About the Educational Studies Program

Jessica

Jessica's ('21) favorite things about Westminster are the ability to work with the community in a chosen area of focus and the support systems, like professors and advisors, that are available to students. And, the many events that Westminster hosts on campus are an excellent opportunity for some fun during free time.

Through the customization opportunities in the Educational Studies program, Jessica is studying the relationship between creative arts and trauma therapy with juveniles in the justice system.

Zaura

From the beginning, Westminster's supportive faculty and community, as well as the fun and engaging atmosphere of classrooms, have been evident to Zaura ('23). Zaura is pairing the Educational Studies program with a TESOL minor and arts coursework with a theatre concentration. Currently, Zaura is developing an arts-integrated lesson plan that can be used in first and second-grade classes. The lesson plan engages with students by using music and dance to learn about the life cycle and food preferences of dinosaurs.

During free time, Zaura enjoys taking fitness classes at the Health, Wellness, and Athletic Center, taking naps in the library, and working in a new leadership role with the Black Student Union.

Mara Kusher

In addition to the Educational Studies program, Mara ('15) pursued a minor in outdoor education and leadership while at Westminster. During that time, Mara was able to complete a research project and multiple internships, which provided valuable experience for future job opportunities.

Because of an interest in working with young children and diverse learners, Mara is currently working with 3–6-year-old children at an inclusive Montessori school. Majoring in educational studies allowed Mara to take classes that helped prepare for working in a variety of settings, such as this one.

Notable Accomplishment: Invited to begin training for a Montessori license though current position.

Kate Pasco

At Westminster, Kate ('20) completed the Educational Studies program along with a minor in the Spanish-Latin American Studies program and an Honors certification. Because of an interest in social justice and education policy in K–12 education, Kate is now pursuing a master's degree in public administration at the University of Utah, concentrating on K–12 education. To gain experience, Kate serves as a graduate assistant in the Utah Education Policy Center.

Notable Accomplishment: Invited to present undergraduate thesis at the American Educational Research Association’s 2020 annual meeting.