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 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.
Spring Open House is Saturday, April 13 on the Boone campus and Saturday, April 20 on the Hickory campus. Learn more about scheduling a tour.
Questions? Please contact Lindsay Cotten for more information.
Meet the Education Peer Ambassadors
Meet Journey Barnes, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I've always wanted to be a teacher but I especially knew teaching was my calling when I was in the third grade. My teacher had just graduated college so we were her first class. She put her heart and soul into teaching, always creating engaging lesson plans and teaching us how to be good people, not just students. After that year, I knew I wanted to be like her.
Why App State?
Appalachian and education seem to go hand and hand. Whenever I would tell people that I wanted to go into education, their first question would be if I was going to App State. After coming to visit the school and seeing all the amazing resources they have here I knew this is where I belonged!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become more involved in the Reich College of Education! The James Center is such an incredible resource for education majors and I wanted to be a part of it.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Don't let anyone talk you out of it! If you have the heart for teaching and it's something that you're passionate about then don't be afraid to pursue it. It's such a fun major and we need good teachers.
Meet Kiersten Caliguire, Theatre Arts Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My grandfather and my mother were both teachers, and I have seen the impact they have made on students' lives over the years, and I want to do the same.
Why App State?
App State has one of the best Education programs in the state and it feels like a second home.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an EPA to build more skills and be able to help incoming and current students.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Don’t pretend to be someone else or worry you’re falling behind. Learn to love who are and who you are becoming.
Meet Kayden Cox, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I come from a teaching family and I am so passionate about children that it really was a no-brainer! I can’t imagine doing anything else.
Why App State?
I love the mountains, the small-town feel, and the education program.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I love the James Center as a resource, and I wanted to be a part of that community to help other potential teachers.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Put yourself out there! Make your mark on AppState, join the Appalachian Educators Club, and find your people. Keep a positive mindset and you will go far!
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.
Meet Scottie Huger, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My sports medicine teacher encouraged me to be a teacher! He helped me decide and go through the hard process of figuring out what I wanted to do after high school, and he allowed me to help teach some of the classes to younger students, which really helped open my mind to the opportunities of teaching.
Why App State?
I am a transfer student, and I have been to a four-year school in Florida, a community college, and finally Appalachian State University. The biggest draw was the quality of the education program here. It is one of the best in the state, and on top of the quality of the curriculum, there are so many ways to get involved with the community and pursue your own passions outside of the classroom. Appalachian State also has one of the best support systems that I have seen throughout the different places I have been, and they are very willing to work with students to help raise them to their highest potential.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I want to take my experiences with different colleges and programs and use that knowledge to help other students who may be struggling to decide where and what they want to do. I want to be a support system for other students to come to when they need to ask questions.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
My biggest advice is to get involved around campus or around the community. It is easy (especially as an education major ) to get sucked into the classes and school and lose the experiences Boone offers. These experiences help contribute to growing as a person and also growing in your future teaching ability.
Meet Morgan Jones, Art Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I had an amazing art teacher in middle and high school who helped me realize my full potential with art. She was so helpful, understanding, and personable in a way that most of my other teachers weren’t. I just loved being in her classroom, and it inspired me to become a teacher so I can do the same for my future students.
Why App State?
I have always loved the mountains and knew I wanted to live out here at one point which narrowed down my choices. I chose App State because of its rich history as a teachers' college. It was the perfect combination of two things I was looking for in a school and just felt right.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I had helped the previous semester as a teaching assistant for the ACES Freshman Seminar class and wanted to do more for the Reich College of Education and become more involved.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
It can be a little daunting considering all that is going on in education right now so it is important to focus on why you are doing this and the impact you can make.
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 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 Ally McEntire, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I wanted to become a teacher because of my high school history teacher.
Why App State?
I knew we had a really strong education program, and I loved the mountains.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to get more involved in the Reich College of Education and help other future teachers.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Don't feel intimidated if you are still developing your leadership skills in the classroom. And never be afraid to ask questions!
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 Louise Mills, Secondary History, Social Studies Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My middle school math teacher, Ken Stanely, inspired me to be a teacher.
Why App State?
I chose Appalachian because I felt at home as soon as I stepped on campus.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
As a secondary education major, I felt a little disconnected from the College of Ed, so I became an EPA so that I could help connect other secondary majors to the College of Ed.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Challenge by Choice.
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 Jackson Payne, History/Social Studies Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
All of my teachers I have ever had have played an important role in my life, and I wanted to be that important someone to somebody in my life.
Why App State?
Appalachian State is where my grandmother received her teaching degree from in the 1970s so I wanted to follow in her footsteps because she was the best educator I have ever known.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to be a part of a team that could help other education majors at App State receive the resources they need and help foster a community of growth within Reich College of Education.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Advice that I would give to a first year student or a transfer student is to get involved and engaged with the App State student body. Find your people who are going to boost you up and help you strive for success.
Meet Patricia Polinski, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I always wanted to be a teacher since I was a little kid where I would play school with my dolls and stuffed animals. When I got older, I volunteered with Girl Scouts, which led to working at Summer Camp. The campers at that summer camp solidified my passion for teaching and made me truly want to be a teacher.
Why App State?
I selected Appalachian as it is very different from my hometown on the coast of North Carolina, and I fell in love with the school during my time at Summer Ventures at App State online.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an Education Peer Ambassador to help and support my fellow future teachers.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Let your passion for teaching/education/subject area lead the way. Teachers in education and subject areas share your passions and that will help you get through anything.
Meet Jordan SabbaghRabaiotti, Special Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
My mom is the reason I want to become a teacher. She is a special Ed teacher and I grew up seeing the care she put into her students, and I knew from a young age I wanted to be just like her.
