What’s your favorite class? Why?

This is a difficult question because I’ve had four professors I would take ANY class from because they are so engaging. If I must only choose one, I choose Dr. Lina Darwich and her Child Development and Learning class. Lina is an amazing educator and it shows—any time you see her walking around campus you will also see and hear her previous students who are excited to see her.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

I was intrigued that such a high-quality program offered a track for people who can’t quit their day job. I also liked the hybrid online/in-person model.

What do you like or find most interesting about your program?

I am fascinated by how meta the MAT program is. We are learning about theories/values/methods of teaching while simultaneously learning from professors who are employing those same theories/values/methods. It’s not always obvious and it gives a person a lot to think about.

What do you like most about the cohort model in your program? What unique perspective do you bring to your cohort?

I love being in a supportive, tight knit cohort that overlaps with other cohorts. It allows for the best of both worlds—being part of a small group while also being exposed to a broad range of other students with different backgrounds. I suppose a unique perspective I bring to my cohort comes from my experience growing up in a very small town and experiencing how socio-economic status impacts the educational experience from K-12 through college. I also try to find the humor in things (when appropriate).

Tell us about your support systems and social outlets on campus: people, activities, etc.

The faculty are extremely supportive, but my biggest support system is my cohort. We mesh well and are all happy to lend a hand if somebody needs support.

Did the graduate school’s mission of social justice influence your decision to attend Lewis & Clark? How does that mission align with your personal goals?

I didn’t come to Lewis & Clark specifically for the social justice focus, but it was a factor that made the decision feel right. The social justice focus of this program has helped me work toward my own goal of supporting marginalized communities by helping me better understand my position and how to leverage it to help others.

What has your practicum experience been like? Have you experienced anything unexpectedly challenging or rewarding?

My practicum has been a great opportunity to apply my learning. I have encountered highly challenging situations I would have never anticipated, but that has been balanced by incredibly rewarding moments.

How did your financial aid package influence your decision to attend Lewis & Clark?

My financial aid package was a huge influence on my decision. Without the support I have been provided, I would not be here in this program.

What advice do you have for incoming students?

Get ready to be vulnerable. Lewis & Clark challenges you to look honestly at yourself, analyze who you are, and consider your impact on others in a multitude of arenas. Sometimes it is difficult, sometimes it is emotional, but it is always worth it if you are willing to be vulnerable.

What have been the biggest challenges you have faced at Lewis & Clark?

There have been some incredibly difficult classes. There have been moments that I wasn’t sure I was up to the challenge, but looking back, that is where the most impactful growth was happening.

Part-Time MAT Elementary Education