Katie Katkich

What year did you graduate from SRU and what was your major?
I graduated with my undergrad in May of 2010 with a degree in Secondary English Education. I then later returned to pursue graduate studies and earned my diploma in December of 2014 with a degree in Special Education for grades 7-12.

What job(s) have you landed?
Since the completion of my undergrad, I have landed a number of teaching opportunities from ESL instruction, secondary English instruction, and instructional support. In June of this year, I was hired at the Western Beaver County School District as an English Teacher/Media Specialist. Currently, I am working with administrators and teachers in updating what was the junior-senior high school's library into a media center. Not only am I in the process of updating this space, but I also teach a section of library science, as well as work collaboratively with teachers across all content areas as they and their students use the media center's resources.

How did you prepare for the interview for the job you landed?
Since I have been working for the Western Beaver County School District in some capacity for a number of years (day-to-day substitute, permanent substitute, and instructional aide), I was able to cultivate a strong foundation of knowledge on the district that allowed me to have a leg up on the competition. Being knowledgeable of a district's clientele, it's philosophy, and it's successes and areas of growth is key in making a good and lasting impression. Being fluent in your own teaching philosophies and staying up to date on current practices despite holding a full-time teaching contract is greatly important as well. ELA Common Core shifts, IEP components, differentiated instruction strategies, and Classroom Diagnostic Tools (CDTs) are all facets that I may have not yet been able to actively implement, but I made sure that I had the knowledge base to effectively and efficiently discuss each one. During my roles within the district prior to being offered a full-time teaching contract, I also treated every working day as an interview. Believing in such allowed for me to prove my worth to the district. It allowed for me to show to my employer that I could make a positive impact on both the students the district served, as well as create a positive rapport with the staff that I worked with.

What types of recognition, awards, honors or even activities have you been involved in?
This past spring I was recognized by The Prevention Network and CLASS Academy as a Golden Apple Award Nominee. Myself, as well as other educators from school districts across Beaver County were recognized for their dedication to students, school spirit, positive influence on colleagues, and some trait that makes them unique. The award and nominations honored teachers who showed true dedication and leadership to their positions.
Within my district I am also actively involved in the show choir and musical productions. I will be entering into my third year working with a team of individuals in creating memories and making the school's musical a success for our students. Despite the long hours, I enjoy every single minute of it. Theater has always been a passion of mine, and sharing that same passion with my students is both fun and rewarding! Teaching them the added skills of teamwork, accountability, and the development of a positive work ethic are added bonuses. This year Western Beaver will be proudly presenting Disney's Beauty and the Beast!

What SRU experience or faculty influenced you and in what way?
There are many experiences and faculty members that influenced me in a positive way that allowed me to be career ready. I can remember my trip to Philadelphia for the National Council for Teachers of English Convention during my undergrad. Attending this conference allowed for me and my peers to sit right beside experts and professionals, which we were then able to create dialogue and connections with as we reflected on new ELA resources and practices. During my undergrad, Dr. John Hicks was a professor that treated us as teaching professionals and not simply as students of teaching. Many of the philosophies he shared still resonate with me and are evident within my classroom today. In completion of my graduate work, Dr. Jeremy Lynch made a strong influence on me as well. Although we never met in person due to the online nature of the Special Education program, I always felt I had a sense of support. His coursework was rigorous, but pushed me in ways that allowed for both personal and professional growth.

What else can you tell us about your success story that SRU students could learn from?
One caveat of knowledge I would like to share is that it is important to remember that we are all people. We are all individuals who are just looking for kindness and support. Remembering this can help you on those "bad days" in the classroom. I have learned that if you give your students the respect they yearn for the moment they step into your classroom, the much more cooperative they are with you. I have learned that if you look at your students as people and individuals rather than just students, they are much more likely to obtain goals and personal successes that they will carry through with them once they leave your classroom doors.

Kalli Wakefield

What year did you graduate from SRU and what was your major?
Undergrad- 2013 (Sped/Elem Ed) Graduate- 2014 (Sped Autism Emphasis)

What jobs have you landed?
Structured Learning Lab Teacher in Tomball ISD

 How did you prepare for the interview for the job you landed?
I did mock interviews with my roommates and friends

What have you done well at that job?
I have been able to use my knowledge gained from SRU in the classroom.

