What inspired or interested you about your field of study? And why did you choose Oregon State University? 

I’ve always been drawn to understanding people’s stories and what shapes who we become, especially how different environments, supports and challenges influence development. I chose OSU because it allowed me to stay close to home while offering vast opportunities in research, teaching and community engagement. 

What did you work on during your internship? 

As a student teacher in the OSU Child Development Center, I spent each day alongside the children, engaging in play-based learning and supporting their social-emotional development. 

I had the opportunity to create and lead small group lessons, practice classroom management and help plan school events. The internship gave me hands-on experience with the full teaching process, from observing developmental domains to participating in parent-teacher conferences and home visits, with the flexibility to be creative and the support of an incredible team. 

Toward the end of the term, I got to put everything into practice during my lead teaching week, where I designed the classroom and curriculum, leading all of the day-to-day activities. 

What do you see as the greatest value of your internship? 

Having the chance to apply what I learned in child development directly in the classroom was an incredible experience.  

Through my experience, I discovered a love for teaching that I didn’t know I had. I found so much joy in supporting the children’s growth, connecting with their families and learning about the diverse backgrounds and cultures that shape each child’s experience. 

What do you think of your experience at OSU/in the college so far? Any stand-out experiences? 

My experience at OSU and in the College of Health has been incredibly rewarding. There are so many opportunities to grow, whether through volunteering, networking, research, teaching or campus events, and I’ve felt supported every step of the way.  

One standout experience was working as a researcher on the Red Light, Purple Light project, where I had the opportunity to visit Head Start classrooms and conduct assessments with children to measure their self-regulation skills. I also learned valuable skills like data entry and video coding that I know will stay with me throughout my career.  

The professors are not only passionate about what they teach, but also genuinely invested in their students’ success, and the connections I’ve made with them have been one of the most impactful parts of my time here. 

Have you received a scholarship? If so, how has it affected your life and your studies? 

I am a proud recipient of the Ford Family Scholarship, as well as a National SchoolHouse Connection Scholar, Beat the Odds Scholar and Rising Star Scholar. These supports turned my college dream into a reality by easing the financial burden I faced and opening doors to mentorship and life-changing opportunities.  

Through SchoolHouse Connection, I’ve been able to use my lived experiences to advocate for youth at both the state and federal levels, including policy work in Washington, D.C.  

The Ford Family Scholarship gave me the chance to serve as a peer mentor for newer scholars, helping them navigate college and feel supported along the way.  

As a first-generation college student, I would not be at OSU without these scholarships and I am eternally grateful for them. They’ve empowered me to grow, lead and take full advantage of everything college has to offer. 

What are your post-college dreams/plans? 

After graduation, I plan to spend the summer working on research through the Hallie E. Ford Center, video coding classroom interactions for the Red Light, Purple Light project.  

In the fall, I’ll work as an assistant teacher in the OSU Child Development Center.  

As I continue building experience, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in social work or counseling. I have so much passion for working with children, and my interests within the field are wide-ranging.  

I hope to use this time in the classroom to explore where I can make the greatest impact and discover the path that will allow me to best support and advocate for youth and families.