Why was SEMO a smart choice for you?

SEMO was a smart choice for me because I was able to attend a university close to home while pursuing my degree. I had heard great things about SEMO's education program, and after attending several events on SEMO's campus, I decided to attend the university. As a senior in college, I am glad that I made this decision. Through experiences on campus and in classes, I have learned strategies that have helped me become an effective teacher. SEMO has helped me grow as both a professional and a person.

What is it that you feel sets SEMO apart when you were making your college decision?

SEMO's education program set it apart when I was making my college decision. I had researched similar programs at other universities in the state, and SEMO's program is said to be excellent. Resources provided to future educators, including the EDvolution center, showed me that I would be receiving a quality education in my degree program.

What is your major and how do you feel that program is preparing you for a successful career?

My major is elementary education with a middle school add-on in mathematics. I feel that the program is preparing me for a successful career by allowing me to have experience within the classroom. I love how the field experiences have us start by observing and gradually assist us until we are teaching daily. My confidence as a teacher has grown, and I am ready for when I have my own classroom next year. Also, the education program has done an excellent job providing us with virtual tools and tips through the EDvolution center. This year, with COVID-19, the schools must be prepared to virtually teach the students at any moment. This technology preparation has allowed me to become comfortable teaching in a virtual format. At the EDvolution center, I have also experimented with virtual reality, green screens, Merge Cubes, Ozobots, and many other pieces of technology that will help to keep my students engaged in learning.

Do you have a scholarship?

Yes

If you have a scholarship, how will your scholarship from SEMO help you graduate with less debt and what will that mean for your life after graduation?

My scholarship from SEMO will help me graduate with less debt by helping me with my expenses while attending the university. After graduation, I will be able to focus on caring for my students and buying supplies needed for my classroom rather than paying off a large student loan.

What is your favorite thing about SEMO?

My favorite thing about SEMO is the friendly atmosphere. The Chartwells’s staff and the professors are always helpful and kind. The students help each other out in the dorms as well as during classes. I have enjoyed getting to know staff, faculty, and students on the SEMO campus.

Describe SEMO in two sentences.

SEMO is an amazing place to meet new people and prepare for a future career. It is a wonderful university for anyone who wants to be part of a marvelous academic community.

What makes SEMO faculty great?

SEMO faculty is great because they care for their students. My professors are willing to work with me to make sure I do my best on my work. I have had faculty meet with me on the weekends and outside of official office hours to help me with projects. Through constructive feedback and collaboration, I have been able to improve my teaching abilities and help my students’ learning.

Describe life on campus?

Life on campus is fantastic. Living in a community-style dorm room has shown me that the floor members care about each other and are willing to lend a helping hand whenever necessary. Being involved around campus has allowed me to meet people in programs outside of education. New friends are made through late night study sessions and group projects. I am grateful I have had the opportunity to experience these things on SEMO’s campus.

Are you involved in Greek Life, Honors Program or any other student organization, please tell us about that experience and how it has impacted you.

I have been involved in several student organizations on campus, including ASCD: Teachers of Tomorrow, Kappa Delta Pi- Alpha Eta chapter, and the Student Missouri State Teachers Association (SMSTA). These organizations have helped me gain leadership experiences by serving in positions such as service chair and fundraising chair. They have also allowed me to volunteer and better serve my community. Through these organizations, I have found that I would like to continue to volunteer and help others in whatever ways I can.