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Pictured is elementary education alumna Lily Pruneda. Photo submitted by Pruneda.

Meet Lily Pruneda

Job Title & Employer
First Grade Teacher at Pembroke Lakes Elementary, Broward County Public Schools
Major/Program
Education Pre-K – 4th Grade
Graduation
December 2018
College Activities
Point Park Women's Softball Team
Scholarships
Merit and athletic
Hometown
Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
High School
Cypress Bay High School
Now Living In
Southwest Ranches, Fla.
Hobbies & Interests
Sports, travel, youth mentoring and coaching softball

"I loved how small the classes were and how I was able to really get to know all of my professors and classmates. This made a huge impact on my education — not making me feel like I was just another body. My professors were able to get to know me and help me throughout my time at Point Park."

Lily Pruneda

How did you land a full-time teaching position for the fall?

After graduating from Point Park University in December, I was hired as a pool sub, covering teachers and staff when they were absent from work. This spring, the administration for Broward County Public Schools contacted me about a full-time teaching position, based on my performance and teacher recommendations.  

What factors made you choose Point Park University to study education?

I grew up in Florida and I wanted to go to school out of state and play competitive softball while earning a good education. I discovered Point Park University's website and learned about the great undergraduate education programs offered. 

Coincidently, several players from my high school baseball team were attending Point Park so I was able to speak to them about the school and the Pittsburgh community.

Furthermore, my father worked with people who were born and raised in Pittsburgh so we were able to get additional information that assisted me with making an informed decision. All these factors helped me choose Point Park University as my learning and playing destination.

How have our classes and faculty impacted you?

I loved how small the classes were and how I was able to really get to know all of my professors and classmates. This made a huge impact on my education — not making me feel like I was just another body. My professors were able to get to know me and help me throughout my time at Point Park. 

Describe your student teaching experiences as a Point Park student.

I did my student teaching for Pittsburgh Public Schools at Colfax K-8 School in a second grade classroom. I had such a wonderful experience. My cooperating teacher was knowledgeable and helpful. She taught me so much during my time with her and prepared me for my own classroom this coming fall. I also enjoyed all my students and I learned from them as well. They helped me to learn about myself as teacher and how I want to grow as an educator.

What are your favorite Point Park memories?

I enjoyed going to all my different field experiences. I gained so much knowledge being able to go to various schools and learn in a hands-on environment. These experiences helped shape my teaching and I loved working with all the students.

What are your career goals?

My goal is to become a fabulous, fun, caring and honest teacher. Through my learning and life experiences, I hope to shape young minds and get them ready for the world, not just the next grade level. I want to inspire and motivate students and young athletes to do their very best, every time.


More About: success story, education, Pittsburgh Public Schools, student athletes, alumni, elementary education