After Mr. Theo Garrett ’07 left his position in DeMatha’s counseling center, there was a job opening that needed to be filled. Enter Mr. Thomas Berry, one of our newest faculty members, who takes over as the class of 2027 counselor.
Mr. Berry is a Stag at heart, graduating from DeMatha in 2010. He went on to get his college degree from the Catholic University of America in 2014, and after coaching basketball for the Cardinals he’s returned to Hyattsville.
Mr. Berry took this job because he wanted to transition from the college to high school level. He had experience working with Mr. Bright previously, and once he got word that a position was available, he “decided to take [the opening].”
Among his goals as a counselor, he wants to “help juniors, bring my college experience; Bring that value.” Given his background working in college admissions, students can learn a lot from him about the next step.
He also said the class of 2027 has been incredible. “They’re curious, they’re not afraid to ask questions,” Mr. Berry said. “I want to meet them all by the end of the semester.”
In terms of how his college experience translates to a younger audience, he said it’s “all about the right fit.” He wants to “make sure students are successful,” no matter what that looks like.
He detailed how a college can initially feel like a perfect fit, but that can change quickly. He wants to help students navigate through that process.
Mr. Berry seems very glad to be back at his alma mater, saying, “This was the only high school I would have made the transition to.” When he was a DeMatha student, Mrs. Stockton was his counselor and Ms. Ritz was working as a counselor. Now, instead of learning from them, he is working alongside them and the rest of our counseling center. While he said it was “sad to see Mr. Garrett leave,” Mr. Berry is excited to be in his new role.
SGA member Jackson Skaare, who is part of Mr. Berry’s junior class, said, “I think he’s a good addition to DeMatha and is well-experienced in the role of a college counselor. Personally, he’s already connected me with college admissions directors when beginning my college visit journey.”
Fellow junior Jason Dacanay had positive things to say about Mr. Berry, as well. “Mr. Berry is a cool and respectful guy. [He’s] very helpful and caring.”
Senior counselor Mr. Bright commended the value Mr. Berry brings to the Counseling Center. “He’s bringing ten years worth of college experience. He knows the area well as a DeMatha graduate.”
