Learning for Life!

Recently, our freshmen ERA classes at Mount Mercy Academy had the opportunity to welcome two incredible guest speakers into the classroom for Life Discovery Interviews as part of our Education Revolution Association (ERA) program.

The ERA program focuses on “Teaching Life in the Classroom” through the Life Discovery Classroom curriculum, which equips students with essential life and success skills. One of the most valuable parts of this program is the Life Discovery Interviews, where students gain firsthand knowledge and insight from professionals both inside and outside our school community. These real-life interactions help students connect classroom learning to future careers and opportunities in meaningful ways.

We were excited to welcome Dr. Shannon Jemiolo, an accounting professor at Canisius University. Dr. Jemiolo also serves as Director of the VITA Program, where IRS-certified accounting students provide free federal and state tax preparation and e-filing services to qualifying community members. Through this program, her students gain valuable real-world, hands-on experience while making a difference in the community, something that closely reflects the meaningful experiential learning opportunities we strive to provide our students at Mount Mercy.

During the interview, our students asked thoughtful questions about accounting careers, technology, internships, financial responsibility, and the future of business. Dr. Jemiolo shared that accounting is much more than “just math”, it involves communication, problem-solving, organization, and helping people make smart financial decisions. She also discussed how technology and AI are changing the profession, the importance of internships and real-world experience, and how students can begin building strong financial habits now.

Our second recent Life Discovery Interview featured Mercy alumna Colleen Cleary Quinn, a professor at SUNY Erie Community College, a member of the Mount Mercy Academy Board of Trustees and Mercy Class of 1995. Colleen spoke with students about her experiences as a Mercy student, the lifelong friendships she built here, and her journey through college while discovering the career path that was right for her. She shared how much ECC impacted her early college experience and how rewarding it is now to mentor and support students who may need guidance along the way.

Colleen also discussed recently receiving an award for service work at ECC, which she credits in part to the foundation of service and compassion she developed during her years at Mercy. Her advice to students was simple but powerful: “Always do what’s right for you.”

We are so grateful to both Dr. Jemiolo and Colleen Cleary Quinn for sharing their experiences, wisdom, and encouragement with our students. These conversations continue to inspire our girls to explore future careers, build confidence, and discover the many paths available to them beyond the classroom.