Why App State?
Appalachian State has an amazing educational program that I wanted to be a part of so I was honored to be accepted.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
Everyone in the James Center is so welcoming and supportive when I’ve had questions or need help with something and I want to be that for someone else.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Get involved in clubs, you will meet so many great people!
Meet Jackie Siverly, Music Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I want to become a teacher because I believe it to be one of the most necessary and needed careers in our society. Education has the power to significantly improve people's lives and as a teacher, I would be playing a direct role in that positive change.
Why App State?
I chose Appalachian because of the intelligent and caring faculty and staff. After attending the open house and the Student for a Day program, I knew that the faculty were truly dedicated to my education and that App State was definitely a place that I wanted to be.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an Education Peer Ambassador because I knew that my experience as a music education major would provide a unique perspective to potential students.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
My advice for incoming students is to not be afraid to reach out and ask for help or advice from the faculty here. Everyone is very willing to help and motivate you, all you have to do is ask.
Meet Morgan Smith, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I wanted to become a teacher to give students the support I had as a child to help them become the best they could be.
Why Appalachian?
Appalachian made me feel like I was home and that I belonged. Also, I loved the views and how convenient the campus was to live in. The education program definitely swayed me as well!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to become an EPA because I wanted to become involved with the Reich College of Education as much as I could. I also wanted to be a resource for students with questions because having people to answer my questions was so crucial during my freshmen year.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
My biggest advice would be to let go and enjoy the journey life brings you. Also, get involved and ask questions!! It is what we're here for!
Meet Emma Weeber, Special Education General Curriculum
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I always knew I wanted to help people feel accepted and included and it was always my priority growing up. I had so many teachers whose classrooms were my safe space and I knew I could always rely on them. I still remember my favorite teacher, Mrs. Jensen. She inspired me to read, read, read, and write creative short stories and fostered in me a lifelong love for learning! I wanted to be that person for others, especially those who are often misunderstood or having a hard time in school, and help them see just how much they're capable of! I want to be an advocate for my students, help them celebrate each other's different perspectives and identities, and create an inclusive and safe classroom environment that my students look forward to. I want to inspire my students to persist through challenges, trust themselves, and become confident adults.
Why App State?
I chose Appalachian for so many reasons. Coming from Massachusetts, I knew I wanted to find a community of young future teachers who were just as passionate as myself about teaching. After finding out about the ACES program and reading about the special education program, my mind was made up. Everyone was so welcoming and the RCOE faculty felt like family. I've had so many incredible opportunities to grow as a teacher leader through the Appalachian Educators Club, ACES, and the Global Leaders Scholars program that I would not have had anywhere else. Best decision ever!
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted an opportunity to share my passion for teaching and information about the wonderful clubs and organizations that I am involved in! I also wanted to help other out-of-state students and special education majors feel seen by sharing my own experiences since coming to Appalachian and being someone they can go to for absolutely anything! I've always loved hearing about other people's perspectives and experiences, getting to know new people, and helping students feel like they belong.
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 trust the process. When you first get here, things will feel super overwhelming and you may not be able to see the end of the road. In fact, you might not even know what you want to do, where to start, or absolutely any idea what you're doing. Trust me, you will find people that will support you through college and once you start classes and field experience, you will find like-minded individuals that share your passion and you'll see that it is all so worth it! Things will be scary, intimidating, and confusing at first, but your professors and peers will inspire you and you will feel at home before you know it (although it's perfectly normal to feel homesick too!). Also, get involved! Appalachian Educators Club, ACES, and Global Leaders Scholars are just a few ways to find a community within the College of Education.
Meet Ashle Witte, Elementary Education
What or who made you want to become a teacher?
I have wanted to be a teacher since I could remember. Growing up I had amazing teaching role models like my mom and my fourth-grade teacher, Karen Whiting. I got to work with Karen during my senior year of high school through an internship where I worked closely with her class almost every day. That experience solidified my calling to education. I want to be able to inspire and connect with kids as well as Karen and my mom have for so many years. I believe teaching is something we are called to do and this is my calling.
Why App State?
Growing up in the mountains just outside of Asheville, I knew wherever I ended up had to be in the mountains. I have two older brothers, and when I was little I went on college tours with them, and I remember loving Appalachians even as a kid. As I got older I learned about how amazing the education program is here, and I heard about ACES. I thankfully got into ACES, and that has been an amazing opportunity and resource as a future educator. Overall, Boone is an amazing community where I feel safe, accepted, and valued; which I didn't always have in my small town at home. There is such a nice, homey feeling to this town and I love that I feel welcome here. I couldn't picture myself anywhere else.
Why did you want to become an Education Peer Ambassador?
I wanted to be able to be a student who supports fellow students. It is a great opportunity to get to know more about RCOE and expand my horizons in education here at App. Being able to help other students in their teaching journey is special to me because I know how hard and stressful college is. No one understands college students like other students. It is also another way to build community, acceptance, and a safe space for people to go when they need it. The James Center is an amazing resource for education students, and I wanted to be a part of that.
What tips or advice do you have for incoming freshmen and/or transfer students about majoring in education?
Connect with other students! Reach out to your classmates or people living around you, even if it's scary. I guarantee you will find someone who is feeling the same way as you or maybe going through a similar time adjusting to college and the education program. Make use of the resources available to you. You are not alone! Life is daunting when you try to carry all of its weight on your own, ask for help when you need it, and take care of yourself. Don't try to take on too much because you feel like "you have to". Do what is best for you and don't say yes to everything. Prioritize your peace and your mental health.
Education Peer Ambassadors standing around a sign
