Bard, A Place to Think - Master of Arts in Teaching

Hometown: Copake, NY
Previous Education: The College of Saint Rose
Currently Teaching
11th grade English and film, lyrical poetry, and fiction writing electives, Mt. Everett Regional High School, Sheffield, MA

Why did you want to become a teacher?
Adolescents are my favorite age group. English is my favorite subject. If you put the two together, you have my ideal profession. I believe that without education, the world cannot go on. In addition, teaching a subject helps me learn a subject. The best way to really understand literature, I believe, is to teach it.
With adolescences, I can work with them to figure out literature. I like that I can really challenge adolescences. Plus, my other long-term career goal is to become a mom. Although this career is dominating, it will help with that.

Why did you choose Bard?
I’m from Columbia County, NY, which is very close to Bard. In our area, Bard is known for its prestigious academics. From the moment I came in contact with Bard, the staff was willing to help me with every process. Of course, I wanted to be accepted into Bard, but getting to know certain staff members during this process made me want to be a part of the community even more.
What really sets Bard aside from the other programs is their focus on the students. They truly care about student success. I would wholeheartedly recommend this program to any prospective teacher; you’ll be happy with your selection.

What do you like best about Bard’s MAT?
The faculty. Without the faculty, there is no program. Bard has acquired world-renowned scholars to be a part of their mission. You cannot go elsewhere and receive the quality of education you’ll receive from Bard.

Tell us about your student teaching experience.
Student teaching really helped prepare me for teaching. My first cycle, I was at Red Hook High School. My mentor was great and really allowed me to explore as a new teacher. My final cycle was at Chatham Middle School. This is where I completed my Academic Research Project. My cooperating teacher allowed the space I needed for me to conduct thorough research and grow as a new teacher.

Is there a particular professor or course that you especially enjoyed? Why?
Dr. Derek Furr, a British literary scholar. I was fortunate enough to take numerous classes with Dr. Furr. Dr. Furr was my Academic Research Paper advisor, my independent study mentor, and my poetry teacher. Derek is the most patient man I’ve ever met. He takes his time with his students and makes sure they have a further understanding of whatever they’re studying.

Is there anything else you would like to share with prospective Bard students?
Bard is a fantastic choice. The program is small, so you’ll get the attention you need and deserve. The professors are highly educated, so the quality of education is unlike any other. The faculty in general is here to see you succeed and want to aid in your success.