- Pronouns:
- he/him
- Major:
- Secondary Education – Life Science/Biology
- Minor/Concentration:
- Education Policy
- Graduation year:
- 2025
- Hometown:
- Spiceland, IN
- Interests/hobbies:
- Listening to podcasts, watching the Colts, playing board games, reading, clogging, working out, and attending concerts
Q&A with Cameron
How has INSPIRE or the School of Education helped you grow as a future teacher?
INSPIRE has really allowed me to grow as a future teacher who is more inclusive and focused on ensuring every child has an equal opportunity. The seminar class provided me with a lot of cool opportunities to visit cultural centers and learn more about the backgrounds from which my students will come from. The formal and informal conversations in INSPIRE also helped me understand ways to be a more effective, inclusive educator.
What has been your favorite experience as a member of the INSPIRE LLC so far?
There are so many experiences that could be my favorite! If I had to pick one, it would be the Chicago trip we took during the second semester of my freshman year. Since it was later in the school year, our community had turned into what felt like my extended family. Exploring downtown Chicago, visiting Cloud Gate, and having INSPIRE family meals were the highlights of my Chicago trip. I always cherished my time with other INSPIRE students, and this trip will be something I always look up to!
What influenced your decision to become a Peer Mentor?
Deciding to become a Peer Mentor was pretty easy for me. The Peer Mentors my freshman year had helped me find a home away from home, so I wanted to do that for future freshmen too! INSPIRE has a lot of awesome opportunities for anyone interested in education, and the people you meet through the program are also wonderful. I have become friends with so many people through INSPIRE, so I wanted to make sure other freshmen had a similar experience!
As someone who was on the fence about joining INSPIRE, I am so glad I did! It has afforded me so many life experiences and memories I will forever hold on to. INSPIRE is a wonderful community, and I would encourage anyone who is interested in education to apply.
What are some responsibilities you have as a Peer Mentor?
Peer Mentors are basically your go-to college guide. We live on the floor and help provide opportunities for everyone to meet each other through fun activities during Welcome Week. We are also there to provide you with guidance during your time at IU as we have gone through the high school to college transition. Finally, we host academic activities called Fireside Chats and Cultural Excursions. These allow you to explore a topic in education or discover more about a culture. Fireside Chats and Cultural Excursions were always either interesting or a lot of fun, which made them very enjoyable to attend.
Do you have any advice for anyone who might be thinking about applying to INSPIRE?
Just do it!!! As someone who was on the fence about joining INSPIRE, I am so glad I did! It has afforded me so many life experiences and memories I will forever hold on to. INSPIRE is a wonderful community, and I would encourage anyone who is interested in education to apply.
What would you say to someone considering joining INSPIRE?
You have made the right choice! This community is truly unique. Everyone cheers each other on, and it makes college life awesome! The floor is vibrant as everyone wants to hang out and explore IU together.