blog posts

• 

  Morgan McCammon | Make the Most of Where You Are

  Nov 12, 2024 10:30 am144 views

  Morgan McCammon was ready to be a star on the basketball court. But after she became disabled, she wondered if her dream might be out of reach. However, she got involved with wheelchair basketball, which allowed her to continue to pursue that dream, which led her to the University of Illinois, where she's not only pursuing the dream of playing basketball at a high level but also her goal of becoming a teacher who inspires students to never give up on what they want to do. We talked to the senior Elementary Education major about her experience at Illinois.

• 

  Adhwita Gopi Selvan | Building the Next Generation of Critical Thinkers

  Jun 10, 2024 11:30 am29 views

  Adhwita Gopi Selvan took a leap. She decided to leave her home on the East Coast and come to Illinois to be part of the very first cohort of Computer Science + Education students at the University of Illinois. Adhwita has long been interested in Educational Technology, even starting her own non-profit to help students become interested and successful in STEM. We talked to her about her first year in the program, what she liked about her first year at Illinois, and her goals for the rest of her academic career in CS + Ed.

• 

  Emily Crosswell | A Future Serving Students and Her Country

  Sep 12, 2023 11:45 am144 views

  Emily Crosswell is involved all over campus and Central Illinois. The sophomore from Watseka teaches with IGlobal, has studied abroad, and spends some time with the Illinois Army National Guard. She's taking her life experience and passion for people into her future classroom. Read more about Emily in this week's Student Spotlight.

• 

  Jill Kartsounes | Being a Leader

  Sep 5, 2023 11:45 am79 views

  For Jill Kartsounes, being the leader came naturally. As a child, she always wanted to be the one in charge. The feeling of leading made her dream of her future classroom and career as a teacher. Now she's here at the College of Education, working to become an elementary teacher. 

• 

  Kate & Meghan McCurdy | Born to Teach

  Apr 10, 2023 3:15 pm3 views

  Kate and Meghan McCurdy are both Middle Grades Education majors with concentrations in mathematics from Orland Park, IL.

• 

  Anisa Chatman | Creating Positive Change

  Jan 31, 2023 2:30 pm56 views

  Anisa Chatman is a sophomore Learning and Education Studies major.

• 

  Cyrus Murray | Changing Lanes

  Jan 31, 2023 2:30 pm133 views

  Cyrus Murray is a junior English major, minoring in Secondary Education minor. 

• 

  Sydney Stephens | "Teachers are the foundation for everything."

  Jan 19, 2023 4:00 pm363 views

  Sydney Stephens is a junior Elementary Education major and student-athlete on the Illinois Soccer team.

• 

  Audrey Kermgard | Educators Shape Worldviews and Values

  Nov 9, 2022 1:15 pm140 views

  Audrey Kermgard is our featured undergraduate student in this week's student spotlight.

• 

  Grace Schlichter | Helping People & Inspiring Students

  Nov 9, 2022 1:15 pm245 views

  Grace Schlichter is our featured undergraduate student in this week's student spotlight.

• 

  Jasmine Castillo | "Everyone has a voice, and as a teacher I will encourage each student to use theirs."

  Nov 3, 2022 4:00 pm237 views

  Jasmine Castillo, a History major with Secondary Education and Spanish minors, Illinois is our student spotlight this week.

• 

  Xosa Cox | "It has always been a dream of mine to support others and understand cultures on a global scale."

  Oct 27, 2022 4:00 pm89 views

  Xosa Cox, a Learning and Education Studies Major from Chicago Heights, IL is our Student Spotlight this week.

• 

  Audrey Wong | "I want to be one of those teachers."

  Oct 13, 2022 4:00 pm112 views

  Audrey Wong is passionate about two things: biology and teaching. She decided to be a teacher after being inspired by her own high school teachers. Now at Illinois, Audrey is involved in research and has her sights set on bringing her love for biology to a new generation of students.

• 

  Ryan Eleveld | Making School Feel Like Home

  Oct 6, 2022 4:00 pm276 views

  Ryan Eleveld has a passion for science and teaching. The senior Specialized Chemistry major and Secondary Education minor can't wait to get into the classroom. Learn more about Ryan in this week's student spotlight.

• 

  Abby Lynch | "Equitable Opportunities Begin in Schools"

  Sep 29, 2022 4:00 pm134 views

  "I want to be involved in shaping the youth, and I believe education is more than just standards and schooling."

