Catching up with Salisbury graduate McKenna Bast

Catching up with Salisbury graduate McKenna Bast


What is your full name?

McKenna Flannigan Bast


When did you graduate from Salisbury?

2011


Tell us about your life since high school.

It’s been busy! 


Completed my B.A at Muhlenberg College in 2015 and went on for my M.S. in School Counseling/LPC at Kutztown University. After finishing my master’s in 2018 I began working in the Student Assistance Program in the Lehigh County school districts. I am now working as a clinician in a school-based outpatient program to obtain hours for my professional counseling licensure. 


Last year I bought a house and traveled the country for a few weeks, living out of my SUV. Both experiences have led to so much personal growth. 


What are your summer plans?

I had plans to complete the Half Dome Hike in Yosemite National Park. However, I think this will end up being rescheduled to next year. I have a few house projects I’m looking to complete so hopefully I can knock a few of those out this summer! 


What have you learned through this pandemic?

I could write a book on this topic, especially from working in mental health and the school districts. Personally though, I’ve learned to appreciate the small things. It’s easy to focus on all that we couldn't do during this time but I’ve tried to flip it to realize that now I have the opportunity to focus on activities I wouldn't ordinarily have the time for or prioritize. 


What was your favorite high school memory?

Sports. I loved my time playing for Salisbury. We had phenomenal coaches and players. I’ve played for a few teams since but nothing has ever compared to the bond we all had at Salisbury. 


What is your favorite movie or TV show and why? 

It’s so hard to choose just one! Jurassic Park has always been an old favorite of mine, I love dinosaurs and the score of that movie is beautiful. I also love the Marvel/Avengers movies. I remember going to see Iron Man in 2008 and have watched every movie since. They have a strong message, character development and great humor. 


How is your family doing?

They’re doing well! I swear they don’t age. My Dad has been retired from the district for a while now and helps me all the time in redoing things in our house. My Mom is looking forward to her retirement as well; she loves to travel and will definitely use her free time to see the world.


If you could meet anyone (alive or dead), who would you choose and why?

Steve Irwin. He was always my favorite growing up and sparked my passion for conservation,  adventure, and appreciation for animals. He loved every living creature and had such a pure heart. I love watching his kids carry on his legacy and mission. 


Who is your role model and why?

My parents, 100%. They worked incredibly hard all their life to be able to support me in everything I did. They taught me perseverance, resilience, and always fostered creativity, academics, athletics, etc. I wouldn't have been able to accomplish the things I have without their help and guidance. 


#yoursalisbury