Getting involved is no secret to maximizing your high school experience, and senior Ly Nguyen exemplifies this. Although her time is busy, her efforts remain plentiful. Nguyen is currently active in 12 clubs at Dowling Catholic, including Student Council, Student Ambassadors, Student Philanthropy Council, Peer Tutors, Chick-fil-A Leadership Academy, C.O.R.E., Special Olympics, Serva Fidem, Fashion Club, NHS, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Christmas Baskets (business committee). 

Nguyen doesn’t have a favorite club because “each is so unique in its own way.” She appreciates how each club has different people and events, making her feel part of many distinct plans. Additionally, it allows her to apply a variety of her skills and strengths across multiple clubs. Three specific clubs have been part of Nguyen’s life for the past three years at DCHS. These clubs are Peer Tutors, Serva Fidem, and the Chick-fil-A Leadership Academy.

Nguyen feels the most impact not when she accomplishes a big task, but when she sees the goal or task being used elsewhere. It’s inspiring when she sees the joy on others’ faces due to the impact of these clubs. It is most encouraging when she knows that something she did was a part of the impact.

Balancing multiple clubs can be difficult, not to mention balancing clubs on top of academics, family, and personal time. Nguyen uses a calendar to keep track of her plans. She makes sure to keep it with her at all times in case there’s a change in plans. Although a calendar helps, Nguyen still sometimes feels overwhelmed during heavy weeks. Despite the stress of meetings, events, and deadlines, she maintains a good attitude. Nguyen always remembers to take a step back and breathe when needed. She proves that, with the right balance, anyone can make time to get involved in their school community.

Nguyen encourages others to get involved. She believes it’s important to build a resume, gain experience, and open new doors. She loves creating a sense of community and wants others to have that same experience.

Nguyen was inspired by others to join clubs. She is always open to new experiences and isn’t afraid to branch out. She was inspired by the impact that is possible within a community. 

The Student Philanthropy Council develops student leaders through engagement with the Advancement Department, which includes fundraising, alumni services, events, marketing, and communication. Members will increase their project management, public speaking, and leadership skills, as well as build their college resume and network. 

Academic tutoring is offered to students in grades K-12 throughout the school and community. Students provide individual tutoring at several elementary schools and at DCHS.

C.O.R.E. Advancement is a student-led group whose purpose is to unite strong leaders to promote progress toward racial, social, and educational equality at Dowling Catholic.

Help coach, train, and interact with special needs adults participating in swim, track, and bowling events. 

Strives to develop high school students into intentional disciples who will keep the faith for the rest of their lives, and especially through college. Serva Fidem does this by supporting students in forming deep, personal relationships with Christ through small group ministry and faith mentoring.

The Fashion Club gives students a space to thrift, sew, design, style, and create—bringing their unique visions to life! Whether it’s upcycling old clothes into something new, designing original pieces, or learning how to style outfits for different looks, the club encourages hands-on exploration of fashion as both art and self-expression.

To recognize and encourage academic achievement while developing other characteristics essential to good citizenship, including character, service, and leadership. 

An all-school project led by the senior class to assist needy families during the holiday. The Business Committee works to collect donations and funds to support the mission. 

Students are matched with an elementary student through the Big Brothers, Big Sisters Organization. Matches meet one-on-one at the child’s elementary school for 30-60 minutes each week after school. The goal is to build a relationship to help increase the child’s self-confidence and improve academic performance.