The legacy of Schmidt

Being a school counselor is a big job. It takes a special person to be able to juggle students’ social, emotional, and academic needs, but Caryn Schmidt does just that.

Schmidt is one of the five counselors at La Porte High School who guides LPHS students. She is originally from Franklin Park, Illinois, attending East Leyden High School, and she earned her undergraduate degree at Illinois State University and graduate degree at Valparaiso University.

Schmidt originally went to college to become a high school English teacher. Instead, she decided to switch her major after the first year to Psychology with a minor in Sociology. After receiving her first degree, she went to grad school to get a Masters of Education in School Counseling. 

Schmidt began counseling at LPHS in 2016 and has helped many Slicers with their futures and to go on and be productive members of society. The job has been a perfect fit for Schmidt’s love of others.

“I have always had a passion for helping others. Most of my friends growing up would call me the ‘mom’ of the group because I always looked out for everyone, gave advice where it was needed, and wanted to make a difference in the lives of the people around me,” Schmidt said.

The choice of becoming a counselor has been one that she has always been grateful for.

“Being a school counselor allows me to build relationships with both the students and staff. There is no greater feeling in the world than knowing I have the ability in my career to leave a positive impact on both students and staff,” Schmidt said.

Students have greatly benefitted from Schmidt’s compassionate heart and broad shoulders.

“She’s willing to listen to any and all problems. She gives helpful advice and her opinion on the situation without forcing it on you. She is an amazing counselor and an even better person,” Becca Marxman, junior, said.

Outside of school, Schmidt is finishing up her first season as the girl’s assistant swim coach and planning for her future wedding that will be coming up in June.

LPHS is fortunate to have counselors who are as compassionate and as intelligent as Schmidt.