Bulldog News
Jason Emery '05 finds calling at Hillside
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
He was a welcome, familiar face at the Hillside Farm. As a Hillside student, Jason Emery ’05 could often be found tending to the animals, repairing farm structures or doing any number of farm chores.
It is not surprising, then, that Hillside had tremendous influence on the latest chapter in Jason’s life: attending Ohio Wesleyan University where he is majoring in zoology.
As a freshman, Jason is spending much time becoming better acquainted with campus life. He already has plans to become active in Ohio Wesleyan’s environmental and outdoor clubs.
“In a real way, it all began with Hillside,” recounts Jason about his journey to Ohio Wesleyan. “Volunteering and working on the farm, I found out that I really liked animals – I knew that I wanted to do something similar both in college and for a career.”
Even while attending St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury, Jason’s next stop after Hillside, he continued to pursue his dreams. He made time to volunteer and later work for Animal Adventures in Bolton, MA, an organization dedicated to the rescue and care of abandoned exotic animals.
Hillside Summer Term students caught a glimpse of Jason’s handiwork when they were treated to his live snake demonstration at Kimball Farms in Westford this past summer. “The kids really seemed to enjoy learning about snakes,” recalled Jason. “It was a lot of fun to see them and Mr. Wilson, as well.”
Jason plans to continue working with Animal Adventures, whenever he is home from college, in an effort to help meet educational expenses. He also appreciates the mission of the organization, which is owned by a member of his church.
“They do a good job of caring for animals like ferrets, turtles and even alligators whose owners can no longer take care of them,” he says. “I’m glad to be a part of it.”
Jason’s love of exotic animals has even extended to a gift which he recently made to Hillside School: a three-foot long, ball python snake named Gilbert. “Now that I’m away at school, my mom suggested that I find a new home for him,” he explains. “I thought the school, and especially the students, would like the snake.”
Jason’s speculation has proven correct as his snake has attracted much attention and interest from students who visit science teacher Sharon McKenna’s classroom.
Looking back, Jason is grateful to Hillside for not only introducing him to his life’s passion but also preparing him for its challenges.
“Hillside gave me the work ethic and focus that is really helping me now in college and, I know, will stay with me the rest of my life,” he says. “Skills like time management, which I learned at Hillside, will always be important to me.”
He encourages other alumni to show their support for Hillside whether it be through volunteering for school projects or in the form of financial donations to the school.
“I was able to attend Hillside on a partial scholarship made possible by an alum,” he points out. “It would be great if other students had the same opportunity that I did.”
Looking ahead, Jason has big plans for the future. “I’d like to eventually become a veterinarian who specializes in working with exotic animals,” he says. “And, of course, I’ll always stay in touch with Hillside.”
As a student, Jason Emery '05 (above) worked in the Hillside kitchen.
Justin Murphy '12 holds Gilbert, a ball python snake that Jason recently presented to Hillside.
