Meet the 2026-2027 Education Peer Ambassadors
The Education Peer Ambassador Program is a unique leadership opportunity for students of undergraduate teacher education programs at Appalachian State University. In their role, they support fellow students by working at the front desk in the James Center for Student Success and Advising, as well as serving as hosts to prospective students and guests of the Reich College of Education. They assist at all of our recruitment events and provide building tours to prospective students, donors, and faculty candidates.
This academic year, there are 19 Education Peer Ambassadors. Each ambassador brings their own perspective as a student to the program. The James Center looks for a variety of education majors to provide a well-rounded group of ambassadors. Meet all of the ambassadors and learn why they chose to attend App State, what or who inspired them to become an educator, and why they wanted to be an ambassador for the Reich College of Education.
Fall Open House is Saturday, October 17 on the Boone campus and Saturday, October 24 on the Hickory campus. Attend a FIRST Thursday info session this spring. Not able to make these dates? Learn more about scheduling a tour.
Questions? Please contact Lindsay Cotten Cybulski for more information.
Meet the Education Peer Ambassadors
Meet Samantha Booher, Special Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My old teacher, Ms. Temeka, was my biggest inspiration. She taught me what a good teacher means and gave me confidence to pursue teaching myself.
Why App State?
I was always aware of how structured the teaching program at App State is. I knew that the dedicated professors and field experience opportunities would best prepare me for my career.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I chose to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I wanted to become involved in the Reich College of Education.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
My best advice for incoming first-year or transfer students is to build strong relationships with your professors.
What are your plans after graduation?
I hope to teach in a self-contained classroom in public schools.
Meet Lola Cahoe, Theatre Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I was originally inspired to pursue a career in education by the first year of high school theatre class. I had finally found something that clicked with me and that I was passionate about. The desire to teach this thing honestly just followed naturally; I think it was maybe something I had always known I wanted to do. The longer I am at App State, the more I think of all the ways I can take this knowledge I have gained and use it in and outside of classrooms to get more young people interested in the theatre arts and give that access to students who are already interested.
Why App State?
The methods courses that are offered, especially the ones for the arts classes, and getting to be in a classroom that is specifically teaching theatre has really strengthened my confidence in my teaching.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to help people. I think the James Center is one of the best resources on this campus, but I understand that for some people it could be a bit daunting to learn about it on their own.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Talk to people, go to the James Center, and go to club meetings! Whether everything ends up being a perfect match for you or not is not what matters, but rather what can you learn to take from all those things to make a space for yourself in this college. You cannot carve that space out for yourself without taking risks.
What are your plans after graduation?
Going into college, I wanted to teach in a high school classroom; now I am thinking about switching my focus to educational theatre out in communities. But who is to say? I am always thinking of new ways to spread what I love!
Meet Sophie Dixon, History/Social Studies Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I was inspired, like so many, to pursue a career in education by my previous teachers from middle and high school. My inspiration has evolved during my time at App State because I have been able to see that I have what it takes to be not only the best version of myself but the best teacher for the future generation of students.
Why App State?
App State has been the right place for me since I accepted my admission offer to the school. App State has been able to foster and support not only my love of history education but also show me how to be a well-rounded human being in my studies. Through App State and the ACES program, I have been able to spend numerous hours in the classroom, experience one-on-one instruction, and visit different districts to see where I may fit best in the future. I don't think I would be nearly as prepared as I am right now if not for App State.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I chose to become an EPA because I wanted to be able to support and help students who are just like me. Being a history ed major, I am able to bring in a different perspective to the James Center and provide information that may not be common knowledge to my fellow EPAs. I think I am able to build a supportive community within the RCOE by just showing up and letting others know that I am there for them and happy to help wherever I can.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
My biggest piece of advice would be don't be afraid to ask questions, use all of your resources, and get involved with as many clubs and organizations as possible. The College of Ed and the James Center will be your backbone throughout your time at App State!
