Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2022 graduating students over the coming days.

Major:

Spanish Education

Hometown:

Glastonbury, Connecticut

Micaela Collins’ UConn connection started back when, as a pre-mature baby in the neonatal intensive care unit at St. Francis Hospital, she was visited by the UConn Women’s Basketball team members Morgan Valley and Diana Taurasi. She says though it is a great story, what really drew her to UConn was the Neag School of Education where she will be graduating with a degree in elementary education and a minor in Spanish.

Why did you choose UConn?

I chose to come to the University of Connecticut because of the esteemed education program! I have wanted to be a teacher since I was five years old and UConn provided me with the best opportunity to fulfill that dream. Also, I have always loved watching UConn sports, and it felt like a natural fit for me.

What’s your major and why did you choose it?

I am an elementary education major with a concentration in English and a minor in Spanish. As I said above, I have wanted to be a teacher since I was five years old. I was the kid who spent summer vacation playing school with her old books and teaching her stuffed animals how to add, subtract, read, and write. Therefore, being an elementary education major has been a lifelong dream that I have finally gotten the chance to fulfill. I am a Spanish minor because I have always loved the Spanish language. My grandmother exclusively spoke Spanish when I was little, so I always felt a connection to the language. After high school I wanted to continue to develop my skills, so I decided to add a minor to my coursework, and that was one of the best decisions I made at UConn. The Spanish minor, and the experiences I gained from the coursework, have proven to be useful in my education and future profession.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation I have one more year of school to gain my masters degree. While I plan on spending the first semester of my masters year in London, England, I will be back at UConn for one more semester. After that, I plan to be an elementary school teacher in Connecticut!

What activities were you involved with as a student?

As a student I tried to be involved in many organizations. Some of my favorite organizations to be involved in were the WOW program, Community Outreach, PATH, and Leadership in Diversity. Each opportunity taught me something and has given me something that I will take with me wherever life takes me. WOW taught me how to make connections with people who you are only going to see for a weekend. Community Outreach reaffirmed the importance of volunteering and helped me develop into a more organized leader. PATH gave me the chance to give back to fellow Honors students and share advice based on my experience. Finally, Leadership in Diversity has provided me with the opportunity to grow individually and professionally through all of the work that I have been able to do with that organization. While all of these organizations have taught me so much more than I could include in one paragraph, the above sentences are some of the main takeaways that I will take from my time in these organizations.

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

UConn has prepared me for the next chapter in my life in more ways that I can count. UConn has taught me the importance of hard work, determination, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone. From classes, to finding things to get involved in, each and every experience at UConn has prepared me for the next chapter in my life.

“UConn has taught me the importance of hard work, determination, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone.”

What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

The community! Although UConn is a huge campus, it rarely feels like that. Any time you are on campus, you will see someone wearing the blue and white and will be greeted with a smile. You really can make this 18,000 person campus feel like a place where you belong!

Any advice for incoming first-year students?

Get involved!!! One of the biggest pieces of advice that I always give incoming first-year students is to find their people. It can be in sports, volunteering, or even the moon appreciation club! It really helps ensure that UConn becomes as much like a second home as it can be. I would also say to enjoy your time here because it really does fly by! These four years have flown by even faster than high school.

What’s one thing every student should do during their time at UConn?

Every student should try to go to at least one basketball game in the student section. That atmosphere will really make you believe that we are the basketball capital of the world. Also, make sure to try as many Dairy Bar flavors as possible!!

Who was your favorite professor and why?

It is hard to pick a favorite professor! I have had the pleasure of being able to learn from so many amazing professors, but if I had to pick one I would say that the professors in the Neag School are unlike any other professor here at UConn. They are some of the most supportive, knowledgeable, and approachable people on campus. If you have any desire to be a teacher, I would highly recommend asking any of the professors in the Neag School of Education to sit down for a chat.

What’s one thing that will always make you think of UConn?

The name Jonathan will forever belong to Jonathan the Husky!

Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2022 graduating students over the coming days.

Major:

Sport Management

Hometown:

Lexington, Massachusetts

Why did you choose UConn?

I chose UConn because from the minute I first stepped on campus, I could feel the energy and love that people have for this university. It was a feeling that made me know I wanted to come to school here. Add to that the spirit for UConn Athletics and the opportunity to get involved with the Athletics department, and I knew UConn was the right fit.

What’s your major and why did you choose it? 

