Student Voices - Undergraduate
Justyn Knox
Middle Grades Education
Class of 2005
Williamston, North Carolina
My background
Prior to receiving my bachelor’s degree from UNC-Chapel Hill, I attended Jamesville High School in Martin County, North Carolina. I am now in my second year of teaching at Carrington Middle School in Durham, where I teach eighth-grade North Carolina history.
Why I chose education
I chose education as a career because I have a deep commitment to children. I love helping others and through teaching I have the opportunity to help numerous children each day.
Why I chose the UNC School of Education
I chose to apply to the UNC School of Education because of its commitment to providing a quality education. Not only does it provide excellent classroom instruction, but it also gives hands-on field experience that truly prepares you to enter the classroom.
My experience
My experience in the Middle Grades program was excellent. Dr. Suzanne Gulledge was my instructor and the director of the Middle Grades program. She provided us with excellent opportunities and experiences to prepare us for teaching careers. The program consistently focused on how to develop critical thinking skills in students, which has been essential in my teaching career. North Carolina schools’ main focus is on getting students to think on higher levels, and my education at UNC has enabled me to help students with this process.