Photo taken by Ari Guzman
South Salem High School has added a new counselor, Leah Anderson, who will cover students with the last name Mas-Pi. Anderson was previously a school counselor at McNary High School and Stephens Middle School. During college, Anderson studied at Goshen College for her undergraduate degree in social work. Then graduated from New York University with a Masters degree in Social Work and International Policy. After that, she got her Masters in School Counseling from George Fox University.
Living Up To The Quote
During her childhood, Anderson heard a quote that sparked her interest in helping others.
“I grew up hearing Mr. Roger’s quote, ‘To love someone is to strive to accept that person exactly the way they are, right here and now,’ I wanted to have a career in which I could live by this quote and help others,” Anderson said
For eight years Anderson has been a counselor with that she has been given the opportunity to help others and live up to Mr. Roger’s quote
School counseling gives me the honor of listening to human stories and providing a safe space for students to be themselves. I love getting to know all of my new students at South,
Anderson said.
Why Anderson Joined The Counseling Team
The reason why Anderson decided to join the South counseling team is because of the environment they have created.
“The South counseling team has a great reputation for helping students, families and thinking outside of the box. Staff and administrators are so supportive of the counselors here. It is truly a great place to work,” Anderson said.
How She Prepares For Students
When it comes to preparing for a student to come into her office, Anderson makes sure the office feels like a comforting environment for the students.
“Before a student enters my office, I make sure everything looks warm and inviting. I am still in the process of getting more furniture because the space looks a little empty. Eventually, I would like to have more plants by my window,” Anderson said.
