Student Inspired by Her Brother to Work in Special Education

Working in special education is a unique and different field, focused on helping students with disabilities learn. Many who work in special education consider it a calling. Shorter’s School of Education has offered a degree in special education since 2016. Since then, numerous students have graduated and gone on to work in this field of education.

Aspen Sorrels, a junior special education major, is an example of one who displays a true calling in the field of special education. Sorrels felt called into special education because of younger brother Spencer who is on the autism spectrum. Autism Spectrum Disorder can be diagnosed at a fairly early age, and Spencer was diagnosed at the age of two. As a child, Spencer’s parents realized that he did not meet certain required milestones for children his age nor was he exhibiting ones that were supposed to be met later in childhood. Aspen said, “He has given my family so much joy. Throughout my life, Spencer and I have been very close. He was the reason I chose special education. It will always have a huge place in my heart.”

Even though Aspen wanted to major in education, the field of special education was not her first choice. “When I went into education, I did not think I wanted to work in special education,”she said. However, Aspen soon realized that God was calling her to work in special education. “God kept telling me over and over again to major in special education. So, I finally listened to God, submitted to His will, and changed my major. I knew the hardships that came with children who have disabilities, and I truly felt called to work with them,” said Aspen. At Shorter, Aspen has had the unique opportunity to take Spencer into her classes for her classmates to observe and get hands-on experience working with a special education student. Sorrels’ professors and her classmates were so welcoming to her brother. Because of these experiences and the welcoming environment, Aspen felt that both Spencer and the students in the classes benefited from these unique opportunities.

After graduation, Aspen plans to work with special education students in younger grades. While she is not sure where the Lord will lead her, she is solely dependent upon Him. Through all the opportunities she has been given as a special education major at Shorter and her experiences with her brother, Aspen feels thoroughly equipped for the real-world experiences and encounters she will face when teaching special education students.

Along with her brother Spencer, Shorter University broadened Aspen’s horizons and made her realize her need to work in special education. Despite the hardships that come with those who have disabilities, Aspen knew the need that she was called to, accommodating people in this field. The School of Education has allowed Sorrels to pursue her calling to special education while also giving her brother an amazing opportunity to be in classes with her. Her brother has impacted her life and calling greatly, just as the School of Education has made that love grow.

By: Mary Avis Casey