Q&A with Phi Beta Kappa Honoree Noelle LeLand ’16

Noelle LeLand ’16 on her Love of Learning and a Calling in Mental Health

From her first days at The Rumson Country Day School as a Beginner to her induction into the Phi Beta Kappa Society and beyond, Noelle LeLand ’16 has followed a path rooted in hard work and compassion. We caught up with Noelle to talk about her academic journey, her love of learning, and the RCDS experience that impacted her from a young age.

Can you share a bit about your academic path since RCDS?

After RCDS, I went on to RFH and then to the University of Georgia, where I majored in Psychology and minored in Human Services. I had an incredible college experience, and loved being immersed in coursework that deepened my understanding of human behavior and service-oriented work. I was fortunate to receive several academic honors- I graduated summa cum laude, received the Presidential Scholar Award, and was inducted into the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and Phi Beta Kappa in 2024.

I’m currently enrolled in Wake Forest University’s Master of Mental Health Counseling program, where I’m continuing to build on that foundation. This spring, I’ll begin seeing clients under supervision, which is an exciting next step in my clinical training.

Phi Beta Kappa celebrates intellectual rigor and curiosity. How do you think that has shown up in your life?

I think intellectual rigor and curiosity show up in my life in more ways than just academics. I love learning no matter the experience—meeting new people, exploring different perspectives, and trying new things. Whether it’s a conversation, a travel experience, or a new challenge, I’m always eager to understand and grow. Phi Beta Kappa’s celebration of curiosity really resonates with me because I see learning as a process that extends beyond the classroom.

What inspired you to pursue a career in mental health counseling?

I don’t have one defining moment that pushed me in this direction. It’s more that this path feels like an extension of who I am. People in my life often describe me as warm, approachable, and compassionate, and mental health counseling felt like the most meaningful way to put those qualities to work.

Are there any RCDS teachers who made a lasting impact on you?

The first person who comes to mind is Coach Camp. He had such a unique way of bringing joy and laughter to routine school days, always supporting us on and off the field. He truly embodies what it means to make meaningful impacts on a community. To me, that spirit is exactly what RCDS stands for.

How would you say the RCDS experience helped shape your approach to learning?

The teachers at RCDS were incredibly dedicated to each of us. Small classes and attentive teachers created a supportive and safe environment, which made it easy to fully engage with learning. Because our individual needs were recognized and nurtured, I developed confidence, discipline, and strong study habits that have stayed with me. The academic and life skills I learned there continue to shape how I approach learning today—I still write my essays using the methods I learned from Mr. and Mrs. Horner when I was probably 12.

What skills did you take away from RCDS that continue to serve you today?

I struggled with public speaking, but from a young age we were expected to practice, whether that was presenting in the classroom or in plays. Collaboration was a big part of my RCDS experience as well. It is such an important skill to be able to work in a group, emerge as a leader, and be a team player. And the classic RCDS planner! I cannot be without my big planner now. It taught me to be organized and manage my time. But probably the most important thing I learned is how to be a good person and lead with kindness and integrity.

What does being honored on Phi Beta Kappa Day as an RCDS alum mean to you?

It is incredibly meaningful to me and feels like giving back to a school that shaped so much of who I am. I hope that by sharing stories like this, younger students see the impact of hard work and feel inspired to not only succeed academically but also build meaningful relationships and make a positive difference in their communities. At the end of the day, success isn’t just about achievements—it’s about the way you show up for others and the impact you leave behind.

What advice would you give to current RCDS students?

Enjoy the small, everyday moments, because looking back, those are my most cherished. I’d also tell students that it’s cool to be smart. It’s cool to try hard and care about learning. There’s nothing embarrassing about being curious, and RCDS celebrates that.

Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future?

My dream would be to open a private practice that specializes in maternal mental health. But right now, I’m just excited to work with a diverse client population, learn as much as I can, and discover where I can make the greatest impact in supporting others.