I’m a sport management major, and I chose it because I have not only loved watching sports my whole life, but I’ve had a passion for getting involved with them on a deeper level. From sports media to inclusive sports to officiating, I have always been interested in working in sports, understanding what goes on in the sport industry, and engaging with sports in various ways.

What are your plans after graduation?

I am hoping to work in sports media! I would love to be on-air one day, but until then, I just want to be involved in sports media.

What activities were you involved with as a student?

During my very first week at UConn, I joined UCTV. UCTV is the student television station on campus. After that, I joined the sports department, where I’ve covered UConn Athletics both in Storrs and across the country. I’ve interviewed so many coaches and players, developed a strong professional network, and met my best friends! I am also a part of the SUBOG Sports Committee as a vice-chair, and I broadcast some basketball games for WHUS during my senior year! Before COVID, I was involved with UConn’s Special Olympics chapter.

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

UConn has given me many real-world opportunities that have prepared me for the next chapter in life. It has been a place where I have been challenged, learned to problem solve, and been supported by peers, teachers, and mentors who care about my success. I feel ready to step into a job and do meaningful, impactful work because of my experiences here in Storrs.

“UConn has given me many real-world opportunities that have prepared me for the next chapter in life.”

What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

It is the vast array of opportunities you have to do cool things. During my time at UConn, I have traveled to and covered two women’s Final Fours, two UConn Football games, two weekend-long Men’s Basketball tournaments, a sports media conference, a conference media day, and more. All of this for free! These have all been through UCTV and WHUS, well-funded campus organizations that provide opportunities to do some extremely cool things. UConn’s resources to support student success and adventure have been surprising and awesome.

Any advice for incoming first-year students?

Get involved! Don’t hesitate because you feel you won’t fit in as a first-year. One of my favorite aspects of my early years at UConn is that people don’t care what grade you are in! If you put yourself out there, you will fit right in. Also, if you find out you don’t like an activity you are involved in, don’t be afraid to step away! There are so many other places and groups you can be involved with that could be more meaningful.

What’s one thing every student should do during their time at UConn?

Wait in line multiple hours before a UConn basketball game and be in the front row!

Who was your favorite professor and why?

I have two – so I am cheating. The first is Professor Doug Glanville, who taught my junior year Sport in Society course. Professor Glanville encouraged a new lens of critical thinking, pushing me to change how I thought of sports. He shared testimony from his playing days in the MLB and offered brilliant insight into important topics. He also started a show with me for UCTV! It’s called Beyond the Play, and we aim to discuss connections between sports and social issues and bring it to the UConn community. The second professor is Rory McGloin. He taught my first-year public speaking class, which instilled so much confidence in me. It was a challenging class. There was lots of writing, and I was nervous to deliver speeches, and gained critical feedback. But I grew so much and have no fear of speaking in front of big groups now! Rory and I co-taught a first-year seminar the following year, which was a neat full-circle moment!

What’s one thing that will always make you think of UConn?

Watching UConn basketball. Some of my fondest moments came from UConn games – storming the court at the XL Center after a win over Villanova, selfies with Coach Hurley after big wins, or calling the UConn Women’s Team in the Final Four during my senior year. Watching the Huskies will always bring me fond thoughts about UConn!

 

Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2022 graduating students over the coming days.

Major:

Mathematics Education

Hometown:

Danbury, Connecticut

Why did you choose UConn?

I chose UConn because of the amazing environment I first experienced on Admitted Students Day. It was incredible to witness, and I knew that this was my school. I wanted to be a part of a community close, spirited, and engaging community, and this school has provided everything like that for me. This community provided so many different opportunities that allowed me to grow as a leader and person. I have stepped outside of my comfort zone and have been rewarded in the form of many lifelong friendships and memorable experiences. I am so grateful I chose UConn as my school and community for the past four years.

What’s your major and why did you choose it? 

I have pursued a dual degree in Mathematics and Secondary Mathematics Education. I chose these majors because I love helping others—standing in front of the classroom and helping inspire the future generation has always been a passion of mine. I am excited to get students to feel excited about math or understand where the numbers are coming from and why you need to complete the steps to get an answer. I have always been passionate about being a teacher and helping others. Still, it became solidified when I was student teaching every day and engaging with the students and seeing their growth. I cannot wait to see what else the future holds.

What are your plans after graduation?

I have accepted my admission to UConn and am returning to complete my master’s year for the IB/M program at the Neag School of Education. I look forward to getting started on my Inquiry and Research project and knowing more about what it means to be a leader in the school.

