Demaris Johnson changed her major to Elementary Education Foundations when she realized that connecting with children in the classroom was the best way she could make a positive impact in their lives. Through her practicum experience, she found a job that let her grow professionally and prepare for her own classroom.

What drove you to enroll in the program?

I previously attended two other institutions before UMN and when I was looking to leave my last school I saw how amazing the curriculum was for this program and the offering of the grad year was a huge opportunity so I immediately applied.

When did you realize you wanted to be a teacher?

I realized it my freshman year of college when I started a degree in biology and sociology to be a child psychiatrist. I realized It was not the science of it that mattered as much as the connections with children and making an impact. I knew I could make more of an impact with a larger group of children and could work more with the demographic of students I want to be working with.

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

I hope to get a lot of great teaching strategies and make connections at a variety of schools. It is nice being able to work at several different elementary schools in the Minneapolis area.

Were there any surprises and challenges along the way?

My first semester here I was able to do a practicum at a school that actually offered me a part-time job the following year. When I decided to take a year off they actually offered me a full-time job and let me create my own position. That allowed me to cater my job to the areas that I wanted to grow in. I could tell that this school was partnered with UMN for a reason and they really want to help you through all steps of your journey. It has been amazing seeing how the program supports students through their school connections.

What has been your experience with the faculty?

I have had so many amazing professors and instructors. I can tell they all really care about their field and are dedicated to the teaching profession. When I first came to UMN a group of faculty members actually asked to meet with me before school started. They asked me questions and were genuinely interested in me as a student and why I wanted to be a teacher. Everyone has been so supportive.

Do you feel the coursework and student teaching helped you to begin teaching in your own classroom?

Yes, absolutely. I am able to see a wide variety of teaching styles; Nno one tells you exactly what type of teacher to be. They offer suggestions and show their own way and point out important things to remember. I like that everything is not overly structured because it is not going to be that way when we are really teaching.

Learn more about the degree and licensure programs in Elementary Education in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction.