speak up when we feel something is wrong.

What is something you are most proud of?

I am most proud of the relationships and friendships I have built throughout my life, and I love to see the people I care about thrive and find true happiness! I'm incredibly proud of my academic progress and career goals, but at the end of the day, we need people to share these milestones with us.

What is something you hope to accomplish in the future?

I hope to one day promote diversity, equity, and inclusion on the largest scale possible: the Big Screen! I would love to work at a major production company in children's programming to show kids worldwide that they are not alone.

If you could share one piece of advice with Viz students, what would it be?

I know every time this question is asked, people always say, "enjoy it while it lasts," and "time flies," but it’s true. Even more than that, genuinely don't sweat the small stuff. You will always find a way, things will always get better, and you deserve to be happy. Stick it out, eat an extra Viz cookie, take a deep breath in Mrs. Dunn's math class, and just do your best. I believe

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