My name is Rachel Warriner. I am currently student teaching at Blue Ridge Elementary School in Ashe County, where I work with a class of dynamic fourth grade students. I am preparing to complete my student teaching in Ireland, and I am extremely excited to have this opportunity.
I decided to go into education because of my passion for learning. I strongly believe that you must have a desire to learn new things in order to be an efficient teacher. I love working with students, as most educators would proclaim. I am especially fond of the upper grade levels. One of my greatest passions is reading. As a teacher, I look for varying opportunities to encourage my students to read and enjoy literature. I think this is what I am most looking forward to on my trip to Ireland: to see how the schools approach and interpret children's literature in the classroom.
When I heard about the study abroad opportunity offered by the College of Education, I leaped at idea of pursuing a global perspective in my field of study. Encouraged to participate by my academic advisor and other professors at the university, I applied for the Ireland program. I have always wanted to travel abroad and experience a new culture, but had never fully pursued an opportunity. I am thrilled to finally jump on a plane for the first time and get that global experience I have been looking for.
With this experience, I am hoping to learn a great deal about the Irish culture and their stance on education. I am looking forward to learning the intricacies of the Irish history, while also taking in the everyday cultural aspects such as food, entertainment, and recreation. I plan to spend ample time with my host family, my school cohort, and the other ASU students to fully take advantage of the experience.
As said before, I am thrilled to have this opportunity, and can't wait to make the trip in just a few short weeks!!