• 

  Shelby Oertel | A Passion for Adult Learning

  Sep 22, 2022 4:00 pm232 views

  "I have a passion for adult learning."

• 

  Lauren "Cal" Callahan | "We Teach Them and They Teach Us."

  Sep 15, 2022 4:00 pm87 views

  "We Teach Them and They Teach Us."

• 

  Amy Heinrichs | A Non-Traditional Journey To Finding Her Passion

  Sep 8, 2022 3:00 pm283 views

  "After working with children in many aspects I realized this was my passion and wanted to do."

• 

  Jerny Walls | Interested in How Disparities Impact the Lives of Students and Teachers

  May 2, 2022 3:00 pm144 views

  "I love how supportive my classmates are, they really have helped me stay motivated during my college career."

• 

  Jaclyn Wittrock | Helping All Young Minds Grow

  Apr 12, 2022 3:00 pm73 views

  "I love learning how young minds develop and better ways to teach every kind of learner!"

• 

  Kenna Ashton | Inspired to Have a Positive Impact on Students

  Apr 5, 2022 3:00 pm49 views

  "I love how close the College of Education is and how much support is provided for students."

• 

  Ivy Moore | Engaged In Her Community

  Feb 3, 2022 3:00 pm76 views

  "What I love about campus is that there is always something new to try."

• 

  Yudany Diaz | Everyone is Worthy of a Good Education

  Jan 26, 2022 3:00 pm77 views

  Yudany is a freshman in the College's Secondary Education minor program. Her major is History, and she's also double-minoring in Spanish. But Yudany's end goal is a becoming a school administrator, where she can affect change and progress on educational systems and help all students feel safe and be supported. 

• 

  Alexis Frieman | Nothin' But Love for Education

  Jan 18, 2022 3:00 pm471 views

  When asked about what she enjoys most about the College of Education, Alexis' reply: the building, the courses, the people, what's not to love?!

• 

  Ian Copple | Loving the 'ah-ha!' Moments

  Dec 1, 2021 3:00 pm114 views

  When Ian Copple came to the University of Illinois, he knew he loved math. It took until his junior year to realize he also loved sharing his understanding with others. That's when he transferred into the Secondary Education minor program.

• 

  Allie Gilbert | Realizing Her Passion for Equitable Education

  Nov 9, 2021 3:00 pm143 views

  Senior Allie Gilbert has truly made the most of her student experience while at Illinois. From her involvement in Epsilon Delta and Student Alumni Ambassadors to doing a pandemic-shortened study abroad semester in Spain, she's explored many opportunities to learn where her true passions lie. Now, she waits to hear back about her Fulbright Scholarship application—staying true to continuing to learn about herself, the world, and how to provide equitable education to her future students.

• 

  Erin Dickett | Valuing Students' Unfiltered Cultural Perspectives

  Nov 2, 2021 9:00 am135 views

  Middle school can be tough, but Erin Dickett says the College's new IGlobal Program helps students connect with each other around the globe. Which is inspiring for everyone.

• 

  Kay Tetlak | Connecting Students to Their Community

  Oct 28, 2021 9:00 am52 views

  As a Chicago Public Schools alum, Kay Tetlak wants to give back to the school district that provided so many resources to her.

• 

  Ana Garcia | Teaching to Fulfill Part of Her Purpose

  Sep 29, 2021 3:00 pm122 views

  Ana Garcia is a Chicago native who knows that teaching young children and serving in a low-income community is part of her life's purpose.

• 

  Kerrigan Lane | Having Fun is Crucial to Learning

  Sep 21, 2021 3:00 pm81 views

  Kerrigan is a freshman in the College's Early Childhood Education program. She's loved her own "classroom life" experience and the fun of learning in community. Kerrigan can't wait to creating a welcoming, inclusive, positive classroom environment for all her future students to grow.

• 

  Lily Greenberg | Advocating for Marginalized Students

  Sep 16, 2021 3:00 pm82 views

  Meet Lily Greenberg, an Elementary Education major who feels strongly that kids of all different backgrounds deserve a teacher who they feel represents them.

