Plymouth-Whitemarsh High School Class of 1982: What do you do now for work?
Zoe: I am currently keeping myself busy as a multimedia crafter. I was NEVER creative or artistic but covid allowed me to find my niche while we were all stuck indoors. One thing led to another and now I make personalized gifts for others. A fulfilling hobby has become a little side business called Zovz Creations. “Zovz” translates to “Zov’s” in Armenian. It’s so rewarding to see how happy people get when they receive something you have made personally for them and their loved ones.
What has your career path been since graduation from PW?
Zoe: My career changed quickly when I got married and moved out to Los Angeles in 1986. I started by working for Countrywide Funding’s Correspondent Lending Dept. in their corporate offices in Pasadena but left when I became pregnant with our first child and decided to be a stay-at-home mom. By the time our 3rd child was born, I became more and more involved in volunteering at their elementary school which led me to a part-time position in the front office. A few years later I became the office manager and loved every second of it. I had to retire early a few years ago to take care of my ailing parents. It was hard to leave all the little ones at the school but I’m so thankful that I did because I got to spend my parent’s last few years caring for them with no regret.
Tell us about your family.
Zoe: As some of you know, I met my husband George when we were kids as our parents were good friends. A fun fact is that I actually didn’t like him much as a kid because he and my older brother would always pick on me. So, it’s safe to say that it’s a fine line between love and hate because he is my best friend. He, along with his family, moved out to L.A. back in 1973. One day, while at PW, George came back to visit family and friends and the rest is history. So for those of you who thought he was a phantom boyfriend back then … he wasn’t.
What are you doing now?
George just retired from Santa Barbara County as the director of Community Services and Housing. He’s enjoying his retirement with his lifelong hobby of restoring classic cars. Now it’s time for us to travel!!! We’ve been married for 37 years and have three amazing children. Our son Sako, who works for the Gas Co., got married to our beautiful daughter-in-law Armine last June and is expecting their first baby in November (we’re so excited). Our older daughter Careen, lives in San Diego and works for a marketing company where she is the Social Media Manager for San Diego State University’s athletic program. Our youngest daughter Aleena, finished law school, lives in Santa Barbara, and works for the county’s Behavioral Wellness Dept. I’m sorry and I don’t mean to come off like I’m bragging but we are very proud of them and the adults they have become.
What did you dream of becoming when you were in high school?
Zoe: I was a little confused at the time with 2 careers but chose to go into cosmetology to become a corrective make-up artist working with doctors to help patients with scars. I went to school, got my license, and started the career path until George and I got married and I moved out to L.A. Since it’s a different state, I had to start all over again and get my license here in California but I needed to work and that’s how I wound up at Countrywide. Things happen for a reason.
What advice would you give to your high school self?
Zoe: Looking back, I would tell myself to take a step back and think before you react and always stay true to myself because it will define who you are later in life. It’s hard to do that as a teenager which is why we always gave our kids the same advice.
What advice do you have for others about creating your best life?
Zoe: Pretty much the same advice as what I would tell my high school self because that’s how you set the foundation in your personal and professional life. Life has it challenges and it’s not always fair. Sometimes you’re not able to solve all the challenges but always be proud that you tried and that you did your very best. Live your life to the fullest and love your loved ones unconditionally.
What would you like to say to all of your classmates today?
Zoe: Oh my gosh there is SO MUCH to say. I had the time of my life with you all at PW. I lost my brother when I was in 9th grade and in all sincerity, I never felt alone thanks to all my friends. I remember so many memories so vividly that brings a smile to my face every time I think of them and I know some of you know what I’m talking about. I am who I am today because of my amazing friends. I wish nothing but the best for all of you and wish you all a lifetime of health and happiness.
Contact Zoe:
- Instagram: instagram.com/zovchap
- Facebook: facebook.com/zoe.chapjian
- Email: zchapjian@gmail.com.