Abigail Heeney
Major: Elementary Education Major & Psychology Minor
Hometown: Fort Mill, SC
Position: President
Background: Hi, my name is Abigail Heeney, and I am a junior from Fort Mill, SC! I've loved every part of the College of Education so, and I am excited to serve as president on the board this year. I can't wait to see what all we accomplish.
Along with USAB, I am involved in Clemson's Teaching Fellows program and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes on campus. I also love volunteering with the kid's ministry at my church and Youth Commission International! In my free time, I love to hike, paint, and spend time with friends.
Why I want to teach: I have a BIG heart for students, and ever since the third grade, I have wanted to be a teacher! I have had the opportunity to have such amazing teachers who encouraged me to pursue my passions and love learning. During high school, I volunteered at my church and at multiple camps with elementary-aged children, and I loved every second of it! Taking the Teacher Cadet course and seeing the profession from behind the scenes confirmed that teaching was the right career for me. I hope to positively impact my future students as my past teachers did for me. I aspire to create a classroom environment where each student knows they are appreciated and cared for as they grow in their learning! Working with youth is genuinely one of the greatest things that bring me joy, and I am so thankful to pursue a career that allows me to teach the next generation.
Goals & Aspirations: After I graduate from Clemson in 2024, I hope to be a part of Clemson's Teacher Residency program and earn my Master's degree! From there, I plan to teach in an elementary school in the state. I cannot wait to see what the future brings for the rest of my college years and my career!
Holliane Belford
Major: Secondary Education & English
Hometown: Greer, SC
Position: Vice President/Secretary
Background: Hi everyone! My name is Holliane Belford and I am so excited to serve the College of Education Undergraduate Student Advisory Board as the Vice President/Secretary for 2023! Along with being involved in USAB, I am part of Clemson’s first cohort of South Carolina Teaching Fellows, I am the Loyalty Circle Chairwoman for my sorority, and I work as a coordinator for Clemson’s America Reads program. When I'm not busy with school, I love to read, paint, and hang out with friends!
Why I want to teach: I decided to become a teacher during my senior year of high school when I took Teacher Cadet. Through the Teacher Cadet program, I was able to work in a 5th grade inclusion classroom and it was always the highlight of my day to be able to watch the students grow in their knowledge. I had been debating between pursuing a career in education or nursing, but those memories and bonds I formed with the 5th graders really solidified for me in my mind what I was called to do in my life. While I loved the time I got to spend working in the elementary school, I want to teach high school so that I am able to help build up my students to be successful adults in society and I can prepare them for whatever lies ahead in their lives after graduation. While I know not all of my future students will love English as much as I do, I hope to help them to find a new appreciation for literature and push them to be able to succeed in my class.
Goals & Aspirations: After I graduate with my Bachelor’s degree, I hope to be accepted into Clemson’s Teacher Residency program and earn my Master’s degree. After I have pursued my own educational goals, I want to teach high school English somewhere in South Carolina. I’d love to get to work with inclusion students and/or students from lower-income backgrounds.
Andrea Chavez
Major: Elementary Education
Hometown: Greenville, SC
Position: Treasurer
Background: Hi! My name is Andrea and I am an Elementary Education major. I am from Greenville, SC and I work at Primrose School of Simpsonville at Five Forks. I am also part of a Creative Inquiry at Clemson, which has increased my interest in the research aspect of education.
Why I want to teach: I love being around kids and a good education is needed to help our future leaders succeed in our world. Being part of any kids life is very rewarding and I can’t wait to have my own classroom!
Goals & Aspirations: I would like to stay for a 5th year at Clemson to get my masters in Elementary Education. Then, I plan to get a job as a 2nd grade teacher. I have interest in administration, as well as research, so we’ll see which one I choose!
Makae Curtis
Major: Special Education
Hometown: Verona, WI
Position: Inclusion and Equity Chair
Background: I am involved in Clemson Life here and Best Buddies and I absolutely love it. I love being involved in things that make me feel more a part of this amazing Clemson community. I love to hangout with my friends and find fun new spots to explore around campus! A fun fact about me is that even though I'm from the north I don't like the cold at all!
