3 minute read
Inspiring the Future
Education Students Pursue Fulfilling Careers
Education students Samuel Sheard and Sean Fuentes are breaking barriers and using their passions to help others.
AN UNLIKELY INSPIRATION
Samuel Sheard’s journey to studying education began in an unlikely place: the drive-through window of a fast-food restaurant. While working, he found himself helping out a customer who only spoke Spanish. Using what little he remembered from high school, Samuel was able to connect with the customer and ensure the correct order was placed.
“It felt good to be able to help, and I realized how important it was to have those language skills,” Samuel said. “I decided I wanted to take Spanish classes at Lake Land and I realized it could be a career.”
FINDING A PASSION
As a Lake Land student, Samuel frequented the College’s Tutoring and Testing Center to help in his Spanish studies. As he learned from tutors, he found himself returning the favor and helping his fellow students with their own homework questions. The experience inspired him to teach, and he now studies to one day become a Spanish teacher and also teach English to non-native adult learners.
“A lot of people think of college as a continuation of high school, but I think of Lake Land more so as an extension of the workplace,” Samuel explained. “Lake Land College will help you succeed in whatever career you want.”
A NATURAL CALLING
For Sean Fuentes, working with children is second nature. He’s always been inspired by the way his mother cared for children, and as an older sibling, he’s had plenty of opportunities to play a nurturing role himself. Sean joined Lake Land in Fall 2024 to pursue a career in child psychology. As a Lake Land student, he’s enjoyed learning in a strong education program and has gained practicum experience in Mattoon at LIFT and Riddle Elementary.
“Everyone here wants to see you succeed,” Sean said. “Whether it’s in the classroom or it’s in your practicum hours, the instructors care about you and want to see you go far.”
MOLDING THE FUTURE
Sean notes that very few men study child psychology, a fact that inspired him to pursue the field. He hopes to offer a unique perspective as a mentor and help guide the next generation toward a successful future.
“I realized I could come in and offer something a little different from what you normally see in this field,” Sean explained. “Kids need all kinds of different role models, and I want to be one of those role models that’ll help mold them into who they’re going to be.”