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan on pursuing my master's degree in history with a concentration in education. My ultimate goal is to become a college professor working between the education and history departments. I would first like to pay my dues in the high school classroom teaching history so that I can give back to the school system that gave so much to me.
Meet Luis Galvan, History/Social Studies Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
Throughout high school, I took numerous courses with phenomenal teachers who showcased passion for their respective subjects. Their love for subjects such as history and science made it easy for them to create fun and engaging learning experiences with their diverse curricula. My high school teachers also emphasized the importance of being there for students by providing resources and support, as one of their responsibilities was to help them succeed. My great experience in high school inspired me to pursue a career in education.
Additionally, my time at App State reinforced my interest in becoming a teacher through its catalogue of insightful courses that explore various concepts, ideas, and perspectives to create future educators.
Why App State?
App State offers various outlets for future educators to become more skilled, knowledgeable, and successful. One example that comes to mind is their variety of professional development (PD) opportunities offered throughout the year. These PDs are workshops and events that feature guest speakers and experiences that emphasize various concepts, ideas, and perspectives that allow students to grow as educators. A few I have attended in the past include classroom management, incorporation of various perspectives within history courses, and tips on lesson planning. These opportunities reinforce my belief that App State is the right place for students to grow as future educators.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
A core part of being an Education Peer Ambassador (EPA) is participating in Reich College of Education events, such as Open House events. Before becoming an EPA, I was frequently involved in Open House events on behalf of the Appalachian Educators Club to help create a welcoming environment for students and families interested in App State’s education programs and resources. It was an incredible experience, as I had the opportunity to interact with many people who wanted to become involved in education. After volunteering on a panel centered on campus life, I was offered the opportunity to become an EPA and accepted. As an EPA, I help build a supportive community within Reich College of Education by offering information and resources to education majors while representing the college.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
I always encourage students who are new to App State to step out of their comfort zone and participate in events and activities. The Reich College of Education frequently offers professional development opportunities and events that allow students to network with one another. There are various education-based clubs that can be found on Engage. Clubs are a great way to meet other students and become involved in the community.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I intend to teach history and social studies at a high school level, such as American history and civics, while staying in Western North Carolina. I have lived in the mountains for the majority of my life, and I have grown to appreciate the area more and more. I would like to teach for a couple of years and then pursue another education degree. I hope to strengthen schools and communities by teaching students the value of history through the incorporation of diverse perspectives and voices that have contributed to our current understanding of the present. While emphasizing the building and practice of essential skills such as critical thinking, analysis, writing, and reading comprehension. These skills can help students understand the impact and importance of history.
Meet Ella Gleason, History/Social Studies Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My desire to become a teacher grew from a love of history as a kid into a love of the public education system as I reached the end of my K-12 years. I had such amazing teachers throughout my years in school that affirmed my love for learning and made it stronger. I know that I was extremely lucky with my public education, and I want to give back to the system because every child is entitled to a good-quality public education. I want to use my classroom to shape my students into lovers of learning and people who will use that love to fight for change and shape the future of our world.
Why App State?
I chose App because of how much emphasis they place on the education program. Coming into college with a community right off the bat helped me so much with that transition. Also, the history education program here is much different than other schools. I am basically getting a history degree, but I have specific education classes as well, so I can graduate with the resources needed to get my teaching license. The way that the history education program operates here was the most favorable to me and my goals, and I believe that it is setting me up for success the most.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I became an Education Peer Ambassador because I thrive when I am helping people. Whether that is through Open House, information sessions, or simply helping people with printing in the James Center, I feel like I am at my best.