• 

  Danté Studamire | Here to Support First-year Students

  Sep 8, 2021 3:00 pm155 views

  Danté Studamire knows the value of sounding boards in life. In his relatively short time here at Illinois, he can already point to a handful of mentors and faculty who are helping shape his goals, vision, and future academic pursuits. (Not to mention his Ph.D. dissertation!) This year, the Office of Minority Student Affairs has appointed Danté to serve as a mentor to College of Education first-year students who are finding their way. He's part of the College's academic advising team, and is excited to meet Education students and learn about their ideas and passions.

• 

  Julie Ross | Passionate About the Next Generation of Learners

  Aug 30, 2021 3:00 pm280 views

  As the 2021-2022 school year kicks off, we introduce you to Julie Ross who is thrilled to be back on this bustling campus this fall! She's even more excited to one day lead her own classroom of crazy busy middle school students. Learn more about why Julie loves Education at Illinois!

• 

  Xochitl Mondragon | Reflection and Gratitude

  May 6, 2021 3:00 pm149 views

  As the school year comes to a close, we reflect on our growth and look to the future. Elementary Education senior Xochitl Mondragon is taking this time of reflection to show her gratitude to the educators that got her where she is today. From formative years spent with outstanding grade school teachers, to the inspirational difference teachers made on her young niece, to the guidance and "pure heart" of professors in the College of Education, this Teacher Appreciation Week (and every week) we celebrate teachers. Now, as Xochtil says her goodbyes to Illinois, she prepares to join the ranks of impactful educators everywhere.

• 

  David McCormack | "Everyone Has Dignity"

  Apr 29, 2021 3:00 pm197 views

  Senior David McCormack has enjoyed his time on campus with involvement in Best Buddies, the Newman Center, and intramural sports. Most of all, he cherishes his experiences in his chosen field of Special Education. He recalls the beginnings of his affinity for special education back in high school, "I decided that I'd want to follow this passion and start to devote my life to it." Now, David is looking forward to starting his professional career as a Special Educator in a classroom of his own at Lincoln Jr. High this fall.

• 

  Sharon Stagaman | Finding Her Niche

  Apr 22, 2021 3:00 pm126 views

  Graduation is just around the corner for Elementary English and Spanish major Sharon Stagaman. Since watching her father become an educator in her childhood, Sharon knew she wanted to follow in his footsteps one day. But carving your own path is no small task, and Sharon credits finding her niche in the education field to the diverse learning experiences at the College of Education. "I feel really prepared to graduate with experiences at different types of schools across grade levels, and I feel so lucky that these experiences started junior year to help me solidify that teaching is what I want to do."

• 

  Kapri Dowdell | Advocate and Inspire

  Apr 15, 2021 3:00 pm157 views

  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 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."

• 

  Lesly Ortega | "Teaching is the only path for me"

  Apr 1, 2021 3:00 pm66 views

  Junior Lesly Ortega feels that the path to teaching is the only one for her, and has felt this way since childhood. As an English major and Secondary Education minor, Lesly has enjoyed her courses in and out of the College of Education, and looks forward to returning to her high school as an English teacher as soon as possible. When she's not in class or studying, Lesly enjoys checking out the local restaurants and greeting her peer's pets on the quad.

• 

  Erin Molay | Ready To Explore

  Mar 24, 2021 3:00 pm219 views

  Erin Molay is determined to give her future students the most authentic and enriching experience a classroom can offer. That's why after she has completed her studies as an Elementary Education major and Psychology minor, Erin plans to travel the world and explore the cultures and communities abroad. When asked about her time with the College of Education, Erin said, "I love the close-knit community atmosphere!"

• 

  Sara Striepling | Community, Opportunity, and Balance

  Mar 4, 2021 3:00 pm116 views

  Whether it's growing alongside her peers in her cohort, ushering a show at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, patronizing local businesses, or exploring her passion of special education, Sophomore Sara Striepling values the community she has found in Champaign-Urbana. Most of all, she appreciates the balanced life as a College of Education student, remarking "It's great to have the opportunities and experiences that come with going to a large university while still having small and personal classes." 

• 

  Madison Barrera | "Always Demonstrate Care"

  Feb 25, 2021 3:00 pm112 views

  Ever since she saw the increasing need for special education teachers firsthand in her Chicago high school, sophomore Madison Barrera has been a strong advocate for inclusivity in the education system. Through her studies as a Special Education major and Speech Language Pathology minor, Madison is practicing the belief that educators have the power to make lasting positive impacts on every student. She says, "Our job is to keep all of our students in our minds with every decision and always demonstrate care for our students’ success."

