Notre Dame Sophomore Julia Gerwe is described as positive, energetic, spirited and academically gifted – a true role model and woman making a difference. According to Mrs. Witt, NDA’s school secretary, Julia shares the same care for people and love for Catholic education as our school’s patron saint – St. Julie Billiart for whom Julia was named after.
These qualities and her commitment to serving others have earned her the recognition of February’s Student of the Month.
Julia, having just wrapped up her sixth theatrical performance on NDA’s stage, keeps very busy with extra-curricular and service activities. Besides the theatre program, Julia is a member of the Pandatones –NDA’s audition choir, Academic Team, Student Council, Ping Pong and Sign Language Club. Outside NDA, Julia keeps very busy serving her community; she is trained to read for grade school Academic Team meets, serves each summer as an American Red Cross camp counselor and participates in the YCET Diocesan youth program that facilitates 8th grade retreats.
Since she joined NDA as a freshman last year, Julia has maintained first honors every quarter. Though she appreciates all of her classes, she especially enjoys her Spanish and English classes. From English she gains real-life, practical knowledge, and Spanish allows her to learn more about her ancestry and where her grandma lived before immigrating to the United States.
Religion teacher Michelle Johnson, sees Julia’s “true commitment to the Christian lifestyle in her words and deeds.” Julia believes it is hers and the responsibility of all of us to make our world a better place, and Julia says one smile or a simple hello makes a big difference. This explains why you always see Julia with a smile on her face. Congratulations, Julia on earning this recognition. We are proud to call you a Panda!