I also wanted to get more involved with RCOE, and becoming an EPA has allowed me to better understand all of the programs and helpful resources available to me as an education major. I help build a supportive community within RCOE by being a safe place for students to come with any questions or concerns. It can be intimidating to speak with advisors, especially when you're first starting out, and some people may feel better with people their own age. I try my best to make sure that everyone who leaves the James Center has had a good experience with me, whether it's me helping them with a question or just having a good conversation with them.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Do not take the convenience of living on campus for granted when it comes to getting your PD hours. It's better to knock out as many as possible in your first year while you're still on campus because once you're not, it's a lot harder to make it to PD events. Go to as many as you can. The James Center ones are always good, as are the IMC PD events. You will thank yourself when you're not scrambling to get your required PD hours while also juggling your last classes before student teaching, and for many, living off campus. Additionally, if you go to them during your first year at App State, you will be able to meet other education majors and make deep connections with them.
What are your plans after graduation?
I want to work in the NC public education system because it did so much good for me, and I want other people to experience that as well. I know that there are many areas where the system falls short, and while there is not much that I can personally do about that, I can turn my students into curious, civically engaged citizens who want to better their communities. I want to encourage my students to be the ones to speak up and advocate for change.
Meet Gwendolyn Griffin, Middle Grades Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My teachers back home inspired me to be the person I am today and to pursue a career in the same life-changing profession.
Why App State?
App State is THE first in teacher education. Learning and leading here has left a lasting impact on who I am as a person!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to help support others going into the same profession as me. I love being able to give someone the answer they are searching for or just be a listening ear at the right time!
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Buy in! You get out of this degree what you put into it!
What are your plans after graduation?
Become a math teacher in a middle school back home!
Meet Sadie Hansen, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
At first, I never thought of pursuing a career in education until a teacher saw my potential! As an intended nursing major, she saw my love for working with kids and told me I would always have a job with her when I graduate! Once I knew nursing wasn't for me, I knew education was the path for me!
Why App State?
The moment I stepped on campus, App State felt like home!! The community on campus is unmatched and uplifts one another each and every day! I could not be more appreciative of the amazing program App State has and how it has shaped me to be a better teacher! From the amazing field experiences to class lectures, App State builds the next generation of teachers who will impact so many future students!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I chose to become an EPA to be a support system for other education majors! Our major has so many components, and I never want confusion or a lack of support to be the reason someone does not pursue a career in education! One way I help build a supportive community within the RCOE is by being a listening ear who is available to help! I love helping people see the positives, find solutions, and feel loved!
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Do not let anyone steal your sparkle for education! Many people will tell you "bless your heart" or "are you sure?" but I can guarantee that this is the best career you could pursue! Remember why you want to pursue education and keep that as your focus as you get involved in the College of Education.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I will get married to my fiancé and become a teacher in Watauga County while completing my master's online! As a first-year teacher, I hope to improve educational systems by first building relationships. I want to be a marigold at my school so that I am able to then create change and advocate for what is best!
Meet Amelia Hicks, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
Growing up, I always loved working with kids. Throughout early high school, I started thinking more and more about what I wanted to do with my life, and I kept coming back to becoming a teacher. I am a very indecisive person, but one thing that felt certain was becoming a teacher. My inspiration coming into App State was to be a positive, supportive teacher who advocates for her students. I realized I wanted to see the lightbulb moment when students learned something while also teaching beyond the content and teaching social skills, personal life skills, and much more. Since starting my time at App State, my initial inspiration has been reinforced while also growing. During my first practicum sophomore year, I realized I had a passion for being in a special education classroom. I decided to get a minor in it and am also part of the accelerated master's program. I know that students need individualized learning, and App State has inspired me to provide that.
Why App State?