Why I want to teach: I want to teach because I want to inspire and shape the next generation. I want to see the work that I’m doing right in front of me. I want to visualize the change and progress of my students, and the impact I’m making on others. You can’t do that sitting at a desk job. As a teacher I want to be someone who kids can go to, whenever. I want to be a teacher who fosters community and belonging. I want to inspire students to want to be better students and better human beings. I feel like I need more experience in a classroom. Sometimes you need to see how things affect/change your life before you fully understand how and why they affect and change your life.
Goals & Aspirations: After graduation I would ultimately love to teach abroad for a few years and teach Special Education. I would eventually like to come back and teach closer to my family after teaching abroad for a few years. I also am maybe going to minor in ASL so I'd love to really incorporate that in my teaching as well!
Alyson Kaplan
Major: Elementary Education Major & Athletic Leadership Minor
Hometown: Westchester, NY
Position: Internal Affairs Chair
Background: Hi everyone! I am from NY and LOVE a good bagel!! I am an Emergency Medical Technician here at Clemson, which is one of my favorite things! I love playing with my dogs and being around my family and friends, especially hiking with them!
Why I want to teach: I want to teach because I love learning! I want to share my love of learning with future generations!
Goals & Aspirations: After college I hope to become a gym teacher! I love being active and sports and am hoping to continue my passion! I also would love to become a paramedic at some point!
Kat Knight
Major: Middle Level Education - Language Arts & Social Studies
Hometown: New Berlin, WI
Position: Communications Chair
Background: Hi! My name is Kat and I’m a Middle Level Education major, focused specifically on Language Arts and Social Studies. I’m from New Berlin, Wisconsin, which is about 20 minutes outside of Milwaukee. Clemson has been a dream come true and has allowed me to get involved in ways such as being a member of Delta Zeta and being apart of a community service committee. In my free time I love to spend time with friends and family, go to the beach, or chill in my hammock. Teaching has always been a passion of mine, especially within the middle school age group. I used to volunteer at my church as a mentor for middle schoolers which helped to grow my perspective and tools for communicating. With that, I am excited and can’t wait for all the wonderful opportunities in USAB!
Why I want to teach: I want to teach in order to have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of students. I want to be a support system for them of encouragement and preparation for the future. I want to provide students with not only the foundational educational skills, but also encourage positive social interactions with peers. Teaching is a great way to inspire students and help shape generations to come!
Goals & Aspirations: After graduation, I would like to enroll in the Teacher Residency Program at Clemson and get my Masters degree. I am also looking into a Spanish minor in which I could possibly travel abroad and be able to teach both English and Spanish! My goal is to have my own classroom and create wonderful memories for students!
Ellen Mattera
Major: Elementary Education Major & Legal Studies and Mathematical Sciences Minor
Hometown: Gloucester, MA
Position: Service Chair
Background: Throughout high school and my first two years at college, I have sought out opportunities to engage with education--from TAing to tutoring to teaching dance. This, and prior work with kids through service trips, teaching, etc. has pushed me to this career.
Why I want to teach: Teaching provides a unique ability to be in children's lives that I look forward to. Being there when a student finally understands something, and their eyes fill with light, is something almost magical to me.
Goals & Aspirations: In my time teaching, I hope to remain in the South, teaching at the elementary school level. I will specialize in mathematical sciences but hope to teach every subject at the 2nd-4th grade level. Eventually, I hope to complete law school to supplement my teaching work and pour back into the communities where I have worked. Can't wait to get started in this profession, and USAB grants me the opportunity to do so!
Emily Tomlinson
Major: Secondary Education & History
Hometown: Anderson, SC
Position: External Relations Chair
Background: Hey y'all! I am from Anderson, South Carolina. Living so close to campus, Clemson has always been my dream school. The education programs here at Clemson are amazing and I truly could not picture myself anywhere else! Outside of USAB, I am involved in Clemson's Teaching Fellows program and I also work on campus within Human Resources. Go Tigers!
Why I want to teach: I had always known that I wanted to be a teacher. Growing up, I had such amazing teachers who truly cared for me as a student and as a person. I knew that I wanted to have that same impact on students of my own one day. I started to realize the passion I had for history as a subject. I always wanted to learn more and could never truly learn enough about it, especially since I had such an amazing history teacher. I hope to have a classroom of my own where my students can find what they are truly passionate about, just like I did.
