Working seven jobs and being a single parent to five kids might sound stressful, but for St. Thomas Spanish professor Jana Jory, it’s just a part of her everyday life.

On top of being a college professor and a single parent, Jory is also a flight attendant for United Airlines, a personal trainer, a Spanish teacher and teaches five fitness classes.

Jory said she manages to handle her busy life by staying calm.

“I take a deep breath,” Jory said. “Actually, I’m also very religious, so I feel like everything in life is going to work out.”

When it comes to Jory’s favorite job, she said being a Spanish professor takes the cake.

“I love St. Thomas,” Jory said. “I taught at some other schools out in California before this, and (St. Thomas) is such a family environment. Everybody takes care of each other.”

Sophomore Roman Oberle said Jory is one of the best professors at St. Thomas.

“She’s definitely a teacher that’s always there for you,” Oberle said. “She’s always there to help you and she definitely cares about her students.”

Part of what fuels Jory is her passion for Spanish.

“Honestly, if I had my choice, I would never speak English again,” Jory said. “My ancestors are from Spain. I actually feel like a little bit different of a person when I’m speaking Spanish.”

Senior Peter Hubsmith said Jory’s passion for Spanish is evident in the classroom.

“I liked her teaching style and her interest in our well being,” Hubsmith said. “This is her job, and she loves it.”

With her plate full, Jory said she tries to stay calm in all situations.

“The calmer I am when I go into a stressful situation, the more creative the solutions will be,” Jory said. “I’m not perfect at it. Sometimes I do great, sometimes I don’t. My No. 1 way though is to go and work out in the gym.”

Alison Bengtson can be reached at beng4632@stthomas.edu.