Meet Fatmata Koroma!

As part of our ongoing series Meet Our GDS Faculty and Staff, we are excited to present: Meet Fatmata Koroma!

Read the Q&A below to learn more about Fatmata.

Primary Role: Associate Director of College Counseling and 9th Grade Advisor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Years at GDS: 4  

 

What do you love about GDS? 
I love the amazing resources at GDS that support students’ varied interests, provide opportunities for them to explore those curiosities, and help them develop a strong sense of self. From Minimester to Senior Quest, to the Policy Institute, to affinity spaces, there are so many ways for students to explore both academic and extracurricular areas to the fullest extent. Spaces like our makerspace, black box theater, workshop, and weight room, along with all the clubs, activities, and affinity spaces, offer countless opportunities for growth.

Why do you do your job? 
I don’t remember my college counselor, but I do know that my collegiate experience was transformative. It’s important to me that students feel confident and supported as they navigate the complex and layered college process and come out triumphant on the other side. I have worked on the college side, but I knew I wanted an opportunity to develop richer, longer-lasting relationships with students during this process, and that has been a rewarding shift.

A favorite part of your job? 
Rejoicing with a student after they finalize their personal statement or an essay they’ve been working on is a magical moment. When they are proud of how they’ve beautifully articulated a memorable experience, a passion project, or a value that’s important to them, it’s truly special! Also, graduation (I’m not crying, you’re crying!)

Your work style in a few words? 
Nurturing, values-driven, inquisitive, thorough. 

A top hope/wish for your students and/or colleagues?
I hope you do not allow yourself to get lost in comparison and take time to celebrate your wins—big and small!

Personal passions/hobbies/pastimes?
Sewing, painting, and pyrography (wood burning)—I'm big on arts and crafts in general, traveling, spending time with my family, listening to music, walking outdoors in nature, and dancing. I also started an art series exploring and reflecting on the 99 Names of Allah which has been a beautiful journey. 

A few favorites…?
Favorite recipes: Attieke, Fish & Sweet Plantains–it’s delicious! (Meriwether-Godsey, are you reading this?)
Favorite movies: Coming to America, The Notebook, Love and Basketball, The Devil Wears Prada, and the Harry Potter series
Favorite band: I listen to so many artists and genres, it is hard to pin one down. But, my favorite artist is probably Whitney Houston; I could listen to her all day!
Favorite countries I’ve traveled to: Guinea, Australia, Japan, Montenegro

Tell us about your family and/or pet(s). 
I am married and have three children (6 years old, 5 years old, 7 months), no pets or plants (I’ve tried!)—I’m focused on keeping the three children alive and healthy for now :) My extended family is huge, and I loved growing up with a big family that’s spread out all over the world!

One thing about yourself your students/colleagues/others probably don't know? 
I love to facilitate/host paint parties! It's a joy to help people find and nurture their creativity. 

If you happen to have a bucket list, one thing on your life bucket list you've already accomplished?
Going skydiving—it was exhilarating! 

Something on your life bucket list you have yet to accomplish? 
Seeing the Aurora Borealis (Northern) lights and visiting a bioluminescent sea.