Goals & Aspirations: After graduating from Clemson in 2025, I hope to be a part of Clemson's Teacher Residency program to earn a Master's degree. Afterwards, I plan to stay in-state to teach at a SC high school. I don't really see myself moving too far away from Clemson and home once I begin teaching because I love this area! Ideally, I hope to be teaching US History because that is my favorite!
Anna Beadles
Major: Early Childhood Education
Hometown: Commerce, GA
Background: Hi! I'm Anna Beadles and I'm a sophomore Early Childhood Education Major. I am involved in FCA, South Carolina Educators of Young Children, The Hills Retreat, Clemson Career Workshop, and the Work Study Program!
Why I want to teach: I want to teach because teachers are on the front line of shaping the next generation. As I have gotten older, I have realized that one of the biggest passions I have is to encourage and speak Truth over younger generations. Being a teacher will not only allow and equip me to give the gift of education to children but also teach them how to be good citizens and a part of society. I can not wait to provide a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all of my students!
Goals & Aspirations: In my two and a half years remaining at Clemson, my goals are to become more involved in the College of Education, study abroad, and know everyone’s names in my classes. After graduation, I hope to live in South Carolina and complete my Master’s Degree and possibly get my PhD as well. I also want to write a children’s book to have in my classroom!
Maggie Bell
Major: Special Education
Hometown: Raleigh, NC
Background: Outside of USAB, I currently serve as President for Kappa Delta sorority and teach barre through Clemson Campus Recreation! Since being a part of the College of Education at Clemson, I have been so grateful for all the opportunities I have been provided and I am so thankful to be able to serve through USAB.
Why I want to teach: My passion for education started in middle school through my history teacher who made me excited to learn every day. Her passion and energy was infectious, and I want to have that same impact on kids I work with in the future.
Goals & Aspirations: I want to attend graduate school to pursue my masters in speech-language pathology. My brother had an auditory processing disorder as a child, so my goal is to help kids like him be successful. I would love to work in a school system as an SLP in the future.
Avery Benhart
Major: Elementary Education Major & Philosophy Minor
Hometown: Davidson, NC
Background: Hi! I'm Avery and I'm from Davidson, NC. I love spending time with my friends, reading, and watching sports and I can't wait to be a part of USAB!
Why I want to teach: I always loved school growing up, and I want children to have that same love and respect for learning as they grow. I think that the opportunity to have a lasting impact on students like my teachers throughout my education have had on me is incredible.
Goals & Aspirations: I want to complete the five year masters program here at Clemson and then start my teaching career somewhere in North Carolina or Virginia. My ideal grade range to teach would be somewhere between 3rd and 5th grade because I think the content and development levels of those grades are incredibly interesting!
Josie Blanchard
Major: Early Childhood Education
Hometown: Newberry, SC
Background: Hey y'all! My name is Josie Blanchard, and I am from Newberry, SC. I chose to go to Clemson because I have been a lifetime fan, and it has always felt like home to me. I am involved in Teaching Fellows, SCAEYC, Turning Point USA, and I am the secretary of Young Women for America. Outside of school, I love to go on adventures, go to the beach, and, of course, go to Clemson football games! I also love spending any time I can with my friends and family.
Why I want to teach: I have always had a love for children and I know that by becoming a teacher I will be able to make a difference in my student’s lives through daily encouragement and support.
Goals & Aspirations: After graduating, I hope to continue my education and get a master's. I am not sure what I want my my maser's to be in yet, but I am leaning towards Psychology. After this, I would love to go into a kindergarten classroom, and serve title one schools. I want to inspire students and help them find a passion for learning.
Maggie Burriss
Major: Secondary Education & English
Hometown: Charleston, SC
Background: Hey everyone, I am Maggie and I am from Charleston, SC. I am currently the VP for the Women's Weightlifting Club, in the Tiger Band, and a CU Reach tutor. I am passionate about my extra-curriculars, and studying education! In my free time I love to workout, do yoga, meditate, and read books.
Why I want to teach: I believe teaching is the entry way for making the world a better place. I have always wanted to become a teacher because of the impact you have on future generations. I strongly believe that changing the world begins in the classroom. And I love working with kids!
Goals & Aspirations: I have many different goals, especially ones that I implement on a day-to-day basis. I want to become stronger through my exercising, I strive to incorporate more peace into my life, and I want to work hard. I also have long-term goals, like obtaining my degree, teaching, traveling, and many more. I could go on about this, but I believe that goals are important to identify in order to stay happy and motivated!
