Erika Fitzgerald '08
Major: Elementary Education
Minors: English, Spanish
Why did you choose Alma?
I felt so at home when I came and visited Alma. I really liked how personal the professors were. I also really liked how the education program allowed freshman to get into a classroom, so they could determine whether to pursue that career or not.
What have you been involved in on-campus?
Education Club and Honorar, Alma Leadership Alliance, Habitat for Humanity, Alpha Phi Omega, Barnabas Society, Center for Responsible Leadership, Bible Study, Prayer Group, Intramural Volleyball and Soccer, and Spanish Service Learning.
What do you see as strengths of Alma?
I see the relationships between students and faculty as an extreme asset of Alma. I absolutely love the education professors and how dedicated they are to their students. I have enjoyed my education placementss a lot as well. They have allowed me to realize this is definitely the field I want to go into in the future. The first hand experience is so beneficial and will make student teaching a lot easier.
How do you feel Alma has prepared you for teaching?
The different educaction classes and field placements Alma offers have really prepared me for teaching, and given me confidence in my teaching abilities. My education classes have encouraged me to dive into the field of education and experience it first hand.
Do you have any favorite experiences through the education department at Alma?
Yes, I really enjoyed taking the special education class that we are required to take. I have never had the opportunity to take a class like that one. It gave me a real insight into what it is like to have a learning disability. There is also a placement linked to this class, and these experiences really helped enable me to meet the needs of my future students.
