When Mia S. (’27) isn’t in class at Westminster University, she’s in a different type of classroom–working with elementary school-aged students in her student teaching placements. As an elementary education major, Mia learns from hands-on experience, building confidence and applying her learning in a classroom like the one she will work in after graduation.
Mia’s journey started when she was a child and was inspired by her grandmother’s passion and love for the teaching profession. As she grew up, she searched for a place to turn her inspiration into a career. In Westminster’s elementary education program, Mia found a community that was ideally suited for her learning style.
“The education program at Westminster seemed like the perfect place for me after my first tour of campus in 2022. I went to a small private school growing up, so I knew that the small campus community was going to fit me best. I was right. I love getting to connect with my peers and professors on deeper levels and learn as much as I possibly can from all of them. Westminster's community is a very special place, and the education program is no exception to that,” she says.
One of the most important things that Mia has learned in the program so far is confidence in her career. When she entered college, she was unsure about pursuing education as a career after hearing others speak negatively about the field. Spending time with students and teachers in her teaching placements and learning from her Westminster professors has changed that.
“Once I began working at the schools and getting to spend time with students, I realized that I am meant to be a teacher and meant to make a difference in the lives of my students. Instead of being exhausted after spending all day with kindergarteners, I felt incredibly fulfilled and so full of joy. Westminster’s education program and the professors in it have believed in me more than I believe in myself at times, which is more than I could have ever asked for,” she says.
As she reflects on her time at Westminster so far, Mia encourages other students to pursue the opportunities within the elementary education major and to trust their instincts.
“My advice to those who want to pursue elementary education is to DO IT. There is no better major for people who are passionate about educating and working with youth. The opportunities are endless when it comes to teaching, and Westminster cares about preparing us for our futures. Trust your instincts and remember why you got into education in the first place. I promise, with time, it will be worth it.”
