cutting edge undergraduate DARBY STARKS
Elementary education President, Teachers of Tomorrow Hometown: Flowood, Mississippi Teachers of Tomorrow
TOT is an opportunity to connect with people in the same field. We learn a lot from each other, and we work on professional development at meetings. I think this experience helps shape how I will be as a teacher by learning from other people and learning from guest speakers at our meetings.
Personal strengths
I think my biggest strength is that I have struggled as a student in the past. I know what that feels like. I know the importance of catering to that student and working to pull the best out of that student. I know I’ve had teachers who have done that for me and teachers who haven’t. Having that firsthand experience gives me a leg up when working with students who struggle.
Why she teaches
I like the service. I like that every day is different and that I have the opportunity to change or influence. I like that I can provide emotional support for students, but I’m also there for academics.
Her role model
I look up to all teachers but most specifically my mom. She’s been an educator for as long as I can remember, and she really embodies what it means to be a great teacher. She loves her job, and she does it to the fullest. She’s the first one at the school in the morning and the last one to leave. If I can be half the educator that my mom is, then I’ll be a good one.
education edge
8
the university of mississippi school of education annual report