When choosing a college, App State stood out. I could see posters, ideas, and opportunities where students learned, shared ideas, and were seen. App State has opportunities other schools do not, such as ACES, Teaching Fellows, APP Ed club, and more, and I knew I wanted to find a community in one of the educational organizations and groups, which I have done. The professors at App State within the RCOE are supportive and really want us to become future educators who shine. I knew App State was the place I would grow as a student, person, and most importantly, an educator.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
My first visit to App State was during the Spring of my junior year. I remember that after the typical school tour, my dad insisted we investigate the College of Education and see if anyone could provide more info. Upon entering the College of Education, we stumbled upon the James Center where an EPA was working. I remember the EPA was kind, supportive, informative, and really gave their all in answering questions and providing information. I learned about ACES, the elementary education program, and more. The EPA that day was more than a student at a desk; they were the person who sold me on App State and the elementary education program. Following that day, no college compared, and my heart was set. I became an EPA to be that same figure to current App State students, future App State students, and every person who enters the James Center.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
RESOURCES, RESOURCES, RESOURCES! The College of Education has so many resources; use them. Compared to other majors, we have the place with free printing, a place filled with science and math supplies, a whole mini library within our building, and my favorite free coffee in the James Center. These resources are meant to be utilized, and the people connected to each resource are there to help. Definitely using them is my advice.
What are your plans after graduation?
Following graduation, I will have one year left of my master's in special education. I plan on finishing my master's while I also have my first teaching job while staying in Boone. I hope to teach for a while before going back to school someday for an administration degree.
Meet Laney Hodge, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My mom, who is a music teacher, is what inspired me to pursue a career in education. During high school, I had the opportunity to volunteer at her school and observe her teaching. Being in the classroom and seeing the impact she had on her students made me fall in love with education and realize that this was the career I wanted to pursue.
Throughout my time at App State, that passion for education has only continued to grow. Through internships, networking opportunities, clubs, and other experiences, I have gained a deeper understanding of what it means to be an educator. These experiences have helped me grow both personally and professionally and have made me even more excited to enter the field. I am grateful for the opportunities App State has given me to learn, connect with others, and prepare for my future career. Most importantly, my time at App State has strengthened my desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my future students.
Why App State?
App State felt like the right place for me to grow as a future educator and leader because of both its strong reputation in education and my personal connection to the university. Both of my parents attended App State, so I grew up visiting Boone for football games, exploring campus, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Over the years, I fell in love with the campus and the community and knew that App State was where I wanted to continue my education.
Many educators and leaders in my county also recommended App State as a place where I could reach my full potential and grow into the educator I aspire to be. Since coming to App State, the education program has exceeded my expectations and provided me with countless opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with others.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I chose to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I wanted to support and connect with both current and prospective students in the Teacher Education program at Appalachian State University. When I first arrived at App State, I quickly fell in love with the program, largely because of the students involved, especially the Peer Ambassadors who made me feel welcomed and inspired. I want to provide that same encouragement and leadership to others as they begin their own journeys. I aim to help build a supportive community within RCOE by welcoming students into the James Center, connecting with students at events, and answering any questions I can! I am always here to help and talk with anyone!
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
My top piece of advice for incoming first-year or transfer students would be to get involved early by connecting with faculty, professors, and other students in the Reich College of Education. I would encourage students to join education-related clubs, attend events, and take advantage of the many resources and support systems RCOE has to offer. The professors and faculty are amazing and are always willing to help, so don’t be afraid to ask questions or reach out when you need guidance. Getting involved and building connections early can help you feel more comfortable in the program and make your experience at App State even more meaningful!
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to return to Burke County to teach third or fourth grade. I want to give back to the community that has played such a significant role in my life and helped shape who I am today. As a teacher, I hope to create a positive and welcoming classroom where every student feels supported, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential. I want to make a lasting impact on each student who enters my classroom while also building strong relationships with families and the community. By bringing my passion, dedication, and experiences back to Burke County, I hope to contribute to a stronger educational system and help create meaningful opportunities for future generations of students across North Carolina.
Meet Keira Howald, Instrumental Music Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My inspiration to pursue Music Education came from my own experiences in band. Being in band throughout middle school and high school impacted the person I am today in so many ways beyond music. Having the opportunity to do the same for my future students is something I feel called to pursue.