What activities were you involved with as a student?

As a student, I am president of the UConn Future Educators Club, the youth development and education for adolescents coordinator for Community Outreach, the Let’s Talk Leadership Program coordinator, and the treasurer for the Teacher Education Student Association. I was also a morale captain for HuskyTHON, a WOW leader and WOW captain, a participant in numerous programs in Community Outreach, and a facilitator for the Leadership Certificate Series.

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

UConn has given me real-life experiences that have truly prepared me for the next chapter of my life. I feel as though I possess more knowledge than I have ever before regarding my majors, teaching, and life experiences. I have grown as a leader in feeling more comfortable speaking in front of others. I used to be so nervous when someone would ask me to come up to the front of the classroom and speak in front of everyone. However, the more I practiced, and the more people allowed me to speak in front of others, the more comfortable I became with my leadership and public speaking skills. UConn has prepared me for going outside my comfort zone, and I feel more prepared than ever before for the next chapter of my life.

“UConn has prepared me for going outside my comfort zone, and I feel more prepared than ever before for the next chapter of my life.”

What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

One thing that surprised me about UConn was that many of the professors that I had seemed to want to help me. In high school, I often heard that I would be on my own and that the professors at college wouldn’t be there to help me. However, that is not the case at UConn. Professors constantly mention their extra help hours and say that if you do not understand some of the materials, you should go to extra help hours, and they will help you. The professors at UConn have always been so helpful and consistently showed that they want to help and want you to succeed in their class.

Any advice for incoming first-year students?

My advice for first-year students is to try new things outside of their comfort zones. This is the best way to meet new people and come across new ideas, but is also important for growing as a person.

What’s one thing every student should do during their time at UConn?

One thing every student should do during their time at UConn is participate in as many UConn-sponsored events as possible! The athletics games are amazing, and the spirit is unlike any school I have ever seen. Oozeball is so much fun, and the muddy trek back to your dorm is all just part of the fun. HuskyTHON is one of the most inspiring and impactful experiences I have ever participated in. So many of these events are what shape UConn to be UConn.

Who was your favorite professor and why?

My favorite professor is Megan Staples. She has helped me and is always there whenever I need a guiding hand, advice, or a math joke. She is motivating and inspires me to find the “why” in my work and to dig deeper into the concepts of math than I normally would have. She is the most amazing professor and faculty advisor. Without her help, I would not be at the same level of understanding students’ thinking, asking higher-order thinking questions, and understanding many different foundational aspects of mathematics that I did not know in my primary school years.

What’s one thing that will always make you think of UConn?

One thing that will always make me think of UConn is ice cream because no ice cream is superior to the Dairy Bar.

Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2022 graduating students over the coming days.

Major:

Mathematics Education

Hometown:

Easton, Connecticut

Why did you choose UConn?

I chose UConn because I felt from my first time walking on Campus that UConn was the place for me. In 2017, I remembered I came to Storrs as a high school student to shadow a Husky for the day, and it was a torrential downpour. I was with my mom, and we had no idea how to get to the Student Union from the North Parking Garage. We could barely see the map, and a UConn student went out of her way to stop and ask if we needed help in the pouring rain. This moment illustrates the strong sense of community you feel when you walk onto UConn’s campus. No matter what, there’s always someone to help you if you need it!! The choice to be a part of Husky Nation was the best decision I made in my entire life.

What’s your major and why did you choose it? 

I am currently a master’s student studying mathematics education in the Neag School of Education’s IB/M Program. This five-year program will enable me to teach mathematics for grades 7-12. I chose this major because of the influential role models in my life that have helped me to become the person I am today. The opportunity to serve my community and help my students achieve their goals and aspirations would be a privilege to be a part of! I also think mathematics is such a beautiful and important area of study. Mathematics plays such a pivotal role in many other disciplines that I look forward to engaging in productive discussions on the realness of math in the world today with my future students! Neag School’s incredible faculty, staff, and students have been incredible supports to me as I begin my journey as a professional in education!

What are your plans after graduation?

I am currently applying for open secondary mathematics teaching positions at the middle school and high school levels around the state of Connecticut. In the short term, I am looking forward to serving as the parent staff coordinator for the 2022 UConn – Storrs Campus Orientation Parent Program this upcoming summer.

What activities were you involved with as a student?

