23 Sep Then…And Now: Mary Erskine
What were your teachers really like as teenagers? At SET High, a small, public tuition-free charter high school in San Diego, we love pulling back the curtain on the adults who show up for our students every day. This month, we sat down with Education Specialist Mary Erskine to talk favorite music, best classes, and the wheels needed to get to school — then and now.
What was your favorite class in high school? What class would you like to take now at SET?
I absolutely loved my psychology class! Ms. Chrisman was brilliant and she made the material engaging and easy to understand. I still think back on that class. Now, I would love the opportunity to give precalculus or biology another try. I didn’t enjoy them then but this time I would be ready to crush it.
Did you have any jobs while in high school?
I worked at an olive oil and vinegar tasting shop and had to wear an apron which I hated!
What school activities were you involved with in high school?
I played tennis, lacrosse, and track and participated in the mock trial club.
What music did you love listening to in high school? Now?
I listened to electronic/hip hop/ indie rock music and embarrassingly, dubstep. Music tastes haven’t changed too much except I don’t listen to dubstep anymore.
Did you attend any memorable concerts in high school?
I went to the Channel 93.3 concert and KROQ Weenie Roast. I got to see Wiz Khalifa, Maroon 5, Flo Rida, Avicci, Gym Class Heros, Grouplove… So fun.
What was your go-to after school snack in high school? What about now?
Panera, In-n-Out, Starbucks. I still love all those places, but I make more of my own food now.
What did you eat for lunch in high school? What about now?
Lots and lots of sandwiches. Now, whatever I find in the fridge.
How did you get around in high school? How do you get around now?
I biked to school. Now I drive.
What do you love about SET- what sets it apart from other schools?
There are so many things I love: teachers who genuinely care, lessons that are fun and engaging, small classes, a supportive environment, and of course the diverse and creative students here.
And finally, what is something you wish you knew at age 19?
You can always change your course.
Fun Facts about Mary Erskine:
What is the scariest animal?
Bears.
What’s your secret talent?
I can crack all my knuckles.
What superpower do you wish you had?
Never need sleep!
What’s a cause that’s dear to you?
Dyslexia/Reading Intervention for Learning Disabilities.
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done (besides teaching!)?
Dog sledding.
You get to listen to one singer/composer for the rest of your life- who is it?
Lady Gaga
What did you want to be when you were 5?
Probably an astronaut.
If you could live in any era, what would it be and why?
The 90’s before cellphones.
Early bird or night owl?
Early bird– 5:30am.
If you had to eat one meal for the rest of your life every day, what would it be?
Chicken tenders
Learn more about Ms. Erskine and all of our teachers and staff here at our California Distinguished School. You can design your own learning path filled with rigorous academics, truly unique electives, fun clubs, and sports. Enrolling now!
About SET High
SET High offers each student individual attention from multi-talented, highly qualified teachers. Students at our California Distinguished School (three times awarded!) build a healthy camaraderie with classmates inside an intellectually rigorous environment that brings out their talents and personality, helping them develop their individual character and direction in life. With a wide variety of electives, flexible scheduling, dual enrollment college classes and more — our students regularly exceed their academic and personal expectations. Enroll now. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Find us at www.sethigh.org.