Going into music education, I was very nervous about the rigor of the college program and the demands of being a band director. I certainly cannot say my time at Appalachian State has been easy, but it has challenged me in the best way possible and taught me that I am capable of being the band director I want to be for my students. My wonderful professors teach me the importance of a music education, and I am more excited than ever to graduate this spring and become a band director.
Why App State?
The opportunities offered through both the Reich College of Education and Hayes School of Music are incredible. When I met my flute professor, she immediately shared the many opportunities she envisioned for me, from ensembles to leadership positions. She understood my goals for the future and could see the potential in what I could accomplish at Appalachian, which made it an especially exciting place for me to grow.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I chose to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I wanted to ensure that Music Education was represented within RCOE. Throughout my time as an Education Ambassador, I have been able to inform a lot of my peers in Music Education about the things that RCOE has to offer, as well as help them with things such as their Professional Development Passport.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
I would recommend getting involved in things outside of Education! Stepping outside of your major can help you grow in ways that you may not realize you need, while also giving you the opportunity to form relationships that can shape your college experience and career.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I would ideally love to become a middle school band director, but I am open to and excited about whichever music education opportunities come my way! I hope to become an advocate for the importance and accessibility of music education for every student. Music provides students with opportunities to build confidence and discipline while expressing themselves creatively, yet it can sometimes be treated as less essential than other subjects. I want to help others recognize how essential music is to a well-rounded education.
Meet Sammy Krutisia, History/Social Studies Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
Ever since I was a kid, I have always been interested in the field of history. That has evolved over time from Ancient Egypt to U.S. history, and now sports history. Starting in middle school, I started to think about history as a career, and luckily I had a lot of great teachers who inspired me to go into education. Since I arrived at App State, my passion for education has grown more as I take more classes on a variety of topics.
Why App State?
My first exposure to App State was a great student teacher that I had in my AP United States History class in 10th grade. The way that she carried herself and taught lessons to us made me interested in the History Education Program at App State. Once I set foot on campus for Open House, I knew that this place was right for me. Meeting with Dr. Rwany Sibaja and the RCOE staff solidified my choice to enroll here at App.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I have always enjoyed volunteering in the RCOE at events like open house. I was approached by Donna Starks to join the EPA team after an Open House event, and I applied after that. Building a supportive community in the RCOE is very important, and being an EPA gives me the best chance possible to do that. Helping my peers figure out registration, classes, and printing helps me know that I'm doing my part to support all students in the RCOE.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Meet new people and get out of your comfort zone! Go to club events that not only relate to your major but also your interests and hobbies.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be returning to Wake County to work in the public school system there. While teaching, I will continue to advocate for my students, coworkers, and myself.
Meet Ada Maude, Special Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I was inspired by my Teacher Cadet Coordinator, Mr. Shelton, to pursue education when he let me teach in his classroom. Seeing more and more classroom environments, especially geared more towards my major, I have fallen in love with the profession.
Why App State?
I saw how welcoming the community felt and wanted to become a part of it and eventually a leader. I want to be like those who welcomed me into the College of Education and help them along their college journeys as well.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I became an EPA because, honestly, I love to help others. Knowing I could make even a small impact on someone's day by being a smiling face really encouraged me to pursue the role.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
The best advice I can give is to really put yourself out there! Try new things! If you have the opportunity to tack on a minor, go for it! It will really impact your knowledge of education as well as allow you to be more versatile in your field.
What are your plans after graduation?
I hope to teach down by the coast and eventually become a principal. I want to advocate for Special Education funding allocation in school districts as well as be a leader for educators at the school I am placed at.
Meet Kayla Monroe, Middle Grades Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My previous teachers had such a passion for what they taught, and I wanted to be like them. I want to create a positive impact on students' lives, just like my previous teachers did for me. Through my time at App State, this passion for education has grown, and the more classes I take and the more time I'm out in the field, my love for education as a whole continues to evolve, and it has turned into something even more amazing than I could have imagined.
