Rooted in Faith: Mary Builds Confidence and Community
- adethlefs
- Oct 29
- 4 min read
When junior Mary Cing first walked through the doors of Providence Cristo Rey High School, she was the only Chin/Burmese student on campus. Her older brother, James (‘23), had just graduated the year prior.
“It was a little intimidating at first,” she admitted. “People just didn’t know much about our culture, but everyone was welcoming. Over time, it became a place where I could really be myself.”
Three years later, Mary has become a bridge between cultures, communities, and classmates helping shape Providence into a school where every student feels seen, celebrated, and supported.
Growing in Faith and Confidence
Faith has always been at the center of Mary’s life. Whether through Peer Ministry, monthly Masses, or quiet moments of reflection in the chapel, she’s found countless ways to deepen her relationship with God.
“I love that there’s always time here to pause and have a calm moment with God,” she said. “Peer Ministry has helped me grow by being around people who share their faith and what they’re going through. We all experience similar things, it’s just nice to know you’re not alone.”
That perspective has shaped her approach to leadership and community.
“Providence gives you so many opportunities to step out of your comfort zone,” she said. “At first, interactions are awkward, but they get better. You learn to open up and grow.”
Involved and Inspired
Mary’s involvement at Providence runs deep. She’s a member of the volleyball team, student council, shadow host program, choir, and student ambassadors.
“I’ve always wanted to join choir,” she smiled. “And with volleyball, it’s the community… It’s where I feel comfortable and confident.” Still, it was her experience as a Student Ambassador that surprised her most.
“It wasn’t what I expected,” she said. “You get to meet new people, go to events, and represent the school. It taught me how to communicate better and what’s possible for students like us.”
Through service days, retreats, and leadership programs, Mary has learned to take initiative and push herself beyond what’s familiar.
“As a freshman, I was scared,” she admitted. “But retreats helped me open up. You learn that everyone is there to grow, not just you.”
“As a freshman, I was scared,” she admitted. “But retreats helped me open up. You learn that everyone is there to grow, not just you.”
Representing Her Heritage
As only the second Chin/Burmese student at Providence, Mary took pride in helping pave the way for others to follow. Now, with more students from the Burmese community joining the Wolf Pack, she’s focused on creating an environment that embraces diversity and belonging.
“It’s been really special to see more Burmese students come here,” she said. “During shadow days, I get to connect with them and share about our culture. I hope it helps them feel more comfortable and seen.” Mary has been leading the charge to host a Burmese Heritage Assembly to showcase the culture and beauty of Burma this year.
Her advocacy extends beyond school, too. Inspired by her mother, who helps spread the word about Providence Cristo Rey within the Burmese community, Mary now shares her own experiences with younger students. “My mom has always been really involved,” she said. “I’ve learned from her that even small actions can open doors for others.”
Academic Growth and Future Goals
In the classroom, Mary thrives in Theology and AP English Language, where she can explore her faith and sharpen her writing skills. Her biggest academic challenge? AP Chemistry. “It takes more time to understand,” she laughed, “but it’s worth it.”
Through the Corporate Work Study Program, Mary has worked at MJ Insurance and Dawes Fretzin Dermatology Group, gaining professional confidence and learning how to connect with colleagues. “CWS helps you express yourself,” she said. “You get to meet people you wouldn’t normally talk to and learn what it’s like to work in a corporate setting.”
“You get to meet people you wouldn’t normally talk to and learn what it’s like to work in a corporate setting.”
She also values the summer internship and program opportunities that Providence has connected her with. “They’ve opened so many doors,” she said. “You really start to see what you’re capable of.”
Looking Ahead
Mary dreams of a future in medicine, inspired by her compassion for others and her love for children.
“I want to work with kids, maybe as a nurse or pediatrician,” she said. “I want to stay close to my family, so maybe Notre Dame. I like that it’s faith-based.”
“I want to work with kids, maybe as a nurse or pediatrician,” she said. “I want to stay close to my family, so maybe Notre Dame. I like that it’s faith-based.”
Rooted in her faith, Mary knows she’s not walking this path alone. She’s surrounded by a close group of friends who have been by her side since freshman year celebrating the highs, supporting each other through the lows, and reminding her of the strength that comes from community.
She also credits her mentor, Mr. Gonzalez, for playing a key role in her growth.
“He was a great mentor for my brother before me, and he’s been one for me too,” she said. “He’s seen me as my own person since the very beginning. I know I can count on him for advice and guidance.”
Through these relationships and through her faith Mary has gained a deeper sense of confidence and clarity about her future.
“Providence has helped me see what’s possible,” she said. “Faith, family, community: it’s all connected here. I’ve learned to trust that with God, I can handle anything.”
