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Pictured is Daniel Strickland, Special Education Major

Meet Daniel Strickland

Major/Program
Secondary Education (Special Education cert. available)
Graduation
April 2019
Scholarships
Trustee
Hometown
Dormont, Pa.
High School
Keystone Oaks High School

"The opportunities that the education program offered really helped me decide to attend Point Park. They provide in-depth and real life experiences for students in the major. I got into classrooms in the Pittsburgh area almost immediately in my first month here!"

Daniel Strickland

Why did you choose Point Park University?

The opportunities that the education program offered really helped me decide to attend Point Park. They provide in-depth and real life experiences for students in the major. I got into classrooms in the Pittsburgh area almost immediately in my first month here at Point Park! The Downtown location, and how accepting and helpful the university is to their students solidified my decision.

Who is your favorite professor, advisor, or staff member?

My favorite staff member is Caleb Rodgers, who is the Resident Director of First Year Students. He is always willing to answer my questions, whether they make sense or not, and is totally honest with me. He has made my experience as a Resident Educator a smooth ride and extremely rewarding. Thanks Caleb!

How did you adjust to life in the city when you first arrived on campus?

I have lived near the city for about 10 years, and I adjusted to actually living in the city by exploring the fun places to eat, shop, and hangout downtown with friends.

What is the most important lesson that you've learned while being in college?

Time management. I've learned to handle several papers and various projects at once, all while maintaining a social life.

What kinds of opportunities have you had as an education major?

I have shadowed teachers in several school districts in my first year. One of the most amazing opportunities I've had so far at Point Park was instructing my own kindergarten class for an entire day. I've gained so much experience in my time here so far, and I know I chose the right major and university for me.

Lawrence Hall or Thayer Hall?

I was assigned to Thayer Hall for my first year, and again as a Resident Educator. I thoroughly enjoy Thayer because having communal bathrooms gets students out of their rooms and creates a more social environment as a floor. Having a social floor means a better overall community, which positively impacts new students' experiences.

Theatre and performing arts are a huge cultural part of our city. What kinds of shows have you been able to see in Pittsburgh?

I have seen too many! My three personal favorites were Beautiful: The Carole King Musical back in November, The Drowsy Chaperone at the Playhouse with Point Park University, and Spring Awakening with Park Productions. Theatre is a huge part of Pittsburgh and my life. I seriously enjoy taking advantage of student discounts that the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh CLO, and other companies provide.

What advice would you give yourself as a first-year student?

Always be open to meeting all kinds of people at Point Park. Also, always leave your residence hall door open because you never know who will walk by.

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Photo by Annalee Tomak, senior public relations / advertising major
Text by Maggie McCauley, senior broadcast reporting and public relations / advertising major

 


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