Attending  TFS from 2nd through 8th grade and graduating in 2020, Conor Kozak reflects on the school's powerful impact on his life. The experiences, friendships, and values formed during those years continue to shape who he is today. “To me, TFS means community and family,” shares Conor. Now a student at Catholic University in Washington, DC, majoring in Philosophy and preparing for law school, Conor sees his time at TFS as the cornerstone of his journey.

After leaving TFS, Conor graduated from Cardinal Gibbons High School in 2024. Throughout high school, he was involved in varsity soccer, a commitment that took up much of his time. Despite the rigorous schedule, Conor found ways to stay engaged in spiritual life at school. He participated in retreats, service projects, and other faith-based activities, reinforcing the values he learned at TFS.

Attending Catholic schools throughout high school and now in college, Conor found that his understanding of faith continues to deepen. Whether through the simple act of praying before class, discussing faith in secular topics, or participating in Mass and adoration, he learned to appreciate the small but meaningful moments that connected his faith to everyday life. These experiences helped him maintain a strong spiritual foundation during the challenges of high school and as he transitioned into college life.

For Conor, the friendships formed at TFS have extended well beyond the classroom, lasting through high school and continuing into college. He shares, “I am fortunate enough that the friends that I made at TFS have lasted almost 12 years, and I can consider them family.”

The sense of belonging at TFS wasn’t just about academics; it was about a holistic approach to education, where faith and service were just as important as classroom lessons. Teachers at TFS had a profound impact on Conor, so much so that he wouldn’t single out just one. “When thinking about my time at TFS, I couldn't pick just one teacher who impacted me more than another; they all influenced me differently.” Whether through their passion for teaching or modeling how to live out faith and service in everyday actions, the commitment to nurturing intellectual and spiritual growth was a defining feature of his time at TFS.

Looking back, Conor recalls some of his favorite memories from TFS. The two 8th-grade trips to Washington, DC, and Camp Hanes were highlights. These trips gave him the opportunity to bond with classmates, explore new places, and experience the world beyond school walls.

Sports were also essential to Conor’s TFS experience: he was involved in the cross country team in 6th grade and the soccer team in 7th and 8th grades. The relationships built with teammates and coaches during these years remain meaningful to this day.

Now studying Philosophy pre-law at Catholic University, Conor has a clear vision for the future. He hopes to attend law school after graduation and eventually pursue a career in law, where he can advocate for justice and serve others. The foundational values of faith and service instilled at TFS and Cardinal Gibbons continue to inspire his career aspirations.

For the current students at TFS, Conor offers this advice: “For the younger kids, have fun at P.E. and recess. For the older students, make your faith your own as it will guide you through the difficulties of high school. Own your faith and be proud of it, but also have fun while doing it.”

As he moves forward at Catholic University and into law school, Conor carries with him the lessons of faith, community, and service that began at TFS—a journey that will continue to shape his path for many years.