What types of recognition, awards, honors or even activities have you been involved in?
Coaching Volleyball

What SRU experience or faculty influenced you and in what way?
Mrs. Badgett, Dr. Monfore, and Dr. Merhaut were all my biggest fans both during undergraduate studies and graduate studies. They believed in my abilities and pushed me to be the best educator as I could. 

What else can you tell us about your success story that SRU students could learn from?
Never give up and push yourself outside of your comfort zone. I moved from PA-FL-TX all in 2 years and I wouldn't trade it for anything!

Jacqueline Bailey

What year did you graduate from SRU and what was your major?
I graduated from SRU in 2012, Summa Cum Laude, with my B.A. in French and a minor in History. Then, I decided to enter SRU's Master of Education program (Secondary Ed), which I completed in 2014.

What jobs have you landed?
Last year, right in the middle of the school year, I landed a teaching job in Port Charlotte, Florida, as a Secondary French teacher. I love it! I am so glad that I took the leap and moved. I live about 1 hour north of Fort Myers, and I am a proud "Port Charlotte Pirate" (our mascot).

How did you prepare for the interview for the job you landed?
To prepare, I used SRU's website to access an online interview practice website, which Dr. Hicks frequently encouraged us to use during our education courses. Using the site, I recorded myself answering teaching interview questions, and I referred back to books and notes that I'd taken during my education coursework at SRU. I think the practice was very beneficial. The questions that I was asked were the basics: assessment, field experiences, classroom management, etc.

What have you done well at that job?
I have successfully completed my district's NET (New Educator Training) program, and I've had several positive evaluations. I also increased French enrollment by 50 students this year! I hope that I'm renewing my school's love of the French language.

What types of recognition, awards, honors or even activities have you been involved in?
No awards yet--still working on that. However, I am the French club sponsor, and I'm also taking on the Drama Club this year! I'll be doing many fun activities, including field trips to see the Cirque du Soleil in Orlando and putting on our Drama Club's infamous Haunted House in the school auditorium this Halloween.

What SRU experience or faculty influenced you and in what way?
I was most influenced by my wonderful professors in the Modern Languages Department, especially Dr. Tom Daddesio. I had many wonderful mentors from that department. Also, my study abroad experiences in Cannes, France, really helped me be a better teacher. I have a wealth of knowledge and experiences to share with my students about French culture, and I don't think that I'd be as successful as a teacher if I hadn't had those. Thank you to everyone in the Modern Language department!

What else can you tell us about your success story that SRU students could learn from?
I think that the most important advice I could give to current students is to work very hard now, because that motivation and discipline shows when you get your first job. Also, don't be discouraged when applying for positions. Keep going! You'll never get one until you try.

Jen Collins

What year did you graduate from SRU and what was your major?
I am a recent Spring 2015 graduate. I majored in Early Childhood Education and Special Education.

What jobs have you landed?
I have landed a job teaching a Middle School Science and Social Studies in a grades 6-8 self contained special education classroom.

How did you prepare for the interview for the job you landed?
I met them at the job fair that SRU hosted in October. I had researched the school, the school district, as well as the student population, and made sure I knew all of my information.

What have you done well at that job?
I have done a very good job with classroom management and making sure to engage the students in the lessons.

What types of recognition, awards, honors or even activities have you been involved in?
As a brand new teacher, to the profession and the district, I have been excelling in the classroom, had the principal state to other administration that she is extremely impressed that I am a new teacher and conduct myself as a seasoned teacher. I have also become the school's head volleyball coach.

What SRU experience or faculty influenced you and in what way?
Block 2 had a huge impact on my teaching career. Until that point I never thought I would be able to teach science or social studies. However, I found my strength during Block 2 with Dr. DeCarlo and Dr. Yensick. Now I am able to teach with confidence and enjoy teaching.

What else can you tell us about your success story that SRU students could learn from?
SRU has provided me with an education and the classroom experience that exceeds most other universities. The amount of paperwork that I have received within my first few weeks at my new school was very overwhelming, however, I was able to step back and think about all of the fundamental skills I have been taught. Slippery Rock has been able to make a positive name for itself. Many people in South Carolina have heard wonder things about Slippery Rock!