Liza Chapman
Major: Special Education Major & Psychology Minor
Hometown: Spartanburg, SC
Background: I grew up in Spartanburg, SC and have lots of teachers in my family! I have always known I have wanted to be a teacher, because of impactful and committed teachers in my life! I love Clemson's College of Ed and I am so thankful to be a part of it! I am a member of Alpha Delta Pi, and the IPTAY Student Advisory Board.
Why I want to teach: Teachers have such an opportunity to impact a child's life. School is sometimes the one constant in a child's life, and the teacher that they are seeing every day has the opportunity to grow them and love on them. Teaching is a profession where you can empower the next generation of adults, and that is truly special!
Goals & Aspirations: In a career in special education, I want to show every student that they are capable of learning and growing no matter their abilities. I want to be a Special Educator to decrease the gap between general education learners and special education learners through fostering a community of students and educators.
Caroline Coleman
Major: Elementary Education Major & Psychology Minor
Hometown: Columbia, SC
Background: Hi! My name is Caroline Coleman and I am from Columbia, SC. I am a student in the Clemson Honors College and I am involved in ClemsonLIFE, Clemson Aspiring Educators, National Alzheimer’s Buddies, and Gamma Phi Beta. Outside of class, I love to go to Clemson football games and spend time with my friends!
Why I want to teach: The teachers that I have had over the years have inspired me to pursue a career where I can share my love of learning, empower students to use their voice to make a difference, and create an environment where students feel comfortable to challenge themselves. I hope to not only serve as an educator, but a role model for our future generations!
Goals & Aspirations: After graduation, I hope to earn my Master’s Degree through the Teacher Residency Program and eventually have my own classroom! My goal is to one day earn a PhD and have a job in educational leadership.
Haleigh Dyson
Major: Elementary Education Major & English Minor
Hometown: Easley, SC
Background: Hey! My name is Haleigh Dyson, and I am a Junior Elementary Education Major from Easley, SC. I started out my time here at Clemson as a Pre-Law Major; however, after getting to work with two amazing kids I decided that teaching was the perfect career for me. I switched into the college in Fall of 2021 and it has been the best decision!
Why I want to teach: I want to be a teacher because I want to be a positive influence in my students’ lives just like so many of my teachers were for me. I enjoy working with children and helping them understand new concepts that they are learning. The best moment I have found when working with students is seeing that light bulb moment go off in their heads when they finally grasp the material. I can’t wait to be a teacher so that I can play a role in helping my students find confidence and love for education during their time in school.
Goals & Aspirations: My goal after graduating with my bachelors is to hopefully be accepted into Clemson's Teacher Residency Program. I would love to get my Masters from Clemson and then begin my journey in the classroom. I eventually want to study more in the area of Reading Literacy so that I can be better equipped to help my students' understand all components in reading. I hope to one day teach in a 2nd-3rd grade classroom here in South Carolina.
Noelle Ealey
Major: Secondary Education & Mathematics
Hometown: Pendleton, SC
Background: Hey! My name is Noelle, and I am a Secondary Math Education major from Pendleton, SC! On campus, I'm a member of the Honors College, Teaching Fellows, and a women's workout club called CHAARG. I love reading, being outside, and spending time with my dog!
Why I want to teach: I want to change students' perspectives about math, and help them realize that they don’t have to struggle with it. Many students dread math, and have already made up their mind that they aren’t good at it, or aren’t a “math person.” I want to rebuild students' confidence regarding math, and see them succeed. Math is extremely important in everyday life and in the workforce, so I hope to be able to adequately prepare students, and maybe even help them discover that they have a passion for math too!
Goals & Aspirations: During my time here at Clemson, I want to push myself out of my comfort zone and get involved with as much as I can! I hope to build connections with my peers while also preparing myself for my career in education! After graduation, I hope to participate in the Teacher Residency Program and get my Masters degree. I plan to stay in South Carolina and be a high school math teacher!
