Meet the Top Phonathon Caller

November 12, 2019

Meghan McSherry '20 is the top Phonathon caller so far this year! Get to know her:

What were your thoughts and goals when you started your senior year this fall?

Starting my senior year here at CDH, my main goal was to finish strong in every way that I possibly could: in my academics, sports, with my friendships, and at my job. Knowing that I worked as hard as I could at all those aspects of my life is extremely important to me. My closure with high school comes from knowing that I made the most out of my experience at CDH.

What advice would you give to an incoming student?

My advice to an incoming student would be to try their best at whatever they choose to do in high school. Even if you do not entirely succeed in the way that you intended, there’s so much comfort in the fact that you gave it your all. This way, you will not spend any time in the future wondering what could have been if you had tried harder.

What is one goal you have for yourself that you bring to work every Phonathon shift?

My sister/coworker and I always joke before we start work that our goal is to raise a million dollars or some absurd amount like that, but all jokes aside, my goal at the beginning of each shift is just to try my best, learn, and grow from every experience I have that day.

What does being a part of the Phonathon team mean to you?

Being a part of Phonathon to me is an opportunity to practice working as a team in a more unique way than I do through sports. I’ve learned so much about teamwork and also about customer service. These are two skills I know are going to be invaluable for when I step out of high school and into the real world.

How does it feel to be raising money for CDH and deserving students?

My time here at CDH has helped me so much in growing academically, morally, and spiritually. Because of this, it feels amazing to support my school and help more students have access to the same experience I have had.

What do you like most about working the Phonathon?

What I like best about Phonathon is the fun competitiveness and enthusiasm everyone brings to work every day. Work is so much fun when we all support each other and genuinely enjoy our jobs.

How do you feel you have changed as a Phonathon caller since you first started?

I started working at Phonathon in January of last school year, and I have grown in many ways since then. First off, reading a script clearly and at a good pace over and over again has immensely helped my public speaking ability. More importantly, Phonathon has helped me become more confident in my people skills and in myself.

What is one of the most challenging parts of your Phonathon job?

The most challenging part of my job is the days where we get refusal after refusal. It is really easy to get discouraged, and that negative attitude carries over the phone making your chances for a donation even lower. It’s days like this that have shown me the importance of maintaining a good attitude and keeping my head up.

Who is your favorite teacher and CDH? Why?

My favorite teacher at CDH is Ms. Susan Vaughan-Fier. I have had her as an English teacher for two years at CDH, and not only is she hilarious, but she is so supportive of people’s passions and is amazing at teaching and inspiring writing.

What is your favorite class at CDH? Why?

Out of all my classes this trimester, I have to say I most look forward to going to Jewelry Making every day. I have always loved art, and this class gives me an excuse to relax with friends and make something for an hour.