SPOTLIGHT: JUNE 2023  

Patricia (2023)

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

“Si se puede! - It is a saying we use in Mexico, which translates into “You can do it!’ Remember it when you have moments of self-doubt or you find yourself overwhelmed juggling school and life.”

PATRICIA, WHAT INSPIRED YOUR INTEREST IN EDUCATION?
Working with children and their families over the years inspired my interest in education. I found it truly rewarding to see the same children reach milestones upon milestones and witness the excitement it brought their families. However, I became more interested in education when my son started to attend pre-kindergarten at the elementary school where I first took a position as an instructional assistant. I thought, what better way to be involved in his educational journey while helping other children become successful learners. Even as a child, I had an interest in education. I used to play "school" with my siblings during the summers. We'd take turns "teaching" our class of three.

WHERE DID YOU WORK PRIOR TO THE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL?
Before taking a position at the elementary school, I worked at a child care development center serving families of different backgrounds. A lot of the skills I learned working as a child care provider helped me transition into elementary education, such as lesson planning, classroom management, and building positive relationships with children and their families. Everything else is critical to teaching elementary students, as I learned at SJR STATE.

WHY DID YOU SELECT SJR STATE FOR YOUR TRAINING?
SJR State was the only institution close to home, and I loved the idea of being part of a small cohort with outstanding professors. The tuition costs at SJR State were more affordable than any other institution I researched, and I looked into their foundation scholarships. Also, SJR State was highly recommended to me by my teacher friends when I was still an instructional assistant.

WHAT DID YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR TIME AT SJR STATE?
Class nights with my cohort and professors at SJR State were the best. I felt like I was within a family. We were all willing to help each other out with class work and provide support with our internships. I could comfortably ask my cohort or professors for support or feedback and receive it.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST THING YOU HAVE LEARNED ABOUT YOURSELF AS A STUDENT?
Self-motivation is a must! There were times I felt beyond exhausted, and self-doubt started to creep into my mind. Self-motivation helped me stay focused and on track to the finish line. As a student, I learned that much is possible as long as I believe in myself, even in the most challenging of times.

WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE DURING THE PROGRAM?
Traveling to campus outside of Putnam County was the most challenging part of the program for me, especially on nights my son had karate class or when I had to miss out on family or work-related events. Even more challenging was making it to and from class when I had car trouble. In the end, everything worked out, and I completed the program.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS AFTER YOU GRADUATE? This summer, I had the opportunity to teach a group of second graders. In the previous summers, I have worked as an instructional assistant in our summer programs. From now on, I have the opportunity to work in an instructional position. Next school year, I will be teaching 2nd grade Cambridge. I love this grade level. I feel confident that it will be a great year! I am not sure how many students I will have in my class, but I am already very familiar with many of our elementary students.

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO OTHERS WHO MAY BE CONSIDERING ENROLLING IN THIS PROGRAM? If you're still indecisive, I say take action now! Don't spend another minute putting your career goals to the side. I strongly suggest going to the college and getting answers to any questions you may have about the program. Start the process early on to avoid missing the enrollment deadline. Paperwork may take time to process.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS? I still see myself teaching elementary students and possibly working my way into a leadership or coaching role. I will continuously seek professional development as there is always room for learning.

INTERESTED IN THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION? Apply by August 1. For details, visit www.sjrstate.edu/bsearlychilded