Student Profiles
How does your major (and minor) fit into your life's plan?
I was actually hired in my current position before I had even complete my student teaching. Since I was a December graduate, this worked out perfectly for me.
How has your experience at MSSU enhanced (or advanced) your career goals?
My relationship with my professors has carried on into my professional life. I still keep in contact with several of the professors on a regular basis.
Tell us about something you are/were involved with at MSSU (a sport, a club, etc.) and how it's changed you.
While attending MSSU, I was active in the Art League. It was a small group of students and a professor who met weekly to discuss contemporary art issues. I learned more about art from that group than anything else.
Tell us about a great experience or opportunity you've had at MSSU.
Through the MSSU International Mission, I was able to travel all around the world. Through the education program, I spent 2 weeks in Italy and took a 2 week tour of Australia and New Zealand. Through the Art Department, I spent 5 weeks in Sweden and 1 week in London. The things that I saw and did on these trips changed my perspective on a global scale. I would not be who I am today without having taken those trips. I have such an appreciation for trying new things and understanding new cultures and that carries over into my teaching.
What's your favorite spot on campus and why?
My favorite spot on campus is the big grassy area in front of the Spiva Art Gallery. I designed a 50 ft. sculpture to go there in one of my classes and I remember playing frisby there on more than one occasion, once even in the snow!
Why did you choose to attend MSSU?
I actually did not have plans to attend college, but I got a couple of scholarships and my financial aid made it affordable for me so I went for it.
Discuss ways the professors in your area of study assist (or assisted) you.
The art department fostered my appreciation for trying new things and exploring who I am. Through the Summer in Sweden program and the Art League, I made really personal discoveries about what I believe and what is important in life.
Tell us how MSSU staff members are/were especially helpful to you.
The art education supervisor actually started teaching at MSSU the semester that I did my student teaching. Even though I’ve never had her as a teacher (only a supervisor), we have a strong relationship that extends beyond the University into the community. Through this relationship, MSSU now hosts an area-wide art show for elementary/high school students each year. It is an incredible partnership.
What was your favorite part about life on campus?
I commuted from Granby so it was a pretty long drive every day. But I worked on campus so I really loved working and taking classes at the same place.
Tell us about one thing at MSSU that no student should miss.
No student should attend MSSU without taking a trip abroad. If they are in the Art Department, they MUST take advantage of the Summer in Sweden at least once!
Tell us about your experience in an internship, a project, a student organization, etc.
I was very involved in extracurricular activities at MSSU. I was part of the art league. I worked on campus in the Financial Aid Office. I also taught Freshman Orientation and helped with Fresh Start in the summer.