Whether you’ve seen her strumming her guitar at a monthly Coffeehouse, writing an investigative piece for the school newspaper as the Associate Editor-In-Chief, being a loyal Faith Peer Leader, or serving as a spirited Exec Vice President for Student Government, Theresa Marcucci is a kind, humble, and caring person who contributes greatly to our Montrose community each and every day.

I asked Theresa about the many different ways in which she has been involved in extracurricular activities at Montrose for the past seven years. Serving as the Vice President of Student Government, Theresa has brought such spirit and joy to the exec team. Theresa reflected on why she has enjoyed being a part of this particular club on campus: “I’ve loved being able to see the behind-the-scenes workings of Montrose School. I’m able to get a better understanding of how the school runs. Also, I’ve enjoyed being able to give back to the school and to serve the student body.” 

Bringing that same service-oriented, community-driven vision, Theresa was also an active member of the Humans of Montrose club. “I really loved Humans of Montrose. It was about being together, service, and spending our time well,” said Theresa. 

Theresa not only brought her talents and dedication to clubs at school but also to her roles in Montrose Performing Arts. Theresa excitedly contemplated why she loved Performing Arts so deeply: “I love musical theater. I feel like people don’t necessarily see me and think that I do theater or that I like it. I love acting, getting to play a character, understanding a character, and trying to portray a character.” One of Theresa’s favorite shows to perform in at Montrose was 12 Angry Women. Theresa welcomed the opportunity to “dive-in” and “understand” a character she was not “similar to.” She defined the “empathetic side of theater” as the art of “story-telling” and “representing humanity at its lowest and highest.” 

While Theresa has generously given her time and talent to extra-curricular activities, she has also greatly enjoyed all the things she has learned academically and the lessons instilled in her by her teachers. When I asked Theresa what her favorite class has been at Montrose, she quickly responded: “Obviously, AP Lit.” Theresa remarked: “It helped me gain an appreciation for Literature that I hadn’t really had in any of my other English classes.” 

Theresa has also appreciated the many different ways in which her teachers have been able to provide her with formative advice which she will always remember and reflect on for years to come. Theresa discussed the many different ways in which she appreciates her mentor, Ms. Lechner. “Each teacher has something different to give. My mentor, Ms. Lechner, has been the most influential teacher. It’s a combination of her ability to listen and support but also challenge me where necessary. I know that I can go to her when I’m feeling down but also I know that when I’m the problem, she’s gonna tell me. I trust her and her judgment. She’s also just super fun.” 

For many members of this year’s graduating class, their favorite Montrose tradition is one that is shared by many members of the community and is very common. Theresa’s favorite tradition, the Rose continuity, is one I believe that holds significant meaning and value in a Montrose experience. When Theresa recounted to me why she believed that this tradition was so special, it felt as if I was speaking with a philosopher. She remarked: “It’s representative of what you get at Montrose. You walk in, you get a rose. You walk out, you get all of these roses. Each rose represents a different lesson you’ve learned.” 

All of your experiences at Montrose, whether academic or social, can teach us different lessons in the Habits of Mind, Heart, and Character that define being a Maverick. Co-Recipient of the Montrose Cup, the highest honor given to a Montrose Senior, Theresa was not only rewarded for her school spirit but also her contributions to our mission each and every day. For Theresa, as she receives all her roses on graduation day, she will take all the lessons she has learned and bring them with her to Boston College and beyond.

My favorite portion of an interview is to discuss personal advice and words of wisdom for those who come after. When I asked Theresa about her advice for current and future Montrose middle-schoolers, she responded: “Remember, drama is a big thing, but it won’t be a big thing forever. Don’t sweat school — your grades don’t matter that much. Do what you love and don’t try to be perfect.” For high-schoolers, relating to social friend structures, Theresa said: “Don’t limit yourself in terms of who you are going to be friends with. It’s an opportunity to be friends with anyone. The people you think are going to be your friends aren’t necessarily the ones that are gonna be your best friends.” 

For many high-schoolers, the academic years of 9th through 12th grade can seem like the most formative years to develop a version of yourself that is most pleasing to certain colleges and universities. Theresa believes that you should “do what you love.” She also commented: “Don’t try and do what you think is going to get you into college. If you get into college by trying to get into college, you might not end up where you want to go or where you are going to be your best.” For Theresa, the authenticity and uniqueness of each individual will reflect where is the best place to attend college and, more broadly, where you are destined to land in life. 

On the 26th of May, the Montrose community will gather on Miracle Field to send off this year’s graduating class with as much pomp and circumstance as the Montrose community can offer. I asked Theresa what she will be contemplating as she drives away from 29 North Street, and she responded: “I’m going to take the community and the people I’ve met. I’ve learned that each person has inherent dignity and value. Montrose has helped me to internalize that and look at the world that way. The human person is the most important thing, and success or failure doesn’t matter if you don’t have good friends and care for those around you.” I then asked Theresa, as she is driving into the gates of Boston College this fall, what she is most looking forward to. With great excitement and anticipation, Theresa remarked that she is looking forward to “exploring more of who she is without the pressure of being something for the people around her.” 

“T-Mar,” for the past five years, you have made me feel so welcome, enthusiastic, and passionate about the many different aspects of this community that you have enjoyed in your time at Montrose. Boston College is lucky to have such an amazing and talented person on their campus! As Dr. Seuss once said: “You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, So…get on your way!” I wish you the best on your “way,” Theresa! 

By Kate Novack ‘24, Co-Editor-in-Chief and Features Editor

24cnovack@montroseschool.org