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 22 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, November 8, on the Boone campus and Saturday, October 25, 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 Leigh Anna Marbert for more information.
Meet the Education Peer Ambassadors
Meet Ella Akers, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My family has a history of teachers, and it was also my calling. They all encouraged me, and I knew I could do it because I saw how passionate they were about the profession years after they retired.
Why App State?
I chose App State because I have always loved the mountains, but also because of its amazing education program and the support the university offers to education majors.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I became an Education Peer Ambassador to help other education majors receive support from their peers. It can be scary going to an advisor sometimes, so I want to be an option for a student if they have any questions or concerns.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
I would tell them not to get too stressed out about the big projects in the future, like professional development, edTPA, or applying to the College of Education. Those things will be worked on throughout their time here and will become easier with time!
What are your plans after graduation?
After I graduate, I plan to go back home and teach in the county I grew up in!
Meet Samantha Booher, Special Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
When I was younger, I went to a school that had 60% enrollment for kids with disabilities, and my teacher, Ms. T., was the biggest inspiration to me. I always wanted to be like her, and I still see her as the perfect blueprint of a teacher.
Why App State?
I chose App State because I knew that the education program was excellent, and I love the mountains.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I enjoy being involved within the College of Education, and I wanted to be there as support for my peers.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Try your best to become involved and form connections with your professors.
What are your plans after graduation?
I hope to teach in a self-contained classroom in public schools.
Meet Sophie Dixon, History/Social Studies Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
The person who made me want to become a teacher was my mom. Watching her teach students of all ages and showing them love, kindness, and grace has always been something that I wanted to give to my students as well.
Why App State?
I chose App State because the first time I stepped on campus, I knew it was where I belonged. My parents and I toured another college, and they were the first to say, “You are going to App, that is where you will be happiest”, and they were right.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an EPA because I wanted to help students like me who were far from home and needed resources to thrive in college and prepare to be amazing future educators.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
My biggest advice is to ask the hard questions and raise your hand in the scary, quiet classrooms because you are probably not the only one with the same questions.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduating, I plan on getting my master's degree and moving home to pursue my career as a high school history teacher.
Meet Katie Geshickter, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My mother was a preschool teacher for 17 years and made a huge impact on my decision to become a teacher. I was also blessed to be a substitute teacher for teachers on leave for two years and fell in love with teaching little ones!
Why App State?
When I was looking to go back to school to get my degree, I wanted to find the school with the best elementary education program. My search led me straight to App State!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
The people at App State were so welcoming when I first transferred here, and I wanted to give back! I love being able to help my peers in any way I can.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Do not be afraid to ask for help! The professors, faculty, and staff are on your side and want to assist you through your college career.
What are your plans after graduation?
I hope to get into the Library Science graduate program here at App State!
Meet Ella Gleason, History/Social Studies Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I want to be a teacher because of all the amazing teachers that I have had in my life, who made me love school and learning. I want to inspire future generations of students to be as passionate and curious as I was.
Why App State?
I chose App State because of the emphasis that is put on the importance of providing a quality education to future teachers. Teacher education is a priority here, and App State regularly ranks at the top of the state in terms of education. I believe that the programs and opportunities that I have here will make me a better teacher one day.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I saw it as a really good way to get myself more involved in the RCOE community. Additionally, I think as a future educator, it is very important to practice advising and providing help to people. The James Center is such a wonderful resource for education majors, and I'm so happy to be a part of it.
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 GET INVOLVED! Go to professional developments, club meetings, workshops, etc. This is especially important for incoming students who will be living on campus. It is much easier to attend these events while you are living ON campus. Don't save them for later, and make sure to get a lot done in your first year.
What are your plans after graduation?
My dream is to move to Brevard, North Carolina, and teach either 6th or 10th-grade social studies. I am super eager to get straight into the classroom, and I plan to take a few years to get settled before working toward a master's degree.
Meet Gwendolyn Griffin, Middle Grades Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I want to be a teacher because I feel called to the profession. My Grammy was a teacher for over thirty years, and I want to make a difference in students’ lives, just like she did.
