As her senior year comes to a close, Special Education major Kapri Dowdell has her eyes set on her future as an educator. After graduation, Kapri is heading home to Chicago as an elementary school teacher in Chicago Public Schools, with plans to return to school for a Master's in Administration in a few years. When asked about her dream job, Kapri stated, "I want to return to school or have a higher power in our education system to advocate for our students with special needs for academic, emotional, and mental support."
A little bit about Kapri:
Q: Where is home for you?
A: Chicago, Illinois!
Q: What is your year and major?
A: I'm a senior majoring in Special Education.
Q: What do you enjoy about the campus experience, so far?
A: The best thing about my campus experience was being able to meet new people, especially aspiring teachers. Also, just being able to be involved in different organizations on campus.
Q: How did you know you wanted to go into the field of education?
A: Due to my health condition, I realized how people treat others differently due to their disabilities. I want to advocate and inspire students to be the best they can be regardless of the barriers they have. Also, to help my peers to become more knowledgeable about disabilities.
Q: What do you enjoy about the College of Education?
A: I love that everything is hands-on and there are so many resources within an arm's reach to help pursue your dream as an educator.
Q: Do you have a favorite professor or course? Why?
A: One of my favorite professors over the four years was Rebecca Hacker. I had her for two semesters and she truly has a heart of gold! Everything we learned she made purposeful and relatable. During the pandemic we sometimes needed more than just a professor, and Rebecca was able to step in to fill any role we needed at that time.
Q: What is a fun fact about yourself?
A: I've been dancing since I was 3 years old.
Q: Tell us about your future career plans after graduating and why you want to pursue that field.
A: When I graduate this upcoming May, I will be working in Chicago Public Schools in an elementary school. Within the next two to three years, I will be going to get my Master's in Administration. I want to be a principal or have a higher power in our education system to advocate for our students with special needs for academic, emotional, and mental support.
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