What Being a Prefect Means to Me
What Being a Prefect Means to Me
By: Christopher Johnson, Senior Prefect
__________________________________________________________________________
As I entered my first year of High School at Assumption College, I was unaware of the Prefect Program
because I never really saw any Prefects around me. I never needed the help to transition into High
School and never went for help when needed; I figured out things on my own or went to my teacher
because I knew that they could give me all the help I needed. I learned that a Prefect is a senior student
in grade 11 or 12 who is responsible for upholding and enhancing the high standards and culture of
Assumption College. Upon completing my second year, the program intrigued me because it provided
many opportunities. The Prefect Program complements the Board Strategic Plan provided by improving
student achievement, shaping Catholic Faith Format, developing a safe and inclusive community and
communicating effectively with our fellow Lions.
I was an introvert who lacked confidence. Thankfully the Prefect Program provides opportunity for
leadership skill development. As I was interviewed, I felt anxious but excited to see if I was qualified to
become a Prefect. I am grateful for being a successful candidate. One of the teachers, Mr. Nagler, knew
that there was something special about me that could be drawn out and used for my development as a
Prefect.
As I began the Prefect Program, I loved every minute of it because it helped me develop my leadership
skills and gave me the confidence I needed in myself. By helping the Grade 9 students find their lockers,
socializing with them, and gaining a strong connection with them, I started gaining confidence I never
had as a kid. I felt confident to talk to others and help out when needed by giving advice, or assisting
with homework as a tutor during our free Homework Help and tutoring program on Tuesday/Thursday
in the school’s Think Tank (Library).
Upon completing my first semester of grade 11 as a Prefect, I was given the opportunity to help with the
morning announcements by helping our Chaplain, Mrs. Sheldrake. With the assistance of a Prefect, I
received hands on experience on the little ways one could help to make a positive difference. I would be
in charge of turning on the music in the morning before the bell, set up O’Canada and read the Morning
Prayer over the P.A. system. The first time was nerve racking, but I prospered, with flying colours. As
soon as people noticed my voice, they kept telling me that I had an amazing voice on the intercom. I was
enriched by helping with the announcements; I was recognized as an individual and as a role model by
others in the school.
The Prefect retreats were also a major part in my development because they taught me to not only
think of myself, but for the less fortunate around me. By going to St. Vincent de Paul, we learned their
involvement in the Brantford community through giving food, shelter, and warm clothing to those in
need. We assisted by helping to sort clothing and price the pieces. We sorted canned goods in little
boxes and placed them on the shelves by expiration date. It was an eye-opening and humbling
experience because it made me realize that there are people in this world and local community who are
worse off than myself.
At a recent retreat to The Good Shepard in Hamilton, we sorted clothing, put dog food and cat food in
plastic bags and got to witness first hand how the poor came in to shop for clothes and food with
dignity. Craig, our guide, told us that any donation we make, and the working hands of others that day
will affect thousands of lives in a positive way. Even volunteering at The Good Shepard can make
someone’s day because you take the focus away from yourself and apply it for the greater good. Even
telling someone about The Good Shepard may encourage them to help others who can’t help
themselves.
Going into my final year at ACS, I have a lot of expectations for myself including attending University. I
really feel inspired to give back and take part in more extra-curricular activities during my final year. I
decided to join ATV as a host and also star in the school play, The Wiz. I decided to audition for The Wiz
with no experience in dancing, singing, or acting. I made the cut and I am acting as the Wizard for the
play. My parents were even surprised when I auditioned because they thought that I would be too shy
to audition. I am very grateful to the Prefect Program in allowing myself to develop leadership skills,
opening my heart to the less fortunate, and finding my inner voice through the opportunities provided
to me as an ACS leader.
Over my two years as a Prefect, I have grown so much. If it wasn’t for the Prefect Program noticing
something in me that I did not know I had myself, accepting me, I would have never grown into the
person I am today. I thank Mr. Nagler and the Prefect Program Committee for taking me under their
wings and showing me what it really means to be a Prefect and an active student in the school.