Cassady Fortson
Major: Special Education
Hometown: North Augusta, SC
Background: Hey ya'll! My name is Cassady and I enjoy playing golf in my free time, and I hope to eventually play on the club golf team here at Clemson. I chose Clemson because my mom graduated from here as well, so I have pretty much grown up here, and also for the amazing College of Education program. I am currently learning American Sign Language and plan to get involved with the ASL Club and ClemsonLIFE. I enjoy hanging out with friends, listening to music, going for walks around campus, and Clemson gamedays.
Why I want to teach: I have known that I wanted to teach since the fourth grade, and have had many experiences since then that have solidified my career choice in special education. My biggest "why" for teaching is to be an advocate for my future students, and to teach them that they can do anything they set their minds to, and to help them achieve it to the best of their ability. Teaching has a long history in my family, starting with my great grandmother, who was a huge inspiration to me growing up. I cannot wait to help children grow into amazing people, and hope to make a difference in their lives! Going to Clemson and being a part of the amazing Education program has been one of my dreams since I was a little kid, and I cannot wait to see how this program molds me into the best teacher that I can be for my students!
Goals & Aspirations: Upon graduation with a bachelor's degree at Clemson, I hope to get accepted into the Teacher Residency program and get my Masters degree. After graduation, I plan to stay in the Clemson or Greenville area and work in a school system in my very own Pre-K or Elementary severe self-contained special education classroom. During this time, I plan to have many experiences that will allow me to grow as a teacher and a person so that I can be the among one of the best for my future students! One of my long term goals is to own a house wherever I chose to settle, hopefully with a Ford Bronco in the driveway and a personal gym in the garage with a dog and lots and lots of music and many family dinners with friends!
Rachel Glynn
Major: Early Childhood Education
Hometown: Greenville, SC
Background: Hi everyone! I am a junior transfer student also involved in Clemson Hope, Clemson Aspiring Educators, and Alpha Delta Pi. I teach in KidSpring at NewSpring Church and love filling my schedule with working with kids! Back home, I have 7 pets (4 cats, 2 dogs, and a parrot)!
Why I want to teach: I want to teach because I want to positively impact children in Title I schools and children with lower socioeconomic statuses. I feel as if it is my mission to serve others, especially those that need it the most. It's shown that children with these backgrounds are less likely to succeed in school and continue their academic journey, so I want to turn that around and push those students to be the best versions of themselves.
Goals & Aspirations: My goal after graduation is to get my Masters through the Teacher Residency Program here at Clemson. After that, I would like to teach either 4K or Kindergarten. I plan to stay within South Carolina and work at a Title I school or Child Development Center.
Anna Howe
Major: Secondary Education & English
Hometown: Anderson, SC
Background: Hi! My name is Anna and I love literature, cartoons, and making art! I graduated from Tri-County in August 2022, and 20 days later I started here at Clemson!
Why I want to teach: I knew I wanted to teach after I was inspired by the literature we read in my English class junior year of high school. I have always been an avid reader, but the works we read provided me with a lot comfort during that time in my life. So, when I began at Tri-County, I set my sights on transferring to Clemson to pursue my dream of teaching English! I want to teach because not only would I be teaching a subject I am eternally passionate about, but I also want to change the world and empower my students through education! I want to spread the magic of English and literature, but also be an advocate for equality and inclusivity in the classroom!
Goals & Aspirations: After I graduate, I hope to teach 12th grade English, and continue my education! I would love to obtain another degree in English and/or my Master's in Teaching and Learning. I also have interest in teaching English abroad, as well as being a literary archivist!
Rachel Jacobs
Major: Elementary Education
Hometown: Hickory, NC
Background: Besides USAB, I am very involved in the campus ministry Cru and am a part of their service team. I also volunteer with ClemsonLIFE and Clemson Hope. I have a job babysitting for the sweetest three year old, which I absolutely love! In Clemson I really enjoy: walking at the Dikes, watching the sunset on the rowing docks, attending a cycle party class, or studying at Moe Joes. I also love spending time with my family and friends!
Why I want to teach: I absolutely love caring for and working with kids, and really want to make a positive impact upon their lives! I always had great teachers growing up, and I desire to provide children with the same positive experiences I have encountered myself. I have always been super passionate about working with children and am excited for the future experiences I will have as a teacher.
Goals & Aspirations: After college, I hope to be a part of the Clemson Teacher Residency program, earning my Master's degree! I would then love to teach 5th grade at an elementary school somewhere in the South.
