Hybrid learning. Masks. Physical distancing. COVID-19 testing.
When the fall 2020 semester kicked off at UW–Madison on Sept. 2, everyone realized it would be unlike any that had come before. But our School of Education students remained upbeat — and proved to be just as driven and inspiring as always.
Prior to the start of the semester, several students shared their thoughts with us on going to college amid a pandemic, what they were excited about entering the semester, future plans, and much more. Following is a sampling of those responses:
Madison Sherman
Art Education (BS)
What brought you to UW– Madison? Both my parents went here, and I’m actually named after the school! Also, I loved the aca- demic opportunities available to students.
How did you choose your major? I’ve been working as an art teacher locally for the past two years and realized that I have a passion for it. Art Education is a really interesting major to me, and I know that I can continue on to do many things with it.
Bo Blocker
Special Education (MS)
What are you most looking forward to at UW–Madison? I am mostly excited to network, communicate with like-minded individuals, share thoughts, build each other up, and be on this journey together, progressing in the Special Education program with my cohort.
What are your career plans after graduation? After graduation, I will be looking for opportunities as a special education teacher in my hometown of Beloit, Wisconsin. I want to be a part of the community where I grew up, contribute to the advancement of special education services, and advocate for change in societal perceptions, striving for a more inclusive society.
Jian “MJ” Mao
Education Studies (BS) and International Studies
What brought you to UW–Madison? First, the excellent quality of education at UW–Madison. Second, coming from a bustling city of more than 25 million people in Shanghai and then spending two years in Honolulu on the tiny island of Oahu, Madison felt like the right place with just enough vibe of a city but without the crowds. Also, the lakes were a good substitute for the Pacific Ocean.
How did you choose your major? I was not certain about what I wanted to study at the very beginning, and the choices in my mind were interior design or business. Second semester, I enrolled in an education policy class (with the Department of Educational Policy Studies) to fulfill a general requirement, and I ended up loving it. Being an international student with my unique cross-cultural educational experience in both China and America, I have always hoped to explore the concepts and disciplines of global education, relate that to my own experience, and understand its educational and social context linking to the larger world.
The School of Education’s national and international reputation, along with its extensive alumni connections, sets a solid foundation for future job searching.
Alexus Lor
Elementary Education (BSE)
What will you be focusing on during fall semester? During the fall 2020 semester, my main priority is getting used to my hybrid schedule of both in-person and online classes that will kick off my elementary education program.
Then, I will be prioritizing a new student organization my group and I co-founded called “Diverse Leaders in Education.” Its purpose will be to help and support students of color in developing effective and essential leadership skills to pre- pare for the field of education after their undergrad and beyond.
What are your future plans? First, I want to get a few years of experience teaching at the elementary level (preferably kindergarten through second grade). Then, I’d like to go back to school for my master’s or PhD in educational leadership and eventually get certified as a principal or superintendent. I hope to pursue a career where I can actually make changes in the public school system, because I am a kid who graduated from a Milwaukee public school.
Kory Pucker
Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling (MS)
Can you share a little about your background and what brought you to UW–Madison? To understand my decision to enroll in the clinical rehabilitation counseling program, it must be understood that my reality growing up was a bit “atypical.” I grew up with Knoblock Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that results in extreme nearsightedness.
Throughout my undergrad years, I worked at several summer camps that specialized in innovative recreational opportunities in an accessible environment for individuals with varying abilities. … It was at camp that I found an interest in the profession of healing.
How do you feel going into the fall semester? In short, a balance between nervous yet determined. Obviously, COVID-19 has shifted the way we interact and engage at all levels of learning. Yet, we must remain open to make necessary changes to keep our neighbors safe and healthy.
Claire Minor
Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis (MS)
What brought you to UW– Madison? I studied abroad a few different times throughout under- grad (at Arizona State), and these trips were some of the highlights of my educational experience. I have always enjoyed gaining insight on cultures, ideas, and worldviews that are different from my own. … I feel that my time in the global higher ed program will allow me to learn more about the world around me and gain insight on how to be the most well-rounded student, team member, mentor, leader, and person possible.
What are you most looking for-ward to at UW–Madison? I am most looking forward to making connections. I am very excited to get to know my advisor, my professors, and the members of my cohort on a deeper level throughout the next two semesters. I am also eager to get to know the city a bit better. Madison is full of diversity, culture, and life, and I can’t wait to jump right in!