I served as the student manager for the UConn Women’s Basketball team for three years. It was the thrill of a lifetime to work alongside some of the country’s best coaches, players, and professional support staff. I have also worked for UConn – Storrs Orientation Services for four years. From 2019 to 2022, I have worked in several different positions, such as the new student orientation team, the parent staff orientation team, the new student coordinator, and the parent staff coordinator. I am so glad to have the opportunity to welcome the incoming Huskies to campus and show them all that awaits them for their year(s) in Storrs. It was also amazing to be involved with Earthtones and Voices of Freedom vocal ensembles on campus.

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

In terms of academics, UConn’s Neag School of Education has enabled me to work in many different classrooms since my junior year with some amazing teachers and professional staff that prepared me to take on the next phase of my life as a teacher. In addition, I have had the amazing opportunity to work with some of the top faculty in education. I am grateful for the time I have had to learn from great professors and fellow Neag School pre-service teachers. Another important way UConn has prepared me for the next chapter of my life is through the amazing life-long relationships that I have formed during my five years in Storrs. I have such a great support system that truly helps me be the best version of myself. I have so much love for all the people I have gotten to connect with during my time at UConn. These relationships will be pivotal as I navigate my first year as a math teacher!

“UConn’s Neag School of Education has enabled me to work in many different classrooms with some amazing teachers and professional staff that prepared me to take on the next phase of my life as a teacher.”

What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn

I was completely surprised by how far-reaching the pride for UConn and Husky Nation is. No matter where I go, I can guarantee that I will run into someone who has attended UConn, loves Husky Nation, and shows their Husky spirit. It’s amazing to see the love that we have for our school. I am not afraid to say that UConn has the best fans, alumni network, and supporters in the world!! I look forward to being one of those alums that share their Husky spirit with my fellow Huskies past, future, and present.

Any advice for incoming first-year students?

Don’t be afraid to go outside your comfort zone and try new things!! This is your time of life to learn more about yourself and put yourself out there. While academics are super important, don’t forget to make time to connect with new people, get involved, and explore your interests and hobbies. Your education, social life, and involvement are all three equally important aspects of your college experience. Don’t forget to make time for experiences in all three of those areas.

What’s one thing every student should do during their time at UConn?

I am probably biased, but make sure to head to Gampel Pavilion to catch our Men’s and Women’s basketball teams in action. There is nothing like being in the student section, watching our teams play in “the world’s basketball capital!!”

Who was your favorite professor and why?

My two favorite professors are Megan Staples, associate professor of mathematics education, and Mary Ellen Junda, professor of music. These two figures have played pivotal roles into my maturation to the student and teacher I am today!! Their unwavering support of me in all my endeavors has helped me in so many ways! I cannot thank them enough for all they have done for me. I am truly grateful for having the opportunity to learn from them during my time in Storrs. Anyone would be lucky to be able to learn from and get to know these great leaders at our university. Thank you for all that you do for the UConn community.

What’s one thing that will always make you think of UConn?

I have gotten to know and learn from the amazing people for these past five years. I have created life-long friendships/relationships that will always remind me of UConn. Without UConn, I would not have had the opportunity to meet some of the most amazing people!! Thanks, UConn!!!

 

Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2022 graduating students over the coming days.

Major:

Special Education

Hometown:

East Hartford, Connecticut

Why did you choose UConn?

I chose UConn because of the IB/M program that the Neag School offers. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in four years and my master’s degree in one. Basketball is also my favorite sport, and what better than to go to school in the basketball capital of the world!

What’s your major and why did you choose it? 

My major is educational psychology. I chose this major because I have been around individuals with special needs. My mother has been involved in many different programs for individuals with special needs, so I followed in her footsteps and started to volunteer as well. Each time I would attend, my love for the community grew, and I knew that I wanted to center my career on creating an inclusive environment for those with special needs.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to start my career as a special education teacher.

What activities were you involved with as a student?

UConn HARTS, Community Outreach, UConn Future Educators, UConn Intramural Sports, Husky Sport, Student Ambassadors, Hartathon, and NAMI.

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

The Neag School gave me plenty of opportunities to teach in schools to further push my passion for teaching. In addition, I was able to have opportunities in many different learning environments to choose which environment would fit me best.

“The Neag School gave me plenty of opportunities to teach in schools to further push my passion for teaching.”

What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

One thing that surprised me about UConn is how I can still get lost on campus after five years.

Any advice for incoming first-year students?

My advice for incoming first-year students is to be comfortable being uncomfortable!

What’s one thing every student should do during their time at UConn?

