Senior RJ Schlesinger's skills and interests are totally unique. At Illinois, RJ doesn't have to fit into one category-he can make his own! Through research, courses, and mentorship from his professors, RJ is taking all he has learned and sharing it by becoming an educator. RJ says "I want to teach! It’s equal parts exciting and terrifying, but I am up to the challenge!"
A little bit about RJ
Q: Where is home for you?
A: I'm from Aurora, Illinois.
Q: What is your major?
A: I'm a History Major, and a Secondary Education/Psychology/Music minor.
Q: What year are you in school?
A: Senior year!
Q: What do you enjoy about your campus experience, so far?
A: My favorite thing about my campus experience so far is the friends and memories I have made.
Q: How did you know you wanted to go into the field of education?
A: I always knew I wanted to help people and make a difference in the world, and the classroom allows me to use the skills I have to do that!
Q: What do you enjoy about the College of Education?
A: I love how open communication is in the College of Ed. Someone is always there to talk and help if you need it.
Q: Do you have a favorite professor, or course? Why?
A: Professor Hogarth in the History department is simply the best. She is so passionate and it’s infectious; she really inspires you to do your best (and is super funny).
Q: What is a fun fact about yourself?
A: I’m a Grammy winner!
Q: Tell us about any research you’ve done and the mentorship you’ve received from your instructors!
A: I have researched segments of mythology in the Aztec religion and am currently researching various persecutions in the Holocaust. I really enjoy how open my professors have been to discussing my topics and my research to help me refine my topic and aid my search. They’ve been super helpful.
Q: Where do you see yourself after graduation?
A: After graduation I want to teach! It’s equal parts exciting and terrifying, but I am up to the challenge! I am looking forward to making an impact on the lives of my students.
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