Why App State?
App State felt like home from the very moment I stepped on campus. The people, the professors, the scenery, everything that makes Boone what it is. I knew that in coming here, I would not only grow as an educator, but as a person. I knew that the opportunities offered here were going to challenge me and push me to be better, and there is no better place to be challenged than in a group of like-minded individuals all wanting the same goal - to make a positive impact on our students.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I chose to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I knew that it would be an amazing opportunity. I knew every time I came into the James Center, there was someone there who could help me, and I wanted to be that person for someone else. I love getting to know the people who stop by, and getting to create those connections with everyone who comes in the door. RCOE is a community of people who want to better our future generations, and getting to be a part of this larger whole is something I will always cherish.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Talk to people and be willing to push yourself outside of your comfort zone! Everyone is so nice and willing to help you, and connecting with a group of people you enjoy being around can make the hard days so much easier!
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to go back to my hometown to teach in the classroom for a few years. I also want to come back to school to get my master's degree in Library Science. Literacy and being able to create a love for reading in my students is something that I care deeply about. People can see themselves in books, and showing students in the middle grades that you are not alone is incredibly powerful.
Meet Julie Nelson, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
Back home, I coach for my local swim team. Spending time with the kids on the team and watching them learn and grow inspired me to pursue a career in education. Throughout my time at App State, my love for teaching children has grown stronger through my experiences in and out of the classroom.
Why App State?
I knew that App State was the perfect place for me to learn and grow as a future educator. My professors, advisors, and classmates have all made this the best possible experience.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I chose to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I love to help people. Our goal is to make all students in the College of Ed feel welcome and supported.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
My top piece of advice for incoming first-year or transfer students is to put yourself out there, and don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Moving to a new place can be scary, but App State has so many wonderful communities and programs that are designed to help you meet new people and feel supported.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to work in a public elementary school in North Carolina. I hope that as a future educator, I am able to work with my fellow teachers to build a strong and supportive educational system.
Meet Emma Patrie, Art Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I chose to pursue a degree in art education because of the impact my art teachers had on me! I love the idea of inspiring and guiding a new generation of students through their education, and I have an ever-growing passion for art and its influence due to my time at App State!
Why App State?
App State has a wonderful education program. I knew that coming here would prepare me for a successful career as an educator and provide me with all the resources I need.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I chose to become an EPA because I wanted to learn more about my program and the resources available to me, as well as become a vital part of other pre-service educators' learning experience.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Don't be afraid to ask questions! Step out of your comfort zone, try something new, engage with the community and your peers! You won't know what adventures could await you unless you try!
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to move back home and teach locally as a middle grades art educator! I hope to grow the art program within the school I am teaching at, and create a strong community be†ween my school and the locals!
Meet Jackson Piermont, History/Social Studies Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I was always passionate about learning history and thought that education was a great field to carry that zeal into. During my time in school, I have developed a feeling of responsibility towards the history I intend to teach, and this conviction drives me forward.
Why App State?
The cold weather!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I chose to become an EPA because I thought that furthering the mission of the position aligned with my beliefs, and also because I wanted to keep paying forward the help that EPAs had given me in the past.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Make sure to take time to find out about all of the resources available to you within the College of Education. These resources come in many different forms too — experts, free printing, support systems, advising assistance, and so much more! The RCOE wants you to succeed.
What are your plans after graduation?
I intend to pursue a master’s degree, likely in Public Policy, Public Health, or Library/Information Services.
Hailey Ricard, Child Development: Birth-Kindergarten
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I chose to pursue a career in education because of my experiences working with elementary school-aged children at a Science camp, and later my experiences working in a preschool. During my time at App State, I discovered the Reggio Emilia approach and fell in love with the Early Childhood Education field. Through mentorship from various educators, I felt inspired to switch from Elementary Education to Child Development in order to help more children get the quality care and learning they deserve to foster a love for learning and growth.
