College of Education Student Ambassador

Meet Sheila Mwangi

Hometown: Lubbock, Texas
Major/certification area and anticipated graduation year: 4-8 grade English Language Arts/Social Studies

I decided to attend UTA because of its diverse campus and excellent programs. While in high school, I participated in competitions held in Arlington, and on one occasion, I caught a glimpse of the campus as I drove under the bridge near the Fine Arts building. The sight of the orange and blue lights made a lasting impression on me, and I remember thinking it was the coolest thing I had ever seen. That moment sparked my curiosity and fueled my desire to learn more about the university. After researching the programs and campus culture, I knew UTA was the right choice for me.

What I love most about being in the College of Education is the strong sense of community among my peers. From day one, I have felt a genuine camaraderie with my classmates, and I appreciate our willingness to help each other succeed in and out of class. The friendliness of my professors and advisors has also been a highlight of my experience. Their warmth and support have made me feel valued and motivated to pursue my academic and professional goals.

My favorite staff member is my advisor Marissa Johnson. She made my transition into the College of Education a smooth and easy process and was always available to answer my questions. With her help, I was able to navigate the academic requirements and make the most of my college experience. Marissa has been an incredible asset throughout my undergraduate career.

Out of all the courses I've taken so far, EDUC 2302 stands out as my favorite because it marked my introduction to the field of Education. Under the guidance of Dr. Myers, I gained a wealth of knowledge that I know will be useful when I become an educator. The course covered a range of topics that broadened my perspective on Education. Overall, I'm grateful for the valuable insights and experiences that EDUC 2302 provided me, and I'm excited to apply them in my future career.

I consider myself a bookworm and set a reading goal each year. Last year, I aimed to read 20 books, and this year, I've increased my goal to 30. As time goes on, I hope to continue raising the bar and reading even more books!

After graduation, my plan is to pursue a career in Education. Specifically, I am interested in becoming a teacher at the middle school level. One aspect of teaching that excites me is the opportunity to inspire a love of learning in my students. Another aspect that excites me is the chance to make a difference in my community. As a teacher, I will have the opportunity to work with students from diverse backgrounds and help them achieve their full potential. I am passionate about creating a positive and inclusive learning environment that supports every student's unique needs and abilities. Overall, I am excited about the prospect of pursuing a career in Education and making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people.

Prospective Education students should have a passion for working with young people and a commitment to making a positive impact on their lives. Teaching can be incredibly rewarding, but it also requires patience, empathy, and a deep sense of purpose. If you are committed to making a difference in the lives of students and are willing to put in the hard work and dedication required, then the field of Education can be an incredibly fulfilling and meaningful career path!

During my first year of college, I struggled to balance my coursework, extracurricular activities, and a part-time job. I found myself feeling overwhelmed. To overcome this challenge, I sought help from my professors and academic advisors. They provided me with valuable guidance and support. Additionally, I made a conscious effort to prioritize self-care and found ways to incorporate hobbies and activities that brought me joy into my schedule. Through this experience, I learned the importance of seeking help and support when facing challenges. I also discovered the value of taking care of oneself to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance. I believe that these lessons could inspire other Education majors who may be struggling with similar challenges