For Erin Lenihan, Class of 2017, West Haven High School was more than a place to learn—it was the starting point for a journey defined by growth, resilience, and helping others. A proud WHHS soccer player, Erin carried the lessons she learned both on and off the field into her future. She went on to earn her B.S. in Psychology from Eastern Connecticut State University in 2021 before completing her Master’s in School Counseling at Southern Connecticut State University in 2024. Today, she continues to make an impact in the lives of young people as a school counselor in Fairfield, Connecticut, turning her passion for helping others into her profession.
When reflecting on her time at WHHS, Erin is quick to point to the influence of one particular teacher. “Mrs. Bode was not only a great teacher, but also a great role model,” she said. “She made class fun and engaging, and she is, to this day, one of the best teachers I have ever had.” For Erin, it was educators like Mrs. Bode who showed that teaching goes beyond textbooks—it’s about connecting with students, building confidence, and making learning enjoyable. Those lessons have stayed with her as she now works with students of her own.
For current WHHS students who are beginning to think about life after graduation, Erin’s advice comes from a place of understanding and honesty. “It’s okay if you do not know what you want to do at 17 or 18 years old,” she shared. “Your mind is going to change a million times after you graduate, so just enjoy the ride. Don’t stress about having it all figured out—focus on learning, exploring, and finding what makes you excited.”
If she could go back and speak to her high school self, Erin’s message would be rooted in confidence and authenticity. “Don’t be afraid to just be yourself,” she said. “Everyone’s timeline and path is going to be different, and that’s okay. Do what makes you the happiest, even if it doesn’t look like what everyone else is doing. Trust yourself—you’re on the right path.”
That trust eventually led her to school counseling, a role she describes as both fulfilling and meaningful. “I always knew I wanted to help people in my future career, but I was unsure what path I wanted to take going into college,” Erin explained. “I remember talking to Mrs. Doraz, my previous counselor at WHHS, for her advice and guidance on becoming a school counselor. Those conversations helped me realize that this was the right path for me.” Today, she channels that inspiration into her own work, guiding students with the same kind of care and support that once guided her.
Through it all, Erin holds onto a simple but powerful belief: “It’s basic, but I truly believe everything happens for a reason.” For her, it’s more than just a saying—it’s a mindset that reminds her to embrace every challenge, every change, and every opportunity as part of the bigger picture. From the halls of WHHS to her counseling office today, Erin’s journey is a reminder that growth comes from trusting the process and staying true to yourself.