- Major:
- TAL (Elementary and Special Education), minor in education policy
- Graduation year:
- 2023
- Hometown:
- Washington, D.C.
- Interests/hobbies:
- Figure skating, baking, listening to music, hanging out with friends and family
Q&A with Grace
How has INSPIRE or the School of Education helped you grow as a future teacher?
I think that being around so many other aspiring teachers in INSPIRE and within the School of Education helps me see new perspectives and gives me the ability to dive deeply into my own teaching philosophies. Being in INSPIRE specifically also pushes me to always work hard and gives me a strong community that wants to see my succeed.
What has been your favorite experience as a member of the INSPIRE LLC so far?
I have been so thankful for the amazing community within INSPIRE from the faculty to all of the students I've met. Coming from further away I didn't know a single person from IU coming in my first year, but INSPIRE immediately gave me a community and I instantly felt at home. I love all the events we have been able to hold on INSPIRE, but I know what really completes them is the wonderful people in this community.
What influenced your decision to become a Peer Leader?
I really loved the community in INSPIRE and I felt like they really supported me throughout my entire first year and I wanted to be part of that community again. My goal was, and is, to be a positive influence on everyone on the floor, especially those in their first year of college. I remember feeling very anxious entering college, but immediately feeling at home within the INSPIRE community, so I wanted to have the opportunity to help others who may be going through something similar.
If you're hoping to meet new people and make friends quickly, INSPIRE is the best place to do that. I think that joining INSPIRE was one of the best decisions that I made when committing to IU and I will forever be grateful for this community.
What are some of the responsibilities you have as a Peer Leader?
As a Peer Leader I feel that my biggest job is just being there for first year INSPIRE students to answer any questions they may have and help them through any challenges they may be facing. I also helped plan events for Welcome Week, lead fireside chats, and lead cultural excursions for members of the floor.
Do you have any advice for anyone who might be thinking about applying to INSPIRE?
If anyone is contemplating applying for INSPIRE I definitely would recommend doing so. There are some short written responses required, but it's nothing too stressful and it's definitely worth it.
What would you say to someone considering joining INSPIRE?
I would recommend INSPIRE to everyone considering joining. It's an amazing community and gives you access to a lot of resources and conversations with real teachers. Especially if you're hoping to meet new people and make friends quickly, INSPIRE is the best place to do that. I think that joining INSPIRE was one of the best decisions that I made when committing to IU and I will forever be grateful for this community.