Student Spotlight

Emily Crosswell | A Future Serving Students and Her Country

Sep 12, 2023 11:45 am117 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 am63 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 (left) and Meghan (right) McCurdy in Verona, Italy

Kate & Meghan McCurdy | Born to Teach

Apr 10, 2023 3:15 pm1 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 pm44 views

Anisa Chatman is a sophomore Learning and Education Studies major.

Cyrus Murray | Changing Lanes

Jan 31, 2023 2:30 pm54 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 pm335 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 pm95 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 pm229 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 pm226 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 pm79 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 pm88 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 pm120 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 pm116 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 pm201 views

"I have a passion for adult learning."

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

Sep 15, 2022 4:00 pm77 views

"We Teach Them and They Teach Us."

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

Sep 8, 2022 3:00 pm259 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 pm105 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 pm38 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 pm40 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 pm48 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 pm68 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 pm309 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 pm94 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 pm129 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 am108 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 am49 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 pm88 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 pm68 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 pm69 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 pm130 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 pm247 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 pm135 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 stands head to toe in Illini orange

David McCormack | "Everyone Has Dignity"

Apr 29, 2021 3:00 pm184 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 pm116 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 pm148 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 pm49 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 enjoys a summer afternoon on the water.

Erin Molay | Ready To Explore

Mar 24, 2021 3:00 pm196 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!"

Cara Merkle | Sharing The Love

Mar 11, 2021 3:00 pm332 views

For many middle schoolers, math and science are tricky, boring, and even loathed classes. But for freshman Cara Merkle, the two subjects are not only understood, but adored! Cara's affinity for math and science is so strong, she's dedicating herself to sharing that love and knowledge as a Middle Grades Math & Science Education major. While only in her freshman year, Cara already has her sights set on how her future classroom will motivate and inspire her students in the face of challenging subjects, "I'd really like to have a classroom that makes lessons more engaging and exciting so students can grow to love the subject!"

Sara poses next to a mural that reads "Great Minds Think Illinois"

Sara Striepling | Community, Opportunity, and Balance

Mar 4, 2021 3:00 pm112 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 pm107 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 pm141 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 pm80 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 pm72 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 pm207 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 pm42 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 pm172 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 pm56 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 pm73 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.

Grace McCoy| Just The Beginning

Oct 29, 2020 3:00 pm137 views

Freshman Grace McCoy is starting her college journey under unusual circumstances, but that's not stopping her ambition, optimism, and drive! Grace has always seen the value in education, and through the support of the College of Education community, she is pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. Grace says, "Any job in this profession would be rewarding and would keep me on my toes, so that I continue to feel that I am doing something worthwhile for my students."

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