Teaching, Literature, and Building Community at Brockport
Q: How has your time at Brockport and in the English Education program been?
I’ve had a wonderful experience at Brockport. I live on campus, and I felt at home here right away. The English faculty have been incredible—honestly, I could give a glowing review of every professor I’ve had in the program.
Being an English major is incredibly valuable—you’ll learn how to think critically, analyze texts, and derive meaning from them. Reading a diverse range of perspectives broadens your worldview, making you a more well-rounded person. Plus, the ability to write, speak, and communicate effectively is useful in every field, especially in teaching.
Q: Can you describe your Field Experience in the English education program?
In the fall, I was placed at Oliver Middle School in Brockport, where I worked in an eighth grade ELA classroom. I observed lessons, participated in classroom activities, and even created a review activity to help students with fragments and run-on sentences. I wrote a quiz and administered it to students, which was a great learning experience. Currently, I’m at East Ridge High School in Irondequoit, working with a mix of ninth, eleventh, and twelfth graders.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my current placement has been answering students’ questions about college. A lot of them are curious about SUNY Brockport and campus life. I even helped one student with their college essay, which was a meaningful experience.
Q: Can you describe what it has been like to work alongside your mentor teachers?
I’m not just a passive observer—I’m encouraged to jump right in and take an active role in the classroom. I always ask my mentor teacher, “How can I lend myself to your classroom?” so I can maximize every opportunity to learn and grow.
Q: What other extracurricular opportunities have you been part of at Brockport?
I’m involved in several activities on campus. I serve as a senator for the Brockport Student Government (BSG), and I’m also the president of the Swing Dance Club. Additionally, I’m a member of the Honors College and have submitted creative writing pieces—a poem and a short story—to Jigsaw, Brockport’s student-run literary magazine. I’ve also written for The Promethean.
Being part of the Honors College has been a great experience. I’ve taken multiple classes with Dr. Busch and I’ve been able to build strong connections with faculty members. The Honors College fosters a close-knit academic community.
Q: What advice would you give to a future English education major?
My biggest piece of advice for incoming English majors is to make connections with your professors. Visit them during office hours, chat about class topics, and ask for feedback. Don’t be afraid to try something new. Take every opportunity you can, and step outside your comfort zone. Also, take advantage of campus resources like the Academic Success Center.