Why App State?
I chose App State because it is “First for Teaching,” and because I love the mountains!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an EPA because I wanted to help others pursuing the same profession that I am, and I wanted to be more involved in the College of Education.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Seize every opportunity that comes your way, and find your people/places!
What are your plans after graduation?
Teach AIG Math and English!
Meet Olivia Grimes, Mathematics Secondary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember! I have had incredible teachers all throughout my life, but my high school math teacher, Melissa Sharpe, inspired me to major in math secondary education because she was caring and made math class enjoyable even for students who did not like math. I want to be a teacher to support students and help them succeed in anything they do.
Why App State?
I chose to attend App State because of the incredible education program. Further, a lot of other universities that I looked into did not offer a mathematics secondary education program. I also toured the Boone campus during my junior year of high school and fell in love with the environment. It felt like home!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I was an Ambassador for my high school and loved it! I enjoy being able to represent and advocate for App State because I have truly had such a wonderful experience here. I also wanted to connect with more students majoring in education because as a secondary education major, I do not get to spend much time in the RCOE.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Ask questions! Don't feel like you have to know all of the answers. It's better to ask than to miss out on something. Especially if you are a secondary education major, get involved in the RCOE! Make sure you know what is required for teacher education, like professional development.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to move back home and start working at a local high school. I also plan to get a master’s degree after getting a few years of teaching experience.
Meet Amelia Hicks, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
The moment kids learn something, making their eyes light up, and they have a spark of realization, that is why I want to teach.
Why App State?
App State's education program sold me. I felt community, support, and love the minute I toured the College of Education.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
When I toured App State for the first time, my dad, I walked into the James Center after my regular campus tour, and we met an EPA. This EPA gave much-needed information about the College of Education and is the reason I was sold on App State. Ever since then, I knew not only did I want to attend App State, but I wanted to someday be an EPA to have the opportunity to help other current and prospective App State students.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Find volunteer opportunities during your first two years working with kids or teaching others. During the first few semesters, you mostly take General Education courses, and it is important to stay connected to what you're passionate about in the first place.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to either get an accelerated master’s degree in special education while teaching or immediately go into the classroom and come back to school after a few years to get a master’s degree, which will set me up to someday become a principal or assistant principal.
Meet Keira Howald, Instrumental Music Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
Since becoming a musician, I’ve realized that music is so much more than notes and rhythms. It has the power to connect people, build confidence, and help students discover who they are. I want to become a music teacher so I can create a classroom where every student feels seen, supported, and capable of learning something meaningful through music.
Why App State?
When I was in high school, Dr. Ross, the director of bands at App State, visited my school. After hearing me play piccolo, he invited me to attend a Wind Ensemble rehearsal. I immediately fell in love with the faculty, the ensemble, and the welcoming atmosphere on campus. From that moment, I knew App State was where I wanted to be.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
As a music education major who spends most of my time in Broyhill, I wanted to connect more with education majors in other disciplines. I also wanted to represent music education and ensure that prospective and current music education majors understand everything that the James Center and Reich College of Education has to offer!
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
My biggest advice for incoming education majors is to get to know your professors and build genuine relationships with them! They want to see you succeed and are incredible resources for guidance, support, and opportunities. Taking the time to connect with them not only helps you in your classes but can also open doors for you in the future!
What are your plans after graduation?
I want to become a band director or teach elementary music!
Meet Amanda Jacobs, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
When considering this question, my mind can think of so many different reasons that I want to become an educator, but specifically, I had a teacher in kindergarten who really showed me what a true teacher leader looks like and really sparked my interest in education at a very young age. She was a very welcoming individual and made me feel very comfortable in the classroom. I hope to shape my classroom in a similar form so that my students can leave school with the feeling that they are safe, heard, and welcomed in my classroom. As a teacher, you have an amazing opportunity to enrich young minds while giving them a space to be comfortable and giving them a positive outlook on their education, and I hope to take advantage of that opportunity to have a positive impact on children's education.
Why App State?
