"I learned so much from the educational program I completed at SBU. I learned theory, philosophy, and application. Because of the education I received, I was able to successfully begin my life-long dream of being a teacher.

I taught at School of the Osage in kindergarten and first grades for five years. I was able to use projects that I made while at SBU to help my students learn important concepts in each subject area. I was able to integrate curriculum to make meaningful connections for my students, and most importantly, I taught many students to read--something I will forever treasure! I then had the amazing privilege of returning to my alma mater to teach pre-service teachers.

When considering this career change, many things came to mind. First, I knew that I believed in the program at SBU, and to be a part of it as an instructor was an honor. Second, I knew that each year in the public schools, I could reach between 20-25 students each year. Yet, by teaching pre-service teachers at SBU who would then go out and reach their own 20-25 students, I knew that through them, I could influence so many more than I ever could on my own. Finally, SBU is in Bolivar which was home for me. My family has lived in Bolivar for several generations. It just felt right to come back home.

A degree in education is a unique degree because the student who comes to SBU to be a teacher, comes with a calling on his or her life. God has given our students brilliant talents and abilities to use as He molds and shapes them to become the teachers He has called them to be. Students in our program are blessed because they are instructed each day by men and women of God who proudly and boldly integrate their faith within this discipline. Students are loved and cared for, challenged, and pushed to reach their fullest potential. The program is rigorous and rewarding. My advice is to make sure that God has truly called you to be a teacher, then join this program with an open mind and heart to allow God to work in and through you during your time here. Be ready to work hard with a passion that God instills within you, then keep your eye on the prize until completion."

Julie Bryant