Jasmine Sable

What year did you graduate from SRU and what was your major?
I graduated from SRU in August of 2013 with a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education and Special Education, as well as the National Certification (minor) in Nonprofit Leadership

What jobs have you landed?
With my Nonprofit degree I work for the Laurel Highlands Council; Boy Scouts of America at their premier Boy Scout/Cub Scout Resident Camp, Heritage Reservation. I also am currently a teacher in the Lincoln County Schools located in North Carolina. I am a Middle School Exceptional Children's Teacher and I teach both ELA and Math in the resource and inclusion settings. Before that I was a K-5 Elementary Exceptional Children's Teacher in the Gaston County Schools located just outside of Charlotte, NC.

How did you prepare for the interview for the job you landed?
I always prepare myself for a job interview by writing down key notes about myself that will set me apart from other candidates. I always like to point out that because I graduated from SRU, I have more "in the classroom" experiences than most graduates seeing that our experiences begin around Sophomore year. 

What have you done well at that job?
Slippery Rock has prepared me to not only excel in my positions, but to thrive as a new teacher. The Special Education Department's commitment to integrating the importance of differentiated instruction as well as the legal aspects of IEP's has put me well ahead of other first and second year teachers. 

What types of recognition, awards, honors or even activities have you been involved in?
Last year I had the pleasure of assisting with the 4th grade Drama Club within my Elementary School. 

What SRU experience or faculty influenced you and in what way?
Alice Del Vecchio is hands down the best professor that SRU has on campus. She is in charge of the Student Nonprofit Alliance as well as the courses that are incorporated into the Nonprofit Degree. Alice was more than just a professor in my time at SRU; she was a mentor, a friend, and a mother figure when any of us needed a "gentle" reminder to stop slacking off. Alice opened many doors to new experiences in my life. She helped me visit central Europe where I gained not only Nonprofit work experience, but long lasting life lessons and experiences that I often bring up in job interviews. She also helped me secure my spot in the Preparing Global Leaders Institute in Skopje, Macedonia my Senior year in college. I was able to travel to Macedonia to participate in a 65+ cohort from over 52 countries. I gained knowledge and experiences from the two week course that I can't imagine getting from anywhere else. I still use strategies and information that I learned in PGLI daily in my classroom. (It also doesn't hurt to boast about in future job interviews!) Alice still keeps in touch with all of her graduated students- she continues to make sure that we all have the needed skills to be an effective and contributing member of society. 

What else can you tell us about your success story that SRU students could learn from?
If I had a chance to talk to myself as an incoming Freshman to SRU I would want to scream with neon lights to, "GET OUT THERE AND TRY!" I can't tell you how many times I didn't join a club, go on a trip, volunteer for a few hours, all because I was too nervous to put myself out there. It took me at least two years to realize how friendly and outgoing the faculty and staff\ are at SRU and that I was certainly in good hands. Once I began volunteering for things like Exceptional Adventures and became President of the Student Nonprofit Alliance- I gained skills, experiences, and lifelong friends that still affect my life today.

Jenna Depizzo

What year did you graduate from SRU and what was your major?
Early Childhood and Special Education (undergraduate), Spring 2014
K-8 Math and Science Education (graduate), Summer 2015...

What jobs have you landed?
I was very lucky to land my dream job teaching first grade at Bascom Elementary School (LaBrae Local Schools, Leavittsburg, OH) before I graduated with my undergraduate degree from the Rock! This is my second year as a Viking.

How did you prepare for the interview for the job you landed?
I visited the SRU Career Center many times to perfect my resume. I also made sure to go to job fairs and mock interviews to gain experience "selling myself" as the ideal candidate for a job in elementary education. Above all else, my years competing in the Miss America Organization are what truly prepared me to interview with ease and confidence.

What have you done well at that job?
In my first year, I was beyond ecstatic to launch my school's first ever STEM Day, inspired by Dr. DeCarlo's STEM Day project at Sharon City Schools, where I completed my student teaching. STEM Day was an incredible success. We were able to get families involved in their student's education, as well as make sure our kids were having fun exploring STEM related careers through hands on challenges. We are expanded STEM Day this year to be STEM Days, with four separate events during the school year!

What types of recognition, awards, honors or even activities have you been involved in?
I was honored to serve as the grand marshal during my graduation from my M.Ed. at Slippery Rock. I completed my final year in the Miss Ohio Scholarship Organization as Miss Clayland 2015 and a Top Ten finalist, earning enough scholarships to pay for my entire Master's program at SRU. I am very involved with my county's 4-H program, and am proud to serve my community through various other organizations.

