February Alumna of the Month 2023: Vivian Van Bogaert ‘00
When did you start at Viz?
I started at Viz in 7th grade.
Where did you go to college after Viz, and why did you choose that school?
I attended Vanderbilt University. In the spring of my senior year, I was invited to spend a few days at Vandy. I was impressed with the beautiful campus and liked that it was in a city. Ultimately, what drew me the most to the school was the great energy around campus and how nice and genuine the students, faculty, and staff were during that visit.
What is one of your favorite Viz traditions or experiences, and why?
Carnival! I remember the excitement leading up to it, having fun working the booths with my friends and, of course, running around the parking lot with my friends, going on the rides, playing the different games at the booths, and eating way too much funnel cake. I looked forward to it every year.
This month’s virtue is Patience. 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?
Patience is such an important virtue, and it can be challenging at times. It’s something that we continuously learn and practice on a daily basis in all types of situations. The teachers at Viz demonstrated this virtue every day. They were always available when we needed additional help to understand a concept or issue, and they patiently worked through it with us until it clicked. In doing so, they taught me to be patient with myself as I worked through new or difficult concepts or problems and understanding when it was my turn to help others. I have been in training and mentorship roles and strive to patiently teach and help others in a similar way.
Are there any significant skills that you learned that you can attribute to your time at Viz?
Being able to speak in public! During my time at Viz I took drama and participated in some of the shows that required me to perform and speak in front of a crowd. It was a daunting and valuable experience. Those skills helped me develop the confidence to speak in public or in front of a large group, which I have to do on a regular basis.
What is something you are most proud of?
When I accepted my current position, I had to pass several finance exams during a relatively short period of time. It required hours of focused study for several weeks prior to each exam, and my children saw the time and effort I put into studying. I am proud that I passed all the exams, but even more so, I was able to set an example for my children on persistence and putting forth their best effort.
What is something you hope to accomplish in the future?
I want to take my children to Peru so they can have an immersive experience and learn more about their heritage.
If you could share one piece of advice with Viz students, what would it be?
Keep an open mind to different ideas and experiences. There is so much to be learned if you are open to it.
Visitation Academy is an independent, private Catholic school offering a coeducational Montessori preschool and Kindergarten program, the area's only all-girl elementary program for Grades 1-5, and an all-girl middle school and all-girl high school.
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