Meet the Spring 2025 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 spring 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. 

Spring Open House is Saturday, April 12 on the Boone campus and Saturday, April 26 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 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 of teachers made me want to be a teacher!

Why App State? 

App State’s education program!

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to support my classmates and get prospective students to love this place like I do!

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

I would say to not let how things look on paper stress you out! It seems like a lot but everyone is so supportive, and I have had the best time in the Reich College of Education.

Meet Connor Blumenthal, Music Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

The reason I want to become a teacher is to inspire other students through the gift of music, as I was by my music teachers.

Why App State? 

I originally did not want to attend App State, but after attending the School of Music’s “Student for a Day” I knew that there was no other place I wanted to attend! The professors were so kind and loving, but there was no other school that felt like my second home other than App State.

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted the opportunity to help students out through the experiences I have had at App State and help them avoid mistakes that I had made.

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

You don’t have to know what you want to do!! Find some things you enjoy doing and take classes parallel to those passions! Take some general education courses while you’re figuring it out, but you don’t have to have your life figured out; that’s what college is all about. Also, go exploring! There are so many amazing unique things Boone has to offer you will never be able to find anywhere else in the country.

Meet Samantha Booher, Special Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

My teacher and babysitter, Ms. Tameka, worked with students with disabilities and was so inspiring. I got to witness how many lives she impacted and always wanted to be like her.

Why App State? 

It is beautiful in Boone and the education program is really good!

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to become more familiar with the Reich College of Education and the James Center for Student Success and Advising.

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

One piece of advice for anyone majoring in education is to never let anyone try to steer you away from doing what you are passionate about.

Meet Abby Brown, Child Development

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

I want to work with children due to my passion for advocacy. I believe that every child should have access to high-quality care and education that is equitable, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate. I want to be a teacher in order to provide this sort of education to the next generation. 

Why App State? 

I have always loved App State. I grew up visiting Boone, attending football games, and exploring campus with my grandmother when she was a professor. Upon taking a tour of the Reich College of Education, I discovered the child development major and knew it was where I belonged. 

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I applied to college during the COVID-19 pandemic, which made it extra difficult to navigate the application process and take tours of college campuses. When I toured the Reich College of Education, the Education Peer Ambassador went out of their way to make me feel welcome at a time when it was hard to connect with others. I want to provide services to prospective and current students that leave them feeling the same way. 

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

Build relationships with each of your professors! Stay after class, attend office hours, and actively participate in class. 

Meet Thea Dowdle, Elementary Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

I want to become a teacher because I am, first and foremost, passionate about teaching. I have always understood the vital role that educators play in the lives of students. I am inspired by this and greatly desire to be a part of this critical role, helping to impact students in significant ways, along with my students affecting me. I also come from a long line of educators who have inspired me to pursue a career in education and work to help encourage, empower, and impact students throughout my classroom.  

Why App State? 

I love the positive atmosphere, educational network, community of peers, and beautiful outdoor opportunities.  

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to provide support for current and prospective students in the Reich College of Education. This was a valuable tool for me during my own application and transfer process.  

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

Don't be afraid to ask for help! There are several resources available to you if you're ever feeling overwhelmed. Put yourself out there! Go to the club meetings and professional developments — try to meet as many people as you can!

Meet Katie Geshickter, Elementary Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

My desire to become a teacher was deeply influenced by my mom, who has always been passionate about education. Growing up, I saw the positive impact she had on her students, which really inspired me. My time as a long-term substitute teacher also played a significant role in solidifying my decision. During this experience, I realized how rewarding it was to help students learn and grow. It confirmed for me that teaching was not just a career, but a calling that I wanted to follow.

Why App State? 

I chose App State because of its excellent elementary education program. The strong reputation of the faculty and curriculum felt like a perfect fit for me. 

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to become an EPA because this college and the people within it have already done so much for me, and it means a lot to me to be able to give back and help future teachers in the same way that I've been helped. 

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! Professors, staff, and fellow classmates here are all really willing to support you. Whether it’s guidance with coursework, advice on teaching strategies, or personal encouragement, there are always people available to help. We have so many resources that can help you on your journey to becoming the best teacher you can be. 

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 likeminded 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 also was 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 your time at Appalachian. Get involved, not only in the RCOE but engage with 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! 

Meet Quinn Katarzynski, Elementary Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

I am passionate about becoming a teacher because my love for education began in first grade and has remained with me ever since. I am driven by the desire to inspire and guide future generations, fostering a love for learning that lasts a lifetime. The opportunity to make a meaningful, lasting impact on young minds is what continues to fuel my dedication to this profession.

Why App State? 

I chose App State because of the education program as well as the beautiful mountains and outdoor activities.