I chose to visit App State because I wanted a change in scenery from my beach town. When I stepped onto App State's campus and got to see the mountains all around, feel the cool weather, and meet great people, I knew this was the place where I wanted to spend my next four years to extend my education. Also, I was selected to be a part of the Appalachian Community of Education Scholars (ACES) Program, which was a big deciding factor in choosing App State because I was so excited to be a part of an educational community with like-minded individuals and to expand upon my teacher leadership skills.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I wanted to have the opportunity to share my love for App State and education with incoming and prospective students. I was also excited to be a part of the EPA team so that I could offer advice and resources to my fellow future teachers in a way that employees of the James Center had done for me.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Something that I will tell incoming students is to make the most of their time at Appalachian. Get involved, not only in the RCOE but engage in clubs and activities all over campus as much as you're able to! You're going to meet great people in the College of Education, but there are also amazing people all over campus, so don't be afraid to branch out and find your people!
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduating, I will be a full-time graduate student for a year through App State's accelerated master's program. After graduating with my master's degree, I will return home to Brunswick County to serve in the school system that raised me!
Meet Reagan Ketchum, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My mom! She is my biggest inspiration for teaching because we bond over talking about teaching strategies and ways to decorate my future classroom. She pushes me to be a better person and a better teacher, and I will always appreciate her support in my career.
Why App State?
I loved the community feel of the campus. During my first tour at App State as a senior in high school, I remember everyone smiling at me as I walked by, and I just felt so welcomed by the atmosphere of the school. App State promotes positive relationships between students and peers and professors, and I’m so proud to be a student here.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an EPA in order to be a resource for current and prospective students to lean on for all things education-related. I wanted to be a support system for both students and staff to call on to assist with any needs, along with representing the College of Education in a positive way. Relationship building is so important in our career path and through being an EPA, I wanted to connect with fellow education majors to push each other to become our best selves and educators.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
My advice is to take things one day at a time and focus on what you can control. College can be stressful, so taking care of yourself and taking a step back to ground yourself will be so important. As educators, we are taking care of other students, but it’s also a priority to take care of ourselves.
What are your plans after graduation?
Not sure if I want to pursue graduate school or go straight into teaching!
Meet Sammy Krutisia, History/Social Studies Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I have always loved learning about history and talking about it, and in Wake County, I had a lot of passionate history teachers who inspired me to go into the education field.
Why App State?
I had a lot of App State alumni in my schools and knew about the reputation that the College of Education and the history education program has. The location and town of Boone were also appealing to me.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I truly believe in the FIRST for Teaching reputation that App State has, and I want to share that with future educators. Getting to work directly with current and prospective students gives me the chance to support that mantra, as well as help and learn from the future of the education field.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Make connections with your fellow education majors, even outside of your specific field. They have so much to offer in and out of class, and you can learn a lot from them.
What are your plans after graduation?
Return to Wake County, NC, and teach in the Wake County Public School System.
Meet Cat Laws, Art Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I want to be an educator because I have seen the impact that creating art in a positive learning environment had on me and my classmates growing up. I think giving children the opportunity to express themselves through a creative outlet is great for their mental health and cultivates a sense of community in a classroom as a creative space.
Why App State?
My grandparents on both sides of my family are from this area, and I have always felt a connection to the mountains. Boone is a beautiful place, and I love that I don't have to step far off campus to be surrounded by nature.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an EPA because I felt it was a great way to become further connected to the College of Education, since my major is technically housed in another college. Through this job, I have met amazing people, and I love the opportunity to share my experiences here with prospective students at recruitment events.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Be creative with the way you think about your classes that aren't related to education! The things you learn in your general education classes can also be important to your future teaching if you think about creative ways to implement those concepts in the future. It makes learning in gen eds more fun and engaging.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to either stay in state or move to East Tennessee and find a job working as an art teacher in a K-12 classroom!
Meet Leah LoPiano, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My kindergarten teacher! Miss Queen Griffin is the one who facilitated my love for school and learning in general. She made me feel as though I could do anything that I set my mind to, and in many ways, she was right.
Why App State?