What SRU experience or faculty influenced you and in what way?
Above anything else, the faculty at SRU made the biggest impact on my life beyond college. My professors inspired me daily to be the best teacher I can be for my students. I have a word jar in my classroom because of Dr. Findlan; I journal my funny and frustrating moments because of Mrs. Badgett; I am more creative with interventions because of Dr. Lynch; I teach my students to become scientists in all they do because of Dr. DeCarlo and Dr. Snyder. These professors and many more have made me the educator I am today, and I am so thankful for their continued hard work and dedication.

What else can you tell us about your success story that SRU students could learn from?
During my undergraduate program, I was constantly looking for opportunities that set myself apart from other teacher candidates. I was involved on campus, I volunteered in the community, and I served as an unofficial teacher's aide during every break. These activities kept me very busy, but paid off ten fold. When I graduated, I had 7 different job offers. This wasn't by accident or luck. Each of the administrators that called me to set up an interview made a connection to my resume because the activities I participated in during my time at Slippery Rock University. One called me to interview simply because she wanted to hear more about my spring break trip with the special education department to Costa Rica! By being involved in the campus and community, by going beyond the "bare minimum," I was able to gain the experiences that prepared me to be a qualified teacher candidate.

Chelsea Wisniewski

I graduated from Slippery Rock in May 2013 with a degree in Elementary and Special Education. I was hired at Moon Area High School in November 2013 and got a permanent position the following year. I looked at several practice questions online, talked to teachers who I knew and explored the school website to prepare for the interview. I also made sure... I knew a lot about the IEP as well. I make sure I am prepared and on time each day and keep parents updated as much as possible. I also coach the Varsity cheerleading team and participate in extra duties for the school. My SRU experience was incredible. I loved all of my Professors and reached out to them when needed. My advice for everyone would be to never give up and keep applying everywhere, even if it may not be your "dream job". If you work hard, it will get you where you want to be.

Antonia Arch

I graduated from Slippery Rock in May 2013 with a degree in elementary and special education. After searching for a teaching job in Pittsburgh for a year I moved to Charlotte, NC in July 2014. I was hired as a special education teacher at Queen’s Grant High School and started there for the 2014-2015 school year. I co-taught English, Math, and Personal Finan...ce classes at the high school. I also was hired as the varsity cheerleading coach. After working at Queen’s Grant High School for a year I learned of an opportunity to work at the Queen’s Grant lower school, which is a charter school managed by National Heritage Academies. Elementary was obviously more of a passion of mine than high school, so I interviewed for that position. I am so blessed and thankful to say that I was hired at the lower school. It was bittersweet to leave the high school, and the first teaching job I ever had, but I knew this would be a better fit for me. So now, I currently work as an elementary special education resource teacher. My advice for preparing for an interview is to research the school as much as you can. It is important to know the values and ideals the school holds. It is extremely hard to go into a teaching interview and be expected to know every different type of curriculum, teaching style, and philosophy out there. It feels like the interviewer wants you to give a summary of everything you ever learned in your four years at college. So if you don’t know something, be honest and tell the interviewer that you are unsure, but you are always open to learning and you are interested in knowing more about the topic. I always took plenty of work samples with me to interviews and gave examples of work I had done previously. Interviewers always ask about “situations” you have been in. Try and think of the best examples you can, but don’t ramble. Be concise and to the point with any example and situation you give. The most important thing to do is be confident in yourself. Tell yourself that you are going to get the job and the school is lucky to have you there, not the other way around. Also, I know professional dress is rammed into your brains in the College of Edu, but it is really SO IMPORTANT. You definitely do not want to walk into an interview with wrinkled pants or dirty dress shoes.

In addition to working at the school, I also used my experience at SRU’s AOII chapter to become an alumni advisor to AOII chapter at Wingate University. Last year Alpha Omicron Pi colonized at Wingate and I was able to help a whole new group of girls be initiated into the sorority.

I loved my time at SRU. The education department there really inspired me to the best teacher I can be. Dr. Matt Erickson was definitely one of my favorite professors at SRU. I continually think back to his suggestions for special education and how I can incorporate his methods into my instruction. He also taught me to always be compassionate towards my students and remember that they are people too. Dr. Vogel was my advisor during my time at SRU. I know he doesn’t work there any longer, but I will always be grateful and appreciative for his guidance at Slippery Rock. He also was the first person to teach me how to write an IEP. It is funny to think back about how naïve and inexperienced I was in college, but the professors at Slippery Rock really did their best to help us get real world experience.