Why did you choose to attend the University of Mississippi?
I chose the University of Mississippi for a combination of practical and personal reasons. As a transfer student, the scholarships I received made Ole Miss an affordable option for me, and I was drawn to the lively campus and active community. I also really appreciated the welcoming atmosphere and the cleanliness and beauty of Oxford. More than anything, I knew the School of Education had a strong reputation and would challenge me to grow into the best teacher I could be. Honestly, transferring to Ole Miss was a decision I had made before I even started at ICC. I knew I wanted to eventually make my way to Ole Miss, and I am grateful that I had the opportunity to do so.
I chose the University of Mississippi for a combination of practical and personal reasons. As a transfer student, the scholarships I received made Ole Miss an affordable option for me, and I was drawn to the lively campus and active community. I also really appreciated the welcoming atmosphere and the cleanliness and beauty of Oxford. More than anything, I knew the School of Education had a strong reputation and would challenge me to grow into the best teacher I could be. Honestly, transferring to Ole Miss was a decision I had made before I even started at ICC. I knew I wanted to eventually make my way to Ole Miss, and I am grateful that I had the opportunity to do so.
What inspired you to pursue a graduate degree within the School of Education?
My decision to pursue graduate school came from the same desire that brought me to Ole Miss in the first place: I wanted to continue growing as an educator. I wanted to build my knowledge, skills and connections in ways that would make me a stronger mathematics teacher. My graduate experience has challenged me to think more deeply about how students learn and how I can better meet their needs. I knew I was not finished learning, and I wanted to continue developing both as a teacher and as a person.
My decision to pursue graduate school came from the same desire that brought me to Ole Miss in the first place: I wanted to continue growing as an educator. I wanted to build my knowledge, skills and connections in ways that would make me a stronger mathematics teacher. My graduate experience has challenged me to think more deeply about how students learn and how I can better meet their needs. I knew I was not finished learning, and I wanted to continue developing both as a teacher and as a person.
Can you tell me about a professor or a class you’ve taken that has had the most impact on you?
Two of the most influential mentors in my time at Ole Miss have been Dr. Sally Quong and Dean David Rock. Dr. Quong was the first professor I had the privilege of meeting after transferring to Ole Miss. From the beginning, she embodied the qualities of an inspiring educator. Her dedication to guiding, mentoring and supporting future teachers gave me a deep appreciation for the School of Education and the kind of educator I hope to become.
After my junior year, I had the opportunity to learn under Dean Rock, who changed the way I think about teaching mathematics. He taught me that there is a difference between simply being a math teacher and being a great teacher of mathematics. His enthusiasm for learning, exploration and trying new things challenged me to approach teaching with greater purpose and curiosity.
Both Dr. Quong and Dean Rock have consistently practiced what they teach. I have personally witnessed their commitment to their students’ growth, their leadership and their willingness to invest in future educators. Their expertise, ambition, practical approach and sense of humor have made them role models for me. I am incredibly grateful for the ways they have influenced me as a learner and strengthened my passion for teaching.
Two of the most influential mentors in my time at Ole Miss have been Dr. Sally Quong and Dean David Rock. Dr. Quong was the first professor I had the privilege of meeting after transferring to Ole Miss. From the beginning, she embodied the qualities of an inspiring educator. Her dedication to guiding, mentoring and supporting future teachers gave me a deep appreciation for the School of Education and the kind of educator I hope to become.
After my junior year, I had the opportunity to learn under Dean Rock, who changed the way I think about teaching mathematics. He taught me that there is a difference between simply being a math teacher and being a great teacher of mathematics. His enthusiasm for learning, exploration and trying new things challenged me to approach teaching with greater purpose and curiosity.
Both Dr. Quong and Dean Rock have consistently practiced what they teach. I have personally witnessed their commitment to their students’ growth, their leadership and their willingness to invest in future educators. Their expertise, ambition, practical approach and sense of humor have made them role models for me. I am incredibly grateful for the ways they have influenced me as a learner and strengthened my passion for teaching.
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
After graduation, I hope to teach in a K-12 setting for however long the Lord calls me there. My biggest goal is to become the kind of mathematics teacher who pours into her students, prepares them well and challenges them to believe they are capable of more than they may initially think. I want to continue learning, improving and striving to be a better teacher throughout my career.
I also hope to be a supportive and contributing member of whatever community I am part of. Whether that eventually includes pursuing a specialist degree, working at ICC, or taking a different path, I want to use the opportunities I have been given to give back and invest in others. Above all, I hope to let my light shine for Christ wherever I am and to serve my students, fellow educators and community well.
After graduation, I hope to teach in a K-12 setting for however long the Lord calls me there. My biggest goal is to become the kind of mathematics teacher who pours into her students, prepares them well and challenges them to believe they are capable of more than they may initially think. I want to continue learning, improving and striving to be a better teacher throughout my career.
I also hope to be a supportive and contributing member of whatever community I am part of. Whether that eventually includes pursuing a specialist degree, working at ICC, or taking a different path, I want to use the opportunities I have been given to give back and invest in others. Above all, I hope to let my light shine for Christ wherever I am and to serve my students, fellow educators and community well.