Major: Liberal Studies in Education
What inspired you to choose your major?
I decided to become a teacher because I have always enjoyed working with children and wanted to pursue a career where I can work in an environment that focuses on working with youth. I find teaching a humbling position because of the impact these children have on my life and how I am able to interact with the future generation. I am excited to be each child’s number one supporter and aid them in their lifelong journey of learning and building the skills to be active members in their community who are asking questions to find solutions and create positive change.
How has your major’s program helped you succeed in your future career?
One of my favorite aspects of the Cal Lutheran teacher training program is the numerous opportunities we have during our undergraduate years to volunteer in the classroom and work directly with teachers and students. This has allowed me to apply what I have been learning in my classes in the classroom and begin to develop an idea of the type of teacher I want to be. This aspect has allowed me to gain experience firsthand and gain the confidence that this is the career that I want to pursue and I am so excited for. Our program also has amazing professors that have become my mentors and number-one supporters on my journey to becoming a teacher.
How else has your major’s program helped you excel in your studies?
This program consists of courses that prepare you for aspects of being an elementary teacher. You discuss your mission statement as a teacher, brainstorm the type of teacher you want to be, design your future classroom, and discuss the Universal Design of Learning, differentiation, Culturally Responsive Teaching, management plan, and other aspects of teaching. You also take courses on certain subjects that you will be responsible to teach as an elementary school teacher. I recommend looking into which LSED courses double dip with the Core Requirement classes so that you do not have to take extra courses. In addition, be aware of classes that are only offered during a certain semester. Each semester I took around 16 to 17 credits.
Any advice for those pursuing a Liberal Studies in Education degree?
My advice for someone pursuing liberal studies education or multiple subject majors at Cal Lutheran is to take advantage of all the opportunities this program offers you to work with elementary schools in the area. I have built numerous relationships with various teachers at various schools that I have learned so much from. I highly recommend volunteering in the classroom during your first year to make sure that this is the profession you want to pursue. I also recommend if you are wanting to earn your credential from Cal Lutheran you can start the graduate program as an undergraduate. The graduate program is split between Foundations and Methods courses. As an undergraduate, you can complete your foundation courses so that after you graduate you can start student teaching that fall. I took my first foundation course in my spring semester of junior year and then I took one foundation course each semester until I graduated.
What are your future plans?
After graduation, I am continuing my education here at Cal Lutheran to receive my multiple subject credential and my master’s. I will begin student teaching in Fall 2022 as part of the PDS model. I am so excited to have my own classroom one day where I can empower each student who walks through my door. I am excited to build a welcoming and accepting classroom community where each student believes in their ability to learn and recognizes the importance of their effort and ability to grow during the year. I am looking forward to those light bulb moments and bringing learning to life through creative lessons. I can’t wait to apply everything that I have learned and I am looking forward to this lifelong journey of learning and self-reflecting so that I can support my students in their educational journey.