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to be able to help current and future students in the Reich College of Education. Along with giving them advice with things that do not necessarily have to do with the academic side of things but help with adjusting to college life.

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

Ask for help and do not shy from asking questions! Listen to what your heart tells you because you will hear a lot of negatives to teaching. As long as the passion is there you will succeed.

Meet Reagan Ketchum, Elementary Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

My mom is a teacher, and she has always inspired me to be a teacher since she makes such unique and personal connections with her students that create that bond of trust and support students need. I also want to be a teacher to give students a safe space during their academic experience that they might not have at home. Other than providing an accepting and collaborative learning experience, I want to be a teacher to be a role model for my future students and show them that they can do anything they put their minds to.

Why App State? 

I chose App State because I fell in love with the small-town feel of Boone as well as the College for Education since it would offer me so many opportunities to engage with other future educators while setting myself up for success in my future teaching career. App State felt so welcoming and accepting from the minute I started my first campus tour. The people here are what makes App State feel like home.

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I want to be the supportive mechanism that incoming students can rely on to prepare them for what App State can offer. Engaging with other Education majors is very important as well because we can all learn from each other and be there for each other as we grow into our academic fields.

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

My advice is to make the most of every opportunity offered to you! Find ways to be involved within the College of Education and you will gain relationships and experiences that will last a lifetime. 

Meet Reece Lancer, English Secondary Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

My senior year English teacher made me want to become a teacher. I remember sitting in his class every day and walking out, saying, "I want to do that." I want to support my students and prepare them for life after high school, whatever that may mean for them. 

Why App State? 

I love the mountains! App State is also an incredible school for education, and there are so many resources and opportunities to succeed and be a great teacher! 

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to be a support to help students navigate the often confusing world of education and licensure and overall experience in school. As an upperclassman, I have some experience and want to help those go through the process smoothly like other EPAs had helped me. 

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

Find ways to be involved, and make sure you record all your volunteer and professional development events you attend! 

Meet Cat Laws, Art Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

My second grade art teacher, Ms.Thompson, made me want to become a teacher because she was compassionate toward all students and emphasized the importance of our creative expression both in and out of the classroom. Her kindness has always stuck out to me and I want to be able to share that with future students. 

Why App State? 

I chose App State because when I visited, I was blown away by the education department and just how passionate and friendly the faculty and other students were. I thought the mountains were beautiful too and I wanted to connect back with my family's history here.

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to become an EPA because I wanted the opportunity to help other future educators find the resources and opportunities they need to be successful in RCOE and beyond. A good support system is important and making connections with other education majors is a good way to build that support system of people who understand your academic experiences. 

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

Ask questions! It can be a little intimidating but everyone here is friendly and willing to help. Make connections too, and get involved in the community both on and off campus. 

Meet Sahcil Llamas-Gonzalez, Child Development Birth-Kindergarten

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

My second grade teacher reading teacher, Mrs. Ledbetter, and my fourth grade math teacher, Mr. Dieso. Both of these teachers taught me that there is fun and joy in learning.  

Why App State? 

When I first visited Appalachian, I was amazed with the mountains and the views the town had to offer, but what I loved was the sense of community following this town. I knew I wanted a university that would challenge and best prepare me for my future and Appalachian was that college!

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I wanted to help potential and future educators and professionals in their journey. Whether it was as a resource or another person to talk to who has experienced a similar path, I wanted to become an aid for future educators. I wanted to be able to give back to the program and the community that helped me get to where I am now.  

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

Get involved! There are so many events and clubs in the Reich College of Education geared to students majoring or interested in education. These events not only connect you with other students in the field, but also create connections with professors and professionals who can provide you with advice, perspective, and opportunities.  

Meet Leah LoPiano, Elementary Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

My mom! My mom used to be a preschool teacher/director, and she is why I fell in love with teaching. Whether it was helping prep lessons or cleaning up around the preschool, I have always felt that I belonged in the classroom. My mom is the reason why I know how much hard work, patience, and love goes into teaching children. 

Why App State? 

Other than being the first in teaching, I decided to go to App State because of the community. Appalachian State, as well as Boone, makes students feel like they are at home. I love having the experience of going to a large college while also getting the education of a smaller, more intimate college. At App, I'm not just another student, it feels like I am a part of something much bigger!

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I love utilizing the James Center for Student Success and Advising and its resources. The James Center and the college have inspired me as an educator. Education Peer Ambassadors support students and help make their experience at App State less intimidating!

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

I would advise any first-year or transfer students to take advantage of opportunities provided by Reich College of Education! RCOE hosts events, professional development, and resources that aid students in their education journey. Utilizing these opportunities is important in furthering your education and understanding, as well as being social events to get to know other students who are in your major! 

