Elementary education major junior, Kayla Ryan, talks about her passion for education and how her work as a literacy mentor helps her engage with youth.

What drove you to enroll in the B.S. in elementary education program?

I’ve always known that I wanted to work with kids in whatever career I chose. I’ve always had jobs with kids. I’ve been a babysitter, a nanny, a tutor, and a camp counselor. Sometimes I find myself looking into different career options, but I can never picture myself in any other profession other than teaching.

What did you hope to get out of your educational experience?

I want to learn strategies to make learning engaging and fun for all students. I think it is so important for students to be interested in what they are learning and see the value in education. It’s very difficult to get all students involved, which is why I want to learn new and creative ways to present material. Ultimately, I believe that if a student is passionate about what they are doing, they are going to be much more successful.

What has been your experience with the faculty?

I’m so happy to be in the College of Education and Human Development. So many of my friends have huge lectures, and I feel fortunate to have such small classes and personal connections with many of my teachers and professors.

How long have you been a literacy mentor with CEHD America Reads?

I have been with the CEHD America Reads program for one semester.

What is the most rewarding part of the job?

My favorite part of going to work is that I get to see and talk to kids who are excited to see me. I look forward to tutoring every time because I always feel like I’m making a difference. And I’m also having a fun time as well.

Do you plan to use any skills you gained as a literacy mentor in your teaching career?

Any experience with kids that I can get will be awesome preparation for a future teaching career. Not only is it great to meet and discuss with other mentors about activity ideas, but also about handling difficult behavior and other situations.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

I would love to teach elementary school somewhere in the Twin Cities after graduation. I love the area and all of the kids that I’ve worked with, and can’t picture myself leaving.

Learn more about the B.S. in elementary education program in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction.