Alumni
Matthew Bradley - 2023
After graduating from Trine, I was hired to be a 6th-grade English teacher. I am very grateful for everything that I learned during my time at Trine, especially from all of the amazing professors in the Franks School of Education (FSOE). In my role as a teacher, I rely on things that the FSOE taught me and it is a very good feeling knowing that I am ready to take on the ever-changing world of education.
As I reflect on my time at Trine, I believe that the professors truly cared about me during my time at Trine and appreciate that they took extra time to get to know me not only as a student but as a person. It was a very good feeling knowing that each of my professors (especially those in the FSOE) cared about my education and proved that they wanted me to succeed.
Jenna Neimeyer - 2020
Who or what at Trine significantly influenced your career path?
Every education professor in the FSOE shaped me into the teacher that I am now. Their care and dedication for me taught me how to show up for my students every day. I owe a special "thank you" to Professor Bock, Dr. Kline, Dr. Goddard, Dr. Franzen, and Dr. Tolin - they taught me everything I needed to know to become a teacher students love and remember forever.
Any advice for current students pursuing their degrees?
Enjoy every second of your time at Trine. In your classroom placements, ask questions and participate openly with students. This time in your education is pivotal to your future as a classroom teacher. Don't be afraid to try out your ideas, take risks, or fail - it's all part of learning. Be open to new ideas and new experiences, and take feedback from your professors and clinical educators to help you improve; they all want you to succeed.
Briefly describe your current position and how you reached it.
I am currently teaching fifth-grade English at The Orchard School. My path to getting here was not an easy one. I dreamed of working here since the moment I stepped on campus as a junior in college. They had a job opening my senior year, so I applied and was not selected. However, I had awesome professors at Trine who encouraged me to keep growing and trying, and to be proud of myself for even making it to the final round of interviews, which doesn't happen often for new grads. One year later, I found myself being offered a position; I accepted, and I have not looked back since.
What's a typical day like in your role?
Anyone familiar with Orchard knows there's no such thing as a "typical day," because every single day is different. However, I will do my best to explain. Each morning I begin with a small group of students who make up my advisory. We connect through games, discussion, and play. Each day I teach three periods of English class, and I co-teach three periods of social studies. In the time between, we do exciting things like climbing high-ropes courses, tapping trees to create maple syrup, or writing poetry in nature.
Why did you decide to attend Trine? What drew you to Trine and your chosen major?
I would not have come to Trine if it was not for Dr. Kline. I met him when I was in high school, and he suggested that I check out Trine once I had decided to major in English Education. When I visited campus, I loved the size and the way it felt familiar, even though it was new. I was immediately impressed with the professors and the way that I would be set up for success as a new teacher with countless hours in the classroom before reaching student teaching.
How did you feel Trine did in preparing you for your position?
I would not be a high-caliber teacher without Trine. Every classroom I was placed in taught me something about being the teacher I am now, and every clinical educator I was matched with taught me valuable lessons in classroom management and content. The professors within the FSOE are passionate, caring, and always put their students first. The amount of real-world application I received before even graduating is the reason I was successful and confident as a first-year teacher. I am beyond grateful for my time at Trine and my time within the FSOE.
Anna Koeppl - 2023
Currently, I am teaching 9th and 11th grade at Prairie Heights High School. I was a student teacher during a fall semester looking for something to finish the year, and this job opportunity came right when I was ready to graduate. As I started my first job, I learned that each day is different from the last, and I never know exactly what to expect every morning when I go to school. Trine became my home throughout the four years I attended, and choosing it was the best decision I’ve made in my life. I grew into who I was supposed to be all due to the support and encouragement that the professors surrounded me with. Trust the process and let yourself grow as you navigate your education!