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 during my junior and senior years, 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 as well as become more kind, compassionate, and thoughtful humans. I was so privileged to have such teachers in my life who got to know and care about me as a human first, student second and I want to provide that 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 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 school where I really felt like the students, staff, and faculty are truly interested in helping me succeed. There is a special kind of warmth, kindness, and sense of community here at App that I adore. 

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, and I wanted to provide that support for other students. You never know what simple things can change someone’s day and 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!

Meet Joe Meyerson, Middle Grades Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

My Parents.

Why Appalachian?

Because its location is in the mountains and is a top-rated school.

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

To help other students become teachers or understand if they want to teach.

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

It may look scary or stressful but it is so much fun.

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? 

My parents went to App State, and I grew up visiting Boone, I love the mountains and the education program here. 

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? 

I think the best advice I could give is to stick with it and get involved because the further into my degree I have gotten, the more involved and plugged in I have felt. 

Meet Sophia Ordonez, Elementary Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

My mom, who is a school social worker, made me want to become a teacher. Although she is not a teacher, growing up watching her work with children inspired me to pursue a career as a teacher. As a social worker, she spent most of her time working with children who had family issues, behavior problems, and bad attendance. I always admired the way she searches for the best in the students she works with. She always recognizes their full potential and does everything she can to push them to be their best. She never gives up on her students, she pushes them until the day they graduate. As a teacher, I hope that I will have the patience and compassion to do the same. 

Why App State? 

I chose Appalachian because I fell in love with the community and environment here. The students and teachers were so welcoming and made me feel like I belonged from the first moment I walked on campus. Also, being a member of the ACES program led me to choose Appalachian. I was honored to be a part of a program where I can create relationships with other education majors and have opportunities to advance my leadership skills. ACES has already made such a positive impact on my college experience, and I am so grateful to be a part of it. 

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to become an EPA to share my love for App State and passion for education with current and incoming students. App State and the Reich College of Education have given me so much in my time here, and being an EPA allows me to give back.

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

Get involved! RCOE houses several clubs, organizations, and programs that can help you connect with other education majors and find community at App State.  

Meet Katlyn Poole, Elementary Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

I decided I wanted to become a teacher because I participated in Teacher Cadet in high school. I worked with a fourth-grade class every day of my junior and senior years of high school, and they helped to show me that teaching was the career for me!

Why App State? 

I chose Appalachian because of the amazing education program and all the wonderful opportunities that are offered for students to grow as future educators, like ACES, the Global Leaders Scholars Program, App Ed, and so much more!

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to become an Educator Peer Ambassador because I remember coming to Open House when I was making my decision about coming to App. All of the EPAs were so kind and helpful and really helped to show me that App was the school for me, so I wanted the opportunity to help students in the way I was helped.

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

My tip for incoming first-year students/transfer students is to build a community and get involved on campus. As educators, one of the most valuable things that we can have is a community of educators around us to support us as we become teachers, and college is the best time to start building that community. App State has so many wonderful clubs, organizations, and opportunities to get involved with, like App Ed where you be able to build those connections that will last far after graduation.

Jordan Sabbaghrabaiotti, Special Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

My mother is my reason for wanting to be a teacher. She is my biggest role model and I have been able to see the incredible work she does and the impact she has had on so many of her student's lives. 

Why App State? 

I always knew I wanted to be a teacher so I knew that I wanted to go to a school with a great education program.

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to be a part of a team that's there to support other students and I get the incredible opportunity to do that as an EPA. 

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

Don't be afraid to go out of your comfort zone!

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? 

App State Cross Country Camp was a massive influence as it was always the highlight of my high school summers, and it’s where I fell in love with App State’s campus and the town of Boone. My connection to the area spans over the last nine years, with countless memories from XC camp and family visits to nearby West Jefferson every summer!

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

I wanted to become an Education Peer Ambassador to support my fellow secondary education majors and to emphasize the vital role and growing need for future STEM educators!

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

Get involved as much as you can — whether it’s through networking events, ACES/NCTF, professional development opportunities, Appalachian Educators, or any other resources available! Don’t be intimidated or hesitant; take advantage of everything offered to you and make the most of these opportunities! 

Ashley Witte, Elementary Education

What or who made you want to become a teacher? 

My favorite teacher, Karen Whiting inspired me to want to go into teaching. My mom is also a teaching assistant and has worked in Elementary schools almost my whole life. Watching these two amazing women impact so many children and make a difference made me want to do the same. 

Why App State? 

The mountains, the community, and the education program!

Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador? 

To help fellow education majors on their learning journeys and be an extra support system for those in RCOE.

What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education? 

Be gentle with yourself! You need to be your own best friend and care for yourself before you can care for others. Teaching is a hard profession and you can't do that if you don't maintain self-care and personal peace.