Carol Hajian
Carol Hajian is an experienced educator and communications professional based in Waltham, Massachusetts. Currently serving as a Substitute Teacher for the City of Beverly Public Schools, she brings enthusiasm and adaptability to her role, supporting students across various grade levels. With prior experience as a long-term substitute in Somerville and Weston, Carol has worked with students from preschool through 12th grade, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to fostering engaging classroom environments.
Before entering the education field, Carol built a strong foundation in journalism and communications. A graduate of Northeastern University with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, she began her career as a reporter and sports photographer for the Northeastern News. Over the years, she expanded her expertise through positions in administrative support, event management, and public relations, including more than a decade with The Adecco Group. Her professional journey reflects her strengths in writing, public speaking, and creative communication — skills she continues to apply in her work as an educator and storyteller.
Beyond teaching, Carol has pursued creative writing projects, including stand-up comedy and children’s literature, showcasing her love for language and storytelling. Her diverse background in media, education, and community engagement underscores her passion for connecting with people and inspiring others through both words and action. As she continues her work in education, Carol remains dedicated to fostering curiosity, communication, and confidence in every student she teaches.
• Northeastern University - BA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the invaluable mentorship I received from David Talilogis at Suffolk University. His guidance helped shape my professional growth and career direction. Additionally, building a strong network played a significant role in helping me secure opportunities and land my first job after college.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the education field is to never stop learning—make continuous reading and professional growth a priority. Stay curious and open to new ideas, as education is constantly evolving. Most importantly, focus on student engagement and motivation; when students feel inspired and supported, meaningful learning naturally follows.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in education today is adapting to the changing needs and behaviors of modern students. During my experience teaching a 4th-grade class on a temporary basis for four months, I noticed how different this generation is from those in the past—students today require constant engagement and creative approaches to stay motivated. Another challenge is the increasing level of accountability teachers face, from ongoing self-review processes to external evaluations. While mentor support can sometimes be limited, I found that collaboration with administrative and front-office staff provided valuable assistance and guidance throughout the experience.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me in both my work and personal life center around community service and giving back. I actively participate in charitable initiatives that address food insecurity and support homeless children through organizations like Birthday Wishes. I also help organize Christmas shoebox donations for underprivileged children around the world. I believe that donating time and effort holds greater meaning than simply giving money, and I strive to maintain a balance between my professional responsibilities and my commitment to volunteerism.
Locations
City of Beverly
Beverly, MA 01915