• 

  Emily Manzo | "Thrive in Your Chosen Path"

  Feb 18, 2021 3:00 pm151 views

  Halfway through her junior year, Emily Manzo has already taught and studied abroad in Costa Rica, conducted research under three professors, and led discussions in EDUC 101, all while working toward her degree in Learning and Education Studies-Educational Equality Cultural Understanding, and minoring in Spanish and Latinx Studies. Having savored all of these experiences and more, Emily misses her time with friends at La Casa Cultural the most from her pre-pandemic days on campus.

• 

  Gwen Cox | Fueling the Next Generation

  Feb 11, 2021 3:00 pm89 views

  It's easier than ever for our vision to be fogged when thinking about future plans in a time of such unpredictability. Freshman Gwen Cox understands that the importance of education is one constant she can count on. "The next generation of students have a big impact on our future, and to have to opportunity to fuel them to have big goals and inspire them to keep learning would be an amazing experience," she says.

• 

  Abby Dizon | Determined to Inspire

  Feb 4, 2021 3:00 pm86 views

  Senior Abby Dizon misses the warm, positive energy of the College of Education building most of all in these strange times. The positivity from her peers and instructors of present, all the way back to Kindergarten, have influenced her personally and professionally. When asked about her aspirations to teach in Chicago Public Schools as a Golden Apple Scholar, she replied, "I am determined to inspire students and provide them with a reason to be their best self every single day."

• 

  Genesis Rivera | "The Key To Our Liberation"

  Jan 28, 2021 3:00 pm221 views

  Freshman Genesis Rivera experienced her formative years at a low-income Black and Brown elementary school in Chicago. From a young age, she noticed her peers lose their passion for education after experiencing the traumas of family and friends falling victim to gun violence and incarceration. Genesis is determined to break this vicious cycle with the best tool she knows — teaching. "I want to be able to tell my students that education and knowledge is powerful." She says, "It’s the key to our liberation and will help us give back to our communities. My students will not be another statistic."

• 

  Rayna Zirkelbach | The Road Worth Taking

  Dec 10, 2020 3:00 pm45 views

  Transferring to a new school can be challenging, but for Rayna, the warm environment of the University of Illinois made the transition an easy one. Once Rayna was welcomed with open arms to campus, she soon found her place in the College of Education, but not how you might think. When asked about her decision to become an educator, she replied, "I didn’t know for a long time. On a whim I got a job at a daycare, and this is where I fell in love with education. I knew I wanted to do this as my career." Rayna's story is a great example that you don't have to have it all figured out right away. Sometimes the longer road is the one worth taking! 

• 

  Lucille Luan | Miles Away, Always at Home

  Dec 3, 2020 3:00 pm208 views

  Senior Lucille Luan traveled far from her family in Cupertino, California to pursue an education at Illinois, but she's always at home with the College of Education. Lucille comes from a family of educators, and says "I was naturally drawn to the idea of becoming a teacher since my early exposure to family members who were teachers! My grandma, my dad, and my previous professors and teachers are all strong influences."

• 

  Shelby Oertel | Goodbye, Comfort Zone

  Nov 19, 2020 3:00 pm160 views

  Freshman Shelby Oertel is stepping out of her comfort zone and into opportunity this year! There's a lot to take in at Illinois, and that's precisely why she's here. Shelby is looking forward to Illini basketball seasons and all the new friendships to come in the four years ahead of her. Most of all, Shelby is looking forward to gaining "The best perspective to further my professional development and allow me to help shift the workplace dynamic" through the College of Education.

• 

  Jacalyn Wingerter | Inspired by Educators

  Nov 12, 2020 3:00 pm63 views

  Everyone has a special educator that has inspired them in some way. Senior Jacalyn Wingerter draws inspiration from her English professor, Professor Pollock. She says, "He's the most enthusiastic English professor and really knows how to make any type of literature come to life!" Jacalyn hopes to bring the same enthusiasm to an English classroom of her own after graduating. This week, tell an educator in your life how they inspire you!

   

• 

  Aranza Rico | Kindness Counts

  Nov 5, 2020 3:00 pm79 views

  Junior Aranza Rico is feeling the love from the College of Education family. These days are hard for us all, and kindness can go a long way. Aranza says the staff is "Very helpful and friendly. They care about students' mental health, especially during these times." The university has a number of mental health opportunities and resources available to those in need.