Honestly, the mountains are magic. The moment that I stepped on campus when touring, I knew that I wanted App State to be my home! I don't think I will find any place like Boone, North Carolina. Plus, we are First for Teaching for a reason!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I was looking for an on-campus job, specifically in education, where I felt like I was able to help and support others. Being an EPA has helped me grow in ways that will continue to boost my teaching career!
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
TALK IN CLASS! Not only will you be more engaged with the content, but you will also know when you don't understand something, and others will be more willing to approach you and chat. It is important to put yourself out there right when you get here. I know it's hard, but it is so worth it!
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan on going back to Charlotte-Mecklenburg to hopefully teach K-2!
Meet Amari Mealy, Middle Grades Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I’ve always known that I wanted to work with kids in some capacity; however, it wasn’t until high school that I realized I wanted to be a teacher. I taught middle school theatre, and it was the most exciting, challenging, joyous, and rewarding experience I have ever had in my life. I loved watching my kids grow in both their technical skills and become kinder, compassionate, and thoughtful humans. I was privileged to have had such teachers in my life who got to know and care about me as a person first, and a student second. I want to provide the same sense of safety and empathy to the students in my classroom.
Why App State?
From the first moment I toured campus, I knew that App State was the right place for me. It was the first school that made me feel alive and excited about college and teaching, as well as a school where I truly felt that the students, staff, and faculty were genuinely interested in helping me succeed. There is a special kind of warmth, kindness, and sense of community here that I am grateful to be a part of.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
My first year of college was tough, and I wish I had someone who looked like to help me navigate it or just let me know that I’m not alone in my experience. I knew I wanted to provide that support for other students. You never know what simple things can change someone’s day. By printing, getting coffee creamer, or talking to a student during open house, I hope that I’m doing something that makes someone else’s RCOE experience a little bit brighter.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Even though it may take some time, you will find your people (both faculty/staff and fellow students), and when you do, it is the best feeling in the world. So, don’t give up if it doesn't happen during your first semester! The right people will find you!
What are your plans after graduation?
I'm pursuing my master's degree and then going back to teach in Virginia!
Meet Kayla Monroe, Middle Grades Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I've always wanted to become a teacher because I want to make a difference in the world. I think the best way to do that is to actively participate in the future of our world. Students need someone to believe in them and give them a chance, and I want to be that to them. Teaching is the best thing a person can do, and I am blessed to be on track for this opportunity!
Why App State?
App State felt like home to me. The second I toured, I knew this was it; something clicked for me. It was also lucky that it had my major and a great program to go along with it. App State is truly one of a kind, and becoming a future educator here holds weight no matter where you go. App State produces great teachers and great people. There is nowhere better for a future teacher to go.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I wanted to help other students like me in the College of Education. Being an EPA is a huge honor, and it feels great to be able to do all I can for other education majors. I also felt like this was an opportunity to network with others and be a light to people who might need me. I love the James Center and being able to work there and help people is exactly what I was meant to do!
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Ask questions and get involved! When I first got here, I didn't know what to do or where to go. I had people to ask questions to, and I also got involved in some of the great clubs we have on campus. It makes a difference when you finally know your answers and have people to rely on!
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to go back home and teach for a few years while I get my master's degree!
Meet Hannah Mullis, Special Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I wanted to become a special education teacher because I have worked with individuals with diverse needs and abilities in many different settings over my lifetime. I really have a heart for it, and I love being able to help people and their families realize what they CAN do.
Why App State?
I love the mountains, and the education program at App State is unmatched in the state!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I want to be a support to other students the same way that others have been to me because so many people have been supportive to me, and that's why I have had such a good experience in the RCOE.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
If it’s what you’re passionate about, then it’s worth it to stick with it. Lean on your peers and talk to your professors!
What are your plans after graduation?
Start teaching!
Jordan Sabbaghrabaiotti, Special Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My mother is an education teacher and has been my whole life. She is my main reason for wanting to go into the field of education. I also received special education services throughout my elementary school experience, which pushed me toward becoming a teacher.
Why App State?
