Student Voices - Undergraduate
Whitney Maxwell
Elementary Education
Class of 2009
Raleigh, North Carolina
My background
As the oldest child in my family, I often played school with my younger sisters and brother while we were growing up in Raleigh. When I became an elementary student myself, I quickly learned to love learning. Later, as a babysitter and a children’s teacher in my church, I became even more aware of how deeply children are influenced by those who teach and care for them.
Why I chose education
I am passionate about children and I want to make an impact on children’s lives in my career. After considering various options, I realized that education is the best path for me to do important work that I enjoy.
Why I chose the UNC School of Education
I knew I wanted to attend UNC-Chapel Hill. When I decided to major in education, I was glad to learn that Carolina has a strong School of Education.
My experience
The School of Education offers a variety of classroom experiences. Through my practicum placements, I have observed a variety of teaching styles across a range of ages. My academic work has provided great course content, not only covering the basics but also teaching us contemporary principles and approaches, and creative ways to think and teach.
How the Willie Hall Kennedy Scholarship has benefited me
I was so grateful to receive the Willie Hall Kennedy Scholarship my junior year. Not only did the generous support from the scholarship cover a significant portion of the cost of my college education, but in addition, I have been inspired by the story of Willie Hall Kennedy and her remarkable influence on so many people throughout her teaching career.
In 10 years
After I gain a few years of experience as a classroom teacher, I want to pursue a graduate degree in school counseling. I care deeply about getting to know my students as people and about their well-being, not just in the classroom but in their families and in society as well. As a teacher and eventually a school counselor, I want to focus on helping students develop their strengths, learn and grow. For me, nothing could be more important or meaningful than that.