Student Voices - Undergraduate
Kelly Burns
Child Development and Family Studies
Class of 2009
Wilmington, North Carolina
My background
My parents are both educators, and even after decades of teaching, they still love what they do. In high school, I became a camp counselor, babysitter and classroom volunteer. I loved all of these experiences, and it didn't take long for me to realize that I wanted to be a teacher as well.
Why I chose the UNC School of Education
I feel that children have a unique sense of wonder and an innate joy for the simple things in life. Being involved in early childhood education gives me the opportunity to nurture that wonder and joy in children from the start. I want to provide a good foundation for children that will support them for their whole lives.
My experience
The small class sizes are very beneficial; they really give me the chance to grow close to my instructors and fellow students. I have also had the opportunity to pursue other interests, like autism research, while taking courses in my program. My student teaching experiences have exposed me to many different facets of early childhood education, and I became fascinated with areas that I had previously overlooked. I have had a great experience overall.
My inspiration
My collaborating teacher, Tenisha Williamson of Seawell Elementary School in Chapel Hill, has been a great source of inspiration for me. Her love for teaching really shines through in everything she does. She creates a very positive and nurturing environment for her students. It is so much fun to teach with her every day.
In 10 years
I hope to be a Pre-Kindergarten teacher of English as a Second Language in North Carolina.