2005
Column started
Weekly Column · Observer-Reporter · Since 2005
Ask Mary Jo
A weekly column by Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski, published in the Observer-Reporter since 2005. Real questions. Honest answers. For teens and the people who care about them.
Explore the columns20+
Years of columns
1,000+
Questions answered
Recent Columns
Real questions. Honest answers.
Click a column to read the full article on the Observer-Reporter website.
Personal Growth
Grow Into Adulthood a Day at a Time
Growing into adulthood is a process, not a finish line. Dr. Mary Jo offers encouragement for taking the next right step while allowing yourself time to learn, change, and grow.
College & Future
Adjusting to College Life Takes Time
A first-year college student shares anxiety about adjusting to campus life — Dr. Mary Jo offers reassurance, practical coping strategies, and a gentle nudge to be honest with mom.
Future & Careers
Choose a Career That's Right for You
Choosing a career path can feel overwhelming — Dr. Mary Jo offers guidance on how teens can explore their passions, strengths, and values to find a future that truly fits.
College & Future
Pack Smart for College
Heading off to college? Dr. Mary Jo shares practical advice on packing smart — what to bring, what to leave behind, and how to prepare for life away from home.
Mental Health
No Timeline to Grief
Grief doesn't follow a schedule — Dr. Mary Jo explores how teens and families can navigate loss without the pressure of a timeline.
Family & Home
Rising Above a Toxic Home Life
When home feels unsafe or unhealthy, teens need tools and support to rise above their circumstances and find their own path forward.
Communication
Keeping in Tune with Today's Slang
Language evolves fast — understanding the slang teens use today can open doors to better communication and deeper connection between generations.
Future & Careers
Uncertainty About Career Choice Not Uncommon
Feeling unsure about what to do with your future is completely normal — Dr. Mary Jo explores why career uncertainty is a healthy part of growing up.
Technology
How Much Screen Time Is Too Much?
Screen time is a constant conversation in families today — but how much is actually too much, and what really matters when it comes to teens and technology?
Technology
Finding Moderation Online
In a world of endless scrolling and constant connectivity, Dr. Mary Jo explores how teens can find healthy balance and moderation online.
About the Column
Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski has been answering questions from teens and families in her weekly Ask Mary Jo column since 2005. Her compassionate, evidence-based guidance covers relationships, mental health, family challenges, peer pressure, and more.
View All Columns on Observer-ReporterAsk Mary Jo is published in the Observer-Reporter and shared through SW PA Teen Outreach. The featured selections above are recent topics from the ongoing column.
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