Student Voices - Post-Baccalaureate
Courtney Johnson
Middle Grades Licensure Only
Class of 2009
Coral Springs, Florida
My background
After graduating from Florida State University with a B.A. in communication, I worked in politics as an events coordinator for four years.
Why I chose education
Education has shaped so much of my life. Although I enjoyed my work in politics, I felt a pull back into the classroom. I have always enjoyed children and young people, and I dreamed of a career where I could make an impact on the lives of others. Teaching social studies is a perfect fit for me.
Why I chose the UNC School of Education
I chose the UNC School of Education because of the flexibility of the licensure only program. Throughout my time here, I’ve been able to work full-time while taking classes.
My experience
All the instructors in my program are extraordinary. Not only have they given me knowledge, but they have also provided an incredible amount of support. I feel that they genuinely care about every one of their students and want to see us all succeed. My cohort is like my family and I’m so glad that we are able to go through this experience together.
Student life
Having a full-time job and commuting to classes sometimes makes me feel removed from campus. To offset this feeling of distance, I have taken as many of my content courses as possible on campus. My History of North Carolina course allowed me to appreciate the influential people and events at UNC-Chapel Hill that have shaped the state’s history.
My favorite part of teaching
There are so many reasons I love teaching! Among the top reasons are my students. I’ve found that middle school students are some of the funniest and most interesting people. Every day with them is different from the one before. I also love that teaching is a career where I can be creative and constantly challenged.
My inspiration
Throughout my experience, two people in particular have inspired me. One is Dr. Suzanne Gulledge who is one of the most intelligent people I’ve ever met. She cares so much for all her students and always gives 110 percent. I feel so grateful for her help and support and I wish I had as much energy as she does!
The other person who inspires me is Nancy Kindem, the teacher in whose classroom I am student teaching. When I watch her teach, I am in awe of her. She manages the classroom so well and uses many creative approaches to teaching. She has been teaching for years and still loves what she does.
In 10 years
In 10 years, I hope to have a family and a career in education that is both challenging and inspiring. I would like to have achieved National Board Certification as well. I’m not sure if I will spend the rest of my life in the classroom—I’m open to the idea of other careers in education as well.