Why App State?
The mentorship, empathy, and support from educators and professors have helped me learn the skills I needed to feel that I could make a difference and pursue advocacy as well as teaching. The community here is welcoming and supportive, and also filled with opportunities to try new things. My leadership skills have grown through diverse experiences at App State, such as holding club executive positions, event planning, peer education programs, and so much more. Above all, the practicum hours have given me so many rich experiences in the classroom that I know will support me as a future teacher.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I chose to become an EPA because I love connecting with other people and finding ways for them to be successful. I also know from personal experience that not everyone’s path to their degree is the same. I enjoy being able to relate with others and reassuring them that it’s ok to switch to another major because I did that twice to find the field I wanted to work in.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
You don’t know what you don’t know, so embrace new ideas and experiences.
What are your plans after graduation?
Upon graduation, I want to move somewhere I can work for a few years at a childcare center and also find advocacy work as well. Particularly, I’m interested in finding ways to help families get the resources and information they need to support their child’s development. I’m not sure where I want to move yet, but the beach sounds like fun!
Meet Linsie Smith, English secondary education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My high school English teacher inspired me to want to become one myself. She was such a big influence on who I am and showed me the important impact that high school educators can have on students. My inspiration has evolved from witnessing the impact as a student to witnessing it as a future teacher. I get to see myself build these relationships and have an impact on students, and have them also continuously inspire me to keep pursuing this career.
Why App State?
I chose App State because it is close to home and a great school for education. I knew that growing up in Appalachia, my experiences with education are very different and unique, and I knew that App State recognized that and is connected with other Appalachian schools to really highlight that experience.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I chose to become an Education Peer Ambassador because it is a great job for a full-time student. I knew that they would work with my demanding school schedule and prioritize my education. I also wanted to work in the RCOE because I wanted to make more connections within the College of Education. As someone who is not housed in the College of Education, it can be hard to meet other educators and even make professional connections. I knew that integrating myself through being an EPA would make it possible to build those connections.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
My biggest piece of advice is to join education-based clubs. It is such a great way to find what form of education, whether it be secondary, elementary, or special areas, that suits you the best. This also helps you find a community within your college and future career. Finding that community is so beneficial to having a successful and fun college experience.
What are your plans after graduation?
My plans after graduation are to hopefully teach at a local Appalachian high school and continue to improve literacy in Appalachia and encourage a passion for reading among my students. I hope to find ways to really dive straight into raising literacy rates in Appalachia. I grew up here, and it is so important to me that I find a way to give back by doing what I love. I want to see students find a love of reading that then becomes them finding a way to tell their own story and representing our home in a positive way.
Meet Lauren Tomes, Middle Grades Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I have always wanted to be a teacher because of the way it felt when I was able to help a friend figure something out or discover something new. This inspiration has evolved significantly in my time at App State because we are given so many opportunities to interact with new people and learn new things. So, not only am I helping other people discover something new, but they're helping me too.
Why App State?
The ACES and NC Teaching Fellows communities have given me ample opportunities to grow as both a person and an educator. Learning more about these programs and becoming more involved with them confirmed for me that App State is the right place for me.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I became an Education Peer Ambassador to become more involved within RCOE. I had friends who shared that being an EPA made them feel much more connected to those in RCOE and gave them the knowledge to help those who may not come into the James Center every day or who get overwhelmed during their first semester. I make sure that I am always friendly to everyone walking through the doors and that they have access to everything they need to be successful.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Look into the clubs! It's said so often for a reason; there is no easier way to find people you click with than to join a club of like-minded people or volunteer with those who are passionate about the same things.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to teach in a public middle school for a solid amount of time, and then from there go back to school for my master's so I can go into administration and help solve any issues that came up while I was in the classroom. I want to gain the experience needed and then make those same experiences better for future teachers.