The Importance of The OJCL to
My High School Experience
Emma Mock, St. Ursula
Academy
Freshman year I was immediately thrown
into the world of Latin when I tested into Latin
II, a sophomore class. In an effort to fit in with
my intimidating peers, I signed up for Ursula’s
chapter of the Ohio Junior Classical League.
Wanting to prove myself as a capable
freshman, I began trying to complete projects
independently because I was afraid to ask for
help. I finally decided to ask the 1st Vice
President, the intimidating senior in charge of
projects, for help with choosing one. That day
completely changed my outlook on OJCL; she
was amazing and so friendly, making me love
projects. From then on, I was hooked. I actually
skipped my freshman dance, labeling myself
the proud Latin nerd, because it was the same
Friday as convention. I even convinced my
mom to chaperone, and she has since been
dubbed “The Best Chaperone Ever” by my
fellow Ursula delegates. She does not
acknowledge the title, but she is just as excited
as me for convention every year.
At the end of my freshman year, I decided
to run for office within my chapter, when
positions were usually given to juniors and
seniors. I surprised myself by actually winning
and becoming 1st Vice President, which I did
proudly both sophomore and junior year. I was
in charge of collecting projects from everyone
and preparing for spirit competitions. This
position also gave me the opportunity to work
more closely with our amazing Latin teacher
and sponsor, Ms. Hammond. The largest
St. Ur u pe
r
g t e ro -ca at t e 2018 OJ
Con
t o
struggle with this was staying under budget because
my vision for our costumes did not always match
our funds. My proudest moment was leading Spirit
this year and winning one day, making my hard
work worth it. This year I’m our chapter’s President,
an honor that I am still amazed I have been given. I
am so excited this year to oversee the committees to
make sure all our projects are completed in time. The
OJCL has been a defining part of my high school
experience because it has given me the opportunity
to find myself while connecting with hundreds of
kids, whether in my own chapter or from all over
Ohio. The OJCL will always have a special place in
my heart for this reason and so many more. I hope
to have a great last convention in March, but I also
know that I will be a little heartbroken when this
incredible pillar of my high school experience is
over.