I am a non-traditional student who was so unbelievably scared to go back to college after 20 years. How were the other students going to react to me? Could I really do it? All of these fears were thrown out the window after the first day. The students were so welcoming and inclusive. Professors were relatable and always maintained an open-door policy. At Missouri Western, the teaching program puts us into actual classrooms as much as possible. With this, I am able to use my life experiences as a benefit and assist other students in succeeding.

Melissa Berger—Missouri Western State University 

As a future teacher, my goal is to show students that their struggles don’t determine their successes. Throughout my schooling, I have suffered many losses in my life. During my most challenging times, many of my teachers helped me to stay motivated and focused on the future. Recently I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of several elementary classrooms. My goal is to one day create a classroom environment that provides my students with encouragement and support.

Whitley Petonke—Park University.

I am a first-generation American Latina with a goal to become an effective teacher in an underserved area, much like the one that saw me shine. When my father immigrated to the U.S., his main motive was the education my siblings and I would receive. As an English-language learner in an underserved area, I was fortunate to have a support system that guided me through graduating from Kansas’s top ranked high school. Every child has potential, regardless of their economic background, the color of their skin, or where they are from. I want for my future students to fall in love with their education, an education that allows for growth, empowerment, and success.

Jasmin Pulido—Emporia State

I am a non-traditional student who was so unbelievably scared to go back to college after 20 years. How were the other students going to react to me? Could I really do it? All of these fears were thrown out the window after the first day. The students were so welcoming and inclusive. Professors were relatable and always maintained an open-door policy. At Missouri Western, the teaching program puts us into actual classrooms as much as possible. With this, I am able to use my life experiences as a benefit and assist other students in succeeding.

Melissa Berger—Missouri Western State University