Reese Jernigan
Major: Elementary Education
Hometown: Irmo, SC
Background: Hey! My name is Reese Jernigan and I am an elementary education major. So far I have loved my time here at Clemson and love the community of this school. There is also something to do and people to meet and connect with. I am excited to be apart of USAB and further my experience in the College of Education and growing as future educator. I am also involved in FCA and Teaching Fellows here at Clemson.
Why I want to teach: I have known I have wanted to be a teacher since elementary school. The main reason why I want to teach is to give younger kids a solid foundation in the basics of all subject areas that they learn in elementary school. This will benefit them as they get to more difficult material in middle and high school. I also want to make school a fun and welcoming environment that way they associate positive feelings with school throughout their childhood and adolescents.
Goals & Aspirations: After I graduate, I plan on pursuing a masters in educational leadership. After I have pursued my educational goals, I want to teach somewhere here in South Carolina, and I would love to third grade!
Saylor Judy
Major: Special Education
Hometown: Branchville, SC
Background: I am a member of the Freshman Council, Alpha Delta Pi, Volunteers 4 Life, and the Pre- Occupational and Speech Therapy club. I enjoy serving others and learning new things each day!
Why I want to teach: Ever since I was a little girl, I always wanted to be a teacher! I can remember teaching my homework to my little brother in my playhouse, which I thought was a school. Teaching and helping others have always been passions of mine and I can't wait to see what I can do with them in the future!
Goals & Aspirations: After obtaining my Bachelor's Degree in Special Education, I would like to go to grad school and get my masters in Speech Therapy. I would like to work in the classroom while I get my masters so I never have to leave the classroom setting! I am so excited to be able to use these degrees to help children daily.
Nora Kramer
Major: Elementary Education
Hometown: Columbus, OH
Background: Hey y'all!! My name is Nora and I am from Columbus, OH. I am a sophomore and am loving my time at Clemson! On campus I am involved in my sorority, Alpha Delta Pi, where I am the Director of Primary Recruitment and Aspiring Educators. I love to explore around Clemson, spend time with friends, be outside, and watch shows/movies!
Why I want to teach: Ever since I was young I have always wanted to be a teacher. I used to spend hours in my room setting up my pretend classroom and teaching "students". I am very passionate about helping others and making a difference in others lives. My past experiences grew my love and desire to teach. I have had excellent teachers throughout my academic career that have inspired me to become an educator and impact a child's life. My teachers provided me with my love to learn, allowing me to fall in love with school and grow that love into something that I can pursue as my career and hopefully share with my students one day. I want to take that love and make something great out of it, helping to shape the future generations. I want to be a support system for future students, assisting through tough times in their life pushing them to strive for greatness.
Goals & Aspirations: I hope to finish the rest of my educational career strong, falling more in love with education. After graduation, I hope to be a part of Clemson’s Teacher Residency program and earn my Master’s degree, eventually settling down in a great community helping to make a difference in students’ lives.
Sophia La Porta
Major: Special Education
Hometown: Boalsburg, PA
Background: Hi! I'm Sophia La Porta and I am a freshman Special Education Major from Boalsburg, Pa. My mom attended Clemson, and when I came and toured campus, I knew it would be a great fit for me. Besides being involved in USAB, I am also a member of Clemsons Aspiring Educators.
Why I want to teach: School has always been something I really enjoyed, and I have been lucky enough to have teachers who always supported me. In middle school I began helping out in the Special Ed classroom and could immediately see myself doing it as a career. The teacher was so kind to all of her students, and welcomes volunteers in to her classroom so that her students could create more friendships. Ultimately, I want to be that supportive and kind teacher for all of my future student's, and make school something they look forward to each day!
Goals & Aspirations: I want to enjoy my time here at Clemson University, and learn from all of my experiences here. I pan on participating in the teacher residency program to get a masters degree. After graduation I look forward to having my own classroom and making an impact on the lives of my students.
Stacy Lawrence
Major: Special Education Major & American Sign Language Minor
Hometown: Cincinnati, OH
Background: Hello everyone, my name is Stacy Lawrence, and I am from Cincinnati, Ohio. I've loved coming to Clemson, and my college experience has been nothing short of amazing! This is my first year on the Undergraduate Student Advisory Board, but I am also the VP of Clemson's improv troupe, Mock Turtle Soup. Don't be a stranger if you see me on campus; I love to chat!
