Feeding Your Soul
By, Malaysia Cotton
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| Photo: Courtesy |
Natasha Dyer like many, once lived the Phoenix life and graduated from University High School. Although being a Phoenix is an amazing experience, Dyer’s life did not stop there. After graduating from University High School she went on to do bigger and better things. Ms. Dyer is the Director of Operations for education at the Newark Trust for Education. This organization is the backbone for public education in the city of Newark. Ms. Dyers had this to say about her work, "It's meaningful and rewarding because it satisfies both my creative and systematic self, and the ultimate outcome is improved outcomes for Newark students. So, it's a win-win all around."
I had the pleasure of interviewing Ms. Dyer. During our interview, I asked her a few questions to find out what she's been up to since leaving high school behind. After graduating from University she started her collegiate career at Rutgers University, New Brunswick campus. After taking a hiatus, she resumed her studies at Essex County College where she graduated summa cum laude with an A.A. in Communications. From there she enrolled at Rutgers University Newark campus, where she graduated magna cum laude with a B.A in Sociology. Ms. Dyer is currently in her final semester of graduate school at Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration, where she's working towards a Masters in Public Administration (MPA) with a focus on Nonprofit Management. Ms. Dyer states that University High School definitely helped prepare her for college and beyond.
I went on to ask her to share her fondest memory while attending University High School.
“My fondest memory from UHS is the family dynamic that permeated the entire school. Good, bad, or indifferent we were all connected and most of us still are--across grade level, faculty and staff--once a phoenix, always a Phoenix”
I definitely agree with Dyer on that one. Regardless of whatever reason, whenever there is a time for University High School to come together as one, it happens. You can feel the vibe and connection in the air when the students and staff become a unit.
Since Ms. Dyer is such a respected member of the community, I thought it would be fitting to know what kind of advice she has for the current students attending University.
“Focus on your grades, because a good academic record can be a passport to anywhere (but also have fun).”
I followed up that question by asking, if she there was anything she'd do different in high school if given the opportunity.
“I would focus more attention on my love of writing and photography, and put more energy into Spanish class.”
Then, I asked “What did you most look forward to doing at school?”
“When I was in high school I always looked forward to English class, hanging out in the Art room with Ms. Jackson and the pep rallies.”
Last but not least, I asked Ms. Dyer to tell me what personal attributes she thinks are essential for success in her profession.
“In any profession it's important to be open minded and communicative, both verbally and in writing. To be successful you have to remain open to constructive criticism, change and differing perspectives. You must also have the ability to clearly articulate your opinions or positions in all forms of expression. One final element of success is a willingness to never stop learning.”
Talking with Ms. Dyer has motivated me to be better and do more. Alumni like her have paved the way for us to chase our purpose. It is good to know that the some of the people making decisions about our education actually care about us. It was a honor to interview Ms. Dyer. This has been extremely motivational for students like myself that want to find a profession that feeds my soul.
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