Johanna Gardner FP '06

Newfane, Vermont

After high school I attended the University of Vermont. I loved studying French and, while in France for my junior year, I dropped out of school to immerse myself in the language. After two years, I returned to the States, always planning to someday finish college.  Then I got married and had three children, who now are 15, 12, and 9 years old. As soon as the youngest one entered first grade, I thought, “I’m going back to school.” A friend who worked as a guidance counselor at one of the local community colleges encouraged me to look into Mount Holyoke and Smith. I applied to both and chose Mount Holyoke. 

Coming here was a little scary. You wonder, “What’s happened in the 20 years since I have been in school? What does everybody else know that I don’t?” The orientation for new FPs offered so much reassurance that we could do it. The program’s staff are just the most supportive people. It’s been reassuring to know that they are always there.

I’m a commuter student who comes to campus just one day a week. I sometimes stay at the Frances Perkins House, which allows me to take advantage of campus resources and attend special events. There’s also a community at the FP House—it’s a place where I’ve been able to establish friendships.

I’ve continued my French studies and added an education minor. I’m earning Massachusetts teaching certification, which I can transfer to Vermont. During my student teaching, I’ve found that I love being in the classroom. And I still love the French language.  Now I’m excited about opening a whole new world to students.