- Major:
- Teaching All Learners
- Graduation year:
- 2020
- Hometown:
- Northfield, IL
Q&A with Talia
What was your experience of being on the floor as a freshman?
I really enjoyed living on the floor as a freshman. It was kind of like having built-in friends. For the first day of the School of Education orientation, we walked up together, which was really nice.
Did it help with your transition?
It did. Most of my friends were from the floor so it was nice to be able to walk out of my room and see all my friends.
What has been your favorite experience on the floor so far?
Interviewing the Fulbright Scholars. It was a really cool experience to interview them and learn how Education systems are different from or similar to each other.
How has INSPIRE influenced your ideas about your career?
I have always wanted to be a teacher and now from attending seminars and listening to other teachers, I have come to realize the kind of environment I want in my classroom. I have also taken advantage of Professional Development opportunities that I would otherwise not have had the opportunity to be involved with.
From attending seminars and listening to other teachers, I have come to realize the kind of environment I want in my classroom. I have also taken advantage of Professional Development opportunities that I would otherwise not have had the opportunity to be involved with.
What influenced your decision to come back as a peer leader?
The really positive experience I had on the floor as a freshman inspired me to come back as a peer leader and share my positive experience with others.What has been your experience so far of being a peer leader?You get to help others by sharing your past experiences. It's different from being a freshman because they are still transitioning, while you already have.
Do you hold any other leadership positions on campus?
I do. I am an executive board member of the Student Council for Exceptional Children. For Hillel, the Jewish home on campus, I am the Vice President of programming and help to plan events.
What has been your experience so far of being a peer leader?
You get to help others by sharing your past experiences. It's different from being a freshman because they are still transitioning, while you already have.
What skills does a Peer Leader need to have?
You need to know and understand that there will be difficult times. You have to be someone who is encouraging, supportive of, and friendly with others.
What are some of your responsibilities?
Setting a good example. Also, you need to encourage others to try their best.
Is it time-consuming?
It does take some time but it is not overwhelming. If you are passionate then it does not feel like a lot of time.
Do you have any advice for future INSPIRE applicants?
If you are looking for a welcoming environment and opportunities for Professional Development, then you should apply to INSPIRE.