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 serve 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 fall there are three new additions to the Education Peer Ambassador Program. 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 20 of the ambassadors and learn why they chose to come to Appalachian, what or who inspired them to become an educator, and why they wanted to be an ambassador for the Reich College of Education.
Questions? Please contact Octavia Little for more information.
Meet Jean Carlos Garcia Reyes
Jean Carlos is an elementary education major from Winston Salem, North Carolina.
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I want to become a teacher because I want to make a difference in young lives, I love kids, and I want to make learning fun again! I want to leave a positive impact on all of my future students.
Why Appalachian?
I chose Appalachian because of the family aspect it has, how welcome I feel, and the hands-on experience we get from the very beginning.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an EPA because I have seen all the things they do for RCOE and Appalachian, and that is definitely something I want to be a part of. We are all very helpful individuals, who strive to leave a positive impact on many students and guests daily whether they are current or prospective!
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
At Appalachian, we are all a big family and we are excited for you to become a part of it! The education program here at Appalachian is amazing! We are given hands-on experience from the start and the professors in RCOE genuinely care about your success and dedication to become the best teacher you can be. Here, you can reach your dreams of getting to do what you love! Remember, you are not alone and you are going to do amazing things!
Meet Allen Thomas
Allen is in the Scholars with Diverse Abilities Program and is from Cary, North Carolina.
Why Appalachian?
The SDAP program allows people with disabilities to take classes and begin the steps towards a degree.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
To show that people with disabilities can achieve their dreams even when people say they can’t and to mentor young adults with disabilities.
Favorite thing to do in Boone?
I enjoy going to football games, eating at ComeBack Shack, and visiting the Greenway!
Meet Kathryn Watson
Kathryn is a mathematics secondary education major from Winston Salem, North Carolina.
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
Teaching is an important career that I have always respected! I want to be able to support people, the way that my teachers have supported me.
Why Appalachian?
It felt the most like home, my siblings went here, and every interaction I had at App was so warm!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to tell potential students why App was right for me, and help those students make their big decision.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Enjoy college while you are here, and try to get decent sleep so you can be mentally present during your classes.
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