1. What is your educational background and what positions have you
held? Please include the current school district and grade/s.
I am an alumna of Laurel High School. After graduating, I earned my bachelor's degree in biology from Westminster College. I then pursued my master's degree in secondary education at Slippery Rock University. Upon completing my studies, I worked at New Castle High School for one year before transitioning to Union High School. I currently teach Biology, AP Biology, and Anatomy & Physiology.
2. Name one SRU experience, in general or specific to
the field, that you will never forget and explain why.
One experience at SRU I will never forget is the field experience at New Castle High School. Unfortunately, it was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, I remember it as the first time I stood in front of a biology classroom, assisting with labs, and designing and delivering my first lesson. I recall my excitement at experiencing my initial taste of being a teacher.
3. Name an SRU faculty that had a positive influence on
you and explain why.
Dr. Mark Hogue is the faculty member who had the most positive influence on me. He not only covered the syllabus content but also provided practical teaching advice, ranging from the interview process to classroom setup and effectively engaging students in the lesson. He offered assistance even beyond graduation when I was applying for my first teaching job. He is a professor who goes above and beyond for his students, and it does not go unnoticed!
4. What initially piqued your interest in pursuing a degree
in education?
Initially, I went to college to become a veterinarian. However, after shadowing a veterinarian and nearly passing out during a routine surgery on a dog, I realized it was probably wise to change career paths. Uncertain of my direction, I was teaching horseback riding lessons when a parent remarked, "You have a gift for teaching; you're great with the kids." It was like something clicked, and I realized that I wanted to teach one of my other passions: biology. After taking a few education classes, I fell in love with the profession and knew it was my calling.
5. What do you love most about teaching?
What I love most about teaching is being the one to teach students how the natural world around them works. I love seeing their faces when I tell them they were once a single cell or watching their jaws drop when I reveal that they have about 38 trillion bacteria cells living in and on their bodies. Hearing, "Wow, that's amazing!" when they look into a microscope for the first time and see the microscopic world around them is invigorating. I love seeing my students get excited and interested in biology; it makes my job worthwhile!
6. What makes a great teacher?