Participate in an alternative break trip through Community Outreach. I met some of my best friends on those trips, and each trip was eye-opening.

Who was your favorite professor and why?

My favorite professor is, hands down, Tracy Sinclair. She was my professor during the first semester we were in lockdown, and she worked so hard to make the semester somewhat normal and fun even though we were stuck at home! She is always a phone call, text, or email away whenever I need help or wants to rant.

What’s one thing that will always make you think of UConn?

All of my broken umbrellas were because of the wind.

Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2022 graduating students over the coming days.

Major:

Special Education

Hometown:

North Franklin, Connecticut

Why did you choose UConn?

I knew that the Neag School of Education had a nationally recognized teacher prep program. Additionally, the special education program is filled with top faculty in their fields of research, and I was so excited to learn from their expertise. Not only did I attend for the academics, but I knew that in Storrs, I could be free to challenge myself through my extracurriculars.

What’s your major and why did you choose it?

I have a bachelor’s in special education and am currently in the final semester of earning my master’s in educational psychology. I decided to enter the field of special education for multiple reasons. First, after my involvement in Unified Sports Club and classes at my high school, I wanted to become part of the next generation of educators that could support students with disabilities with individualized and appropriate education. Learning about the laws, court decisions, and development of educational rights in the United States within my program has not only led to intellectually stimulating conversations in classes. Still, it has motivated my further exploration of education.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to teach in a Connecticut school district as a special education teacher.

What activities were you involved with as a student?

As an undergraduate and graduate student, I have participated in many clubs and activities. Any that piqued my interest, I joined. I met many of my close friends as a freshman in the Street Performers Club. I was the vice president of the Yarn Crafts Club. I was also a member of the UConn Future Educators and American Sign Language (ASL) clubs. I even participated in the Huskython Dance Marathon for three years. During the basketball season, you could also find me in the student section cheering on the Women’s and Men’s teams in Gampel. I spent most of my time involved with the Student Union Board of Governors (SUBOG). I was a member of all committees (Concert, Outreach, Films, Sports, Major Weekends, Special Events, and Comedy). I was a vice-chair of marketing for two years and one of the dance representatives for the SUBOG Huskython team. From my involvement with SUBOG, I was fortunate enough to have a lot of amazing experiences, from meeting comedians like Pete Davidson to organizing large events like Homecoming, sports trips, Food Truck Festival, and so many more!

I have also had a job on campus for the past ten semesters as an audio-visual technician at the Student Union. As a graduate student, I am the A/V training manager, creating and implementing training programs for newly hired technicians.

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

UConn has provided me with opportunities to explore my interest, knowledge, and perspective. The University truly has a global outreach with folks from all walks of life and backgrounds. As a result, I feel more equipped to effectively communicate and collaborate with individuals. As someone going into the education field, I have a diverse set of skills thanks to the clinic, internship, and student teaching experiences I have endured. In my placements, I’ve seen multiple settings, age groups, student populations, teaching styles, and even how to teach in person, virtual, and both simultaneously. With the COVID-19 Pandemic, I have witnessed firsthand how it has and will continue to impact students and educators alike, leading to an even greater motivation to enter the workforce upon graduation.

“As someone going into the education field, I have a diverse set of skills thanks to the clinic, internship, and student teaching experiences I have endured.”

What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

One thing that surprised me about UConn is the overall sense of community. Regardless of the activity or where I was on campus, I could always walk into a space and feel welcome. Starting a simple conversation with someone in a class, club, or event has helped me meet so many friends. Finding not only my own smaller community on campus was so vital to the college experience, but the greater UConn community is supportive throughout.

Any advice for incoming first-year students?

Don’t limit yourself to the possibilities. If I did not join certain clubs, volunteer, jobs, attend classes, etc., my college experience would be vastly different. Don’t get discouraged from the possibility of new experiences, and find what interests or motivates you. If you cannot find your interest in an already established club or organization, make one yourself!

What’s one thing every student should do during their time at UConn?

Do something outside of your comfort zone.

Who was your favorite professor and why?

There are so many wonderful professors that I’ve had. However, one that has specifically impacted me is Linda Pelletier. I took all of her interpreting between English and American Sign Language courses. She provides lots of practice with constructive feedback during class. She also expresses the importance of maintaining not only the interpreting skills, language development, and involvement with the Deaf community beyond the classroom.

What’s one thing that will always make you think of UConn?

All the friends and people I’ve met throughout.