Student Voices
EDUC students share their experiences in the College of Education.
Sheyenne Downey
Major: Community Education and Social Change
UMass has truly been a supportive and inspiring place for me, especially within the College of Education. There’s always someone here who’s willing to listen, guide you, or simply be there when you need a conversation. My passion for education was sparked while working at a summer camp for children with special needs. That experience made me want to understand how I could make a lasting impact in the lives of children who often go overlooked in traditional settings.
I currently serve as the Inclusivity Chair for VIBE (Visibility Initiative for BIPOC Educators), a student group that builds community and creates empowering spaces for BIPOC future educators. One of my favorite classes so far has been EDUC 222, Learning Through Games, Play, and Sports. It pushed me to think creatively and helped me develop a coaching-inspired teaching style!
Pierre Ayer
Major: Community Education and Social Change
Changing my major to Community Education and Social Change was daunting at first, but I haven’t looked back since. The transition was made seamless by the supportive faculty, kind community, and capable advisors at the College of Education.
My advice to freshmen is to take advantage of the people around you. Push yourself to make connections with both faculty and peers and you might suddenly find yourself with a new community that can support you and facilitate your growth as an educator. It is also important to push yourself outside your comfort zone with classes. My favorite class I’ve taken so far is EDUC 202, Intergroup Dialogue.
Ollie Hannaford
Major: Early Childhood Education
The Early Childhood Education route has given me so many opportunities. I have met so many
awesome people and have learned
so much. The education department is growing in real time, and it is awesome to join the BIPOC community called VIBE, which opens doors to people that have similar experiences like me. I feel so included and seen in the education department and the staff are understanding and very engaged. I cannot wait to learn more and continue my journey to become a kindergarten teacher. I am so happy that I have the opportunity to grow and meet new people from all backgrounds.
Mia Auguste
Major: Community Education and Social Change, Elementary 4+1 Track
UMass has been such a great experience for me so far. There has been something to do each day, and I have had the chance to meet and talk with new people I wouldn’t normally branch out to at home. One piece of advice I would give to incoming freshmen is to branch out and push yourself out of your normal comfort zone! You never know what new challenges will come your way and that’s the best part when it comes to learning.
The College of Education here at UMass has been nothing but welcoming ever since I switched my major. My favorite class so far has been Education 325: Introduction to Special Education.
Thalia Williams
Major: Community Education and Social Change
Minor: Spanish
Growing up, I always knew teaching was meant for me. As the oldest of six siblings, I naturally stepped into a teaching role early on, as I often tutored my younger brothers. Guiding them has always brought me true happiness, and it’s what sparked my passion for becoming an educator.
Here at UMass, I’ve found opportunities to connect with others who share my passion for teaching. I joined VIBE (Visibility Initiative for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Educators), a new club within the College of Education that creates space for students of color to share experiences and build community. Two classes that have stood out to me the most are EDUC 167: Education and Film and EDUC 270: Child Development. Both classes helped me see the kind of teacher I want to be in the future.
Drew Schermerhorn
Majors: Special Education and Journalism
Adding an Education major was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The advisors and professors in the department made the transition seamless, allowing me to develop a better understanding of the importance of helping people engage with the world.
Now, through exploring the intersections of my separate learnings in Journalism, Special Education, and Public Policy, I look to focus on a career path that applies the teachings in all these professions.
The College of Education introduced so many opportunities in and outside of the classroom, providing me with numerous academic and social resources within a close and welcoming community.
Ruby Harmon
Major: Special Education and Elementary 4+1 Track
Minor: Sociology
The college of education is more than just a place where you take classes, it's a community full of strong, passionate people who want to make a difference in the world through education. You aren’t just another student in these courses. The professors, your peers and the entire college community make you feel valued and supported in everything you do.
One piece of advice I would give to incoming students is to say “yes!” to everything. This campus is so big and full of endless opportunities, so take advantage of it.
A couple of classes that I have loved are EDUC 325 ( Intro to Special Education) and EDUC 405 (Curriculum Development).