Education Major Works as a Camp Counselor for the Summer Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Meet Elizabeth Cole
Major: Elementary Education
Minor/concentration: Special Education, Kindergarten through 8th grade
Summer position: Camp Counselor at Camp Deer Creek in Indianola, Pa.
Expected graduation: May 2014
College activities: Mentor for the Strong Women, Strong Girls organization
Hobbies/interests: Spending time with friends and being outside
Hometown: Penn Hills, Pa.
Who inspired you to pursue a career in education?
There have been a number of people who have inspired me to become a teacher. Looking back, I think all the teachers and professors I have had have impacted my life and helped me grow. When I think about all that I have learned from them, I can't help but want to have that kind of impact on my students. My past teachers have helped make me who I am today, and having that same effect on a student would mean the world to me as a teacher.
Why did you choose Point Park?
Choosing Point Park was very easy. I love being in the city. There is always something to do and always somewhere to go. As a Point Park student, I am lucky to have Pittsburgh be my campus. I am also lucky to be a part of such a great school with wonderful people. I knew the moment I stepped onto Point Park's campus that this school was for me. Walking into a classroom at Point Park is not intimidating. The environment is so welcoming.
What do you enjoy about your position as a camp counselor?
There are so many things that I enjoy about being a camp counselor. The campers have a way of pushing you. They drive me everyday to be the best person that I can be. They allow me to bring out my "inner child" and have a good time with them. The people who I work with are a great part of my job too. The staff at Camp Deer Creek is the best!
In what ways do you think this summer experience has helped you in your career field?
My summer experience at Camp Deer Creek has helped me in a number of ways. I have learned a lot in my time at the camp - from having patience to seeing what it's like to be really organized one week and not so much the next. One of the goals that I have developed is to remember that learning does not always have to come from technology. Learning can happen anywhere at anytime with any kind of material. Each day at camp I am surrounded by nature and it amazes me how much the kids enjoy being outside and learning from each other outside of a regular classroom setting.
What are your plans for the fall?
For the fall, I plan on continuing to be a full-time student living on campus. I will also continue to be involved with Strong Women, Strong Girls. I love that organization and all the wonderful people who work there. In addition, I'll be a work-study student in the School of Business for the second year. Overall, I am very much looking forward to what my junior year has in store.
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