App State has Teaching Fellows and ACES, which were two organizations that I wanted to be a part of, and thankfully got accepted into, which led me here to App State.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I valued learning from previous EPAs and feeling like I had a place to ask my questions and voice my concerns with someone who was my age and going through the same things I was going through.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
My one tip is to join clubs and push yourself to get out and meet people. You’ll never know who you’ll meet and they’re impact on your life in the school experience.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to continue my education here at App State, pursuing a master’s degree in literacy education.
Meet Jordan Sherrill, Special Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I was most influenced to become an educator by my mother, who has been in elementary education for the past thirty-one years, and many of my past teachers who have left a lasting impact on me. I chose special education as my field of interest because I have a deep admiration for tailoring education to meet an individual student's needs and support their success.
Why App State?
I chose to pursue my degree at App State because I valued this higher education institution that prioritizes excellence in teacher education.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I became an Education Peer Ambassador because I value networking with my peers and being a resource for them in any helpful way possible!
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Do not be afraid to get connected! Networking is everything! Join clubs such as Appalachian Educators or any major-specific clubs! There are many out there, and if not, you can start one!
What are your plans after graduation?
To teach students with intellectual disabilities and encourage them in their academic journey.
Connor Taylor, Biology Secondary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My biggest role model was my grandmother, who spent nearly two decades teaching pre-k and inspiring countless children with her compassion and love for learning. I aspire to follow in her footsteps! Additionally, my seven years as a STEM tutor and experience working with diverse learners have strengthened my dedication to teaching natural and life sciences.
Why App State?
I have visited the mountains my entire life, spending my summers in West Jefferson and at App State’s Track and Field camps. The memories I have here in WNC and at the university have drawn me to this campus to pursue my higher education studies!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
To provide prospective and current students the help they need, while also helping to bridge the gap between RCOE and secondary education majors — especially in science!
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Don't be afraid to reach out and utilize the resources offered here on campus!
What are your plans after graduation?
To pursue my M.S. in marine biology at UNCW and to teach secondary science!
Meet Lauren Tomes, Middle Grades Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I have always loved explaining things to others and seeing how happy they are when they figure out whatever they may be working on. This was true even in elementary school, and I realized I wanted to be a teacher when I was in middle school. All of my classes in middle school were make-or-break depending on who the teacher was. I want to be the teacher who makes students want to come to school and enjoy learning.
Why App State?
App State's location in the mountains and the fact that it is inexpensive were both big considerations. But the two main reasons were the ACES program and the field experiences. App State has us in the classroom as early as EDU 2000, which is not something I was able to find at too many other universities. The Appalachian Community of Education Scholars program has found me some of my best friends and opened up so many opportunities for me within the field of education.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an EPA because it was a good leadership opportunity and because the EPAs were always super helpful for me during my first semester/year. I understand how useful the EPAs can be as resources, and I wanted to be that resource for other students, too.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Take advantage of the professional development opportunities! I go to almost every single one that fits into my schedule, and they are so beneficial. Even if the professional development is outside of your specific major or concentration, there is a lot of valuable knowledge and advice being shared.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to go home and begin teaching right away in a middle school. I also plan on starting the process of getting a master's in education administration or starting the National Board Certification process once I am eligible.
Ashley Witte, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I have grown up around amazing teachers, my mom in particular. My fourth grade teachers really inspired me and I wanted to be just like them. I think education is the most important career, as it shapes our future generations. I want to instill love, kindness, and respect in my future students.
Why App State?
I love the mountains and being outside. I also knew I wanted to be a teacher and knew I would get an amazing teaching education here. I also knew how great the community is. There is nowhere else I’d rather be.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I want to be able to support my fellow education majors and guide them through the challenges and successes of being a college student. I love being able to help others and be an extra person they can go to if they need something.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Get to know the people around you! You can’t do this alone. Remember to keep a circle of good people around you. Don’t worry about being perfect, just worry about being the best you can be even if that looks different every day. Take care of yourself!
What are your plans after graduation?
Teach back at home or just somewhere in Western NC.