I am observing classrooms and working with teachers to gain hands-on experience.
When I first came to D'Youville, I was a Nursing major. I soon realized that the type of career I wanted was to work with kids in a classroom setting as a teacher. With the help of my professors and advisor I switched majors to Childhood Education.
Although I am only a sophomore, I am already observing real classrooms and working with teachers to gain hands-on experience at schools like West Buffalo Charter School, a partner school of D'Youville. The teachers there are so enthusiastic about DYC students coming to observe them. We help the teachers with various activities and lessons and really get to know the kids we are working with.
I chose D'Youville for the small school setting. It was important to me to be able to talk with my professors face to face instead of being in a class of hundreds. The professors in my department are amazing. Not only are they great teachers, but they are mentors. They give advice on teaching based on their own experiences and stories. They really care about helping me reach my goals.
At D'Youville I've also had a chance to participate in community service, like the Adopt-a-Grandparent program at Mary Agnes Manor, a nursing facility close to campus. I've also served as a mentor to Da'Vinci High School students to help them consider their college options. Most recently I began working with Professor Helen Kress to establish an Education Club on campus, which is set to begin in the spring.
The small school setting really does make D'Youville feel like a second home where you know everybody and everybody around you wants you to succeed.
Alyssa Iglewski
Combined Degree Student
Liberal Studies for Education (BA) + Childhood Education (MS)