Why I want to teach: Growing up, many of my teachers impacted me in many different ways and truly pushed me to be the best version of myself, and I aim to do the same for any and all of my students. I turned to special education when I started volunteering in the transition programs during school and grew to love all of the students. I noticed that many students outside of these programs had no idea of the amazing personalities that all of the students in special education programs have, so I pushed for unity within the school which sparked a passion I never knew I had. It takes a special kind of person to teach, which is why I know that all of my peers and future colleagues are good people.
Goals & Aspirations: Once I get my degree, I would like to help build special education transition programs in low-income schools. With a lack of funding in many of these low-income schools, special education services often get overlooked. I aspire to change that and bring about programs that these students deserve.
Virginia (Jeni) Lee
Major: Early Childhood Education
Hometown: Spartanburg, SC
Background: I am a Sophomore and this is my first semester as an Education major! I struggled my first couple of semesters trying to find my place here at Clemson. I worked through 3 different majors not quite feeling peace that I was in the right one. I finally filled out my application for Education and got accepted and immediately felt like I was where I belonged!
Why I want to teach: I want to teach because I want to give back to the education field. Growing up, some of the most influential people in my life have been my teachers! I want to have the opportunity to shape the lives of students, the same way teachers shaped mine. I ignored my calling into education for as long as I could, but I finally found my home in the College of Education and could not be happier.
Goals & Aspirations: My goals for being involved with USAB include both goals for the program and individually. For the education program here at Clemson, I hope we can continue to be one of the best majors on campus! I hope that we as an advisory board are able to keep up all of the wonderful things such as events, fundraising, and preparation for jobs once graduation. I hope that we also grow and use the ideas of others to become a better committee for Clemson. As for myself, I hope to continue to put myself out there and give back to the Clemson community more and more! I am so excited to meet more and more students who are as excited to be future educators as I am!
Taj Mack-Pete
Major: Elementary Education
Hometown: Spartanburg, SC
Background: I am a part of the Call Me MiSTER program at Clemson. I am also a member of the Clemson Boxing Club. FUN FACT: I once was a CEO of a business in high school.
Why I want to teach: The best thing to give to the next generation is not fame or fortune, but it is knowledge. That is what I want to give to the coming generation.
Goals & Aspirations: Some of my goals are to teach overseas, write a children's book, get my doctorate, and become a superintendent.
Isabelle Matkovich
Major: Secondary Education & Social Studies
Hometown: Moncks Corner, SC
Background: Hey y'all! I am Isabelle Matkovich and I am from Moncks Corner, South Carolina. I am a Secondary Education in Social Studies major. I love to go on walks, I love crafty things, and I love to cuddle with my dog, Lola!
Why I want to teach: I have wanted to teach since before I can remember. There have been many times where I’ve strayed away from the profession because of what people say or how people feel about it. During my sophomore year of high school I decided to let that go and further my passion for me and the students I would impact the rest of my career. I want to give students even just a small amount of what my grade school teachers gave me and I will feel accomplished!
Goals & Aspirations: After graduation I plan to stay in Clemson and get my masters through the Residency Program. I hope to teach anywhere God wants me.
Chloe McCoy
Major: Special Education
Hometown: Anderson, SC
Background: Hey y’all, my name’s Chloe McCoy, and I’m a Special Education Major from Iva, SC. I transferred from Coastal Carolina, and I was so excited to see that Clemson has such an involved college of education! In my free time, I love to spend time with my friends and family, go to the lake, and read!
Why I want to teach: I have wanted to be a teacher ever since I started Kindergarten! I have worked with the YMCA as an after school counselor and as a local daycare teacher, and these experiences have only made me more excited to have a classroom of my own one day! As a special education teacher, I want to provide my students the tools that they need to achieve their goals in school and throughout their lives. I believe that all students have the potential to reach their wildest dreams, and a good teacher can help them reach those goals. I want to be someone that students can look up and know that I truly care about them!
Goals & Aspirations: After graduating I plan on staying in the upstate and providing special education services in a high school setting. I also hope to earn my Masters degree and, one day, my PhD in special education!
Chloe Milkowski
Major: Elementary Education
Hometown: Huntington, NY
Background: Hi everyone! My name is Chloe Milkowski, and I am a sophomore from Huntington, NY, majoring in Elementary Education! I am a part of Clemson Hope, Club Tennis, and the Honors College. During the summer, I work as a camp counselor. One of my favorite things to do is travel and explore new places. A fun fact about me is that I am studying abroad in Florence, Italy!
Why I want to teach: My mom is a school principal, and she always says the most impactful part of being an educator is getting to know the students and seeing them succeed, which is exactly what I want to do. I want to be a teacher that impacts her students and helps them believe in themselves. When I was a sophomore and junior in high school, I taught religious education to sixth graders, and that reaffirmed my passion for helping students. In high school, I got heavily involved in extracurricular activities relating to going to elementary schools and helping children with homework and after school activities and I knew from there I wanted to become a teacher.
Goals & Aspirations: After graduation, I want to work as a teacher for a couple of years. I eventually want to get a masters degree to become a school administrator.
Martha Moore
Major: Early Childhood Education
Hometown: Rock Hill, SC
Background: I grew up in a four family house hold, my mom was a teacher and my dad worked full time as a director of sales. I have a brother who is now in the army and lives in a different state. Both my brother and I went to private school where I learned that my career path was somewhere in the school system.
Why I want to teach: I want to teach to show children that they are not the only learners in this world, everyone is a learner and you will continue to learn for the entirety of your life.
Goals & Aspirations: Short term goals: finish this year strong do the teacher residency program. Long term: move back home and teach at the school I graduated from.
Ahmad Pendergrass
Major: Elementary Education Major & Athletic Leadership Minor
Hometown: Greenwood, SC
Background: I am a member of the Call Me MiSTER program. I am also a member of Clemson Aspiring Educators and Clemson Sports Management club. I also enjoy listening to and writing music.
Why I want to teach: I want to teach because growing up I was able to see my mom teach students and leave an impact on their life. She was my hero growing up seeing her be a change agent and impacting lives. She made school a safe haven for children who may be going through things that we may never experience in our life. She showed me how to be truly compassionate and to truly care for another person and that has inspired me to become a teacher.
Goals & Aspirations: After graduation, I plan on teaching 2nd or 3rd grade in a rural area of South Carolina where students may not have equal access to an education compared to other students across the state. Another goal of mine is to become a varsity basketball coach I want to be able to impact a students life even in sports as well.
Julia Piotrowski
Major: Special Education Major & American Sign Language Minor
Hometown: Cherry Hill, NJ
Background: This is my second year on the Undergraduate Student Advisory Board for the College of Education! I love giving back to the College that has brought me so many relationships with both professors and my fellow students. I am also involved on campus as a member of CUSG as a member of the elections board and my sorority Kappa Delta as the Director of Collegiate Facilities.
Why I want to teach: I have had a passion for teaching since I was younger! I want to be able to be an inspiration in my future students lives. I also want to push all my students to their fullest potential! Most importantly though I want to be the teacher that makes an impact on my students lives both academically and personally.
Goals & Aspirations: I want to continue to push myself to do well academically and be as involved as I can. I want to help others but also remember to make time for myself.
Maddie Pratt
Major: Early Childhood Education
Hometown: Anderson, SC
Background: I am from Anderson, SC! I graduated from T.L. Hanna High School! Before graduating high school, I coached volleyball for 3 years, played volleyball for 8 years, and I danced for 15 years. At Clemson, I am also apart of Sigma Alpha Omega and Clemson Hope. I work at an After School Care in Anderson called Cricket.
Why I want to teach: As a kid, I wanted to be a teacher. I always wanted to have my own classroom, teach students, and to give rewards often. I would make my grandpa be my student all the time. It wasn’t until I was a little bit older that I truly wanted to be a teacher. My third grade teacher was my favorite teacher and the most impactful. He was always helping us learn by using different teaching styles. During this time, I was being picked on by some other girls. He would always help me and make sure they weren’t being mean to me for no reason. Later on in the year, his wife found out she was expecting. He pulled me and one of my friends into the hallway to tell us that he is naming his child after us. I never felt so loved by a teacher. It made me want to help kids feel that love when they may not be getting that love at home. I want to be the teacher that loves my kids and wants them to succeed.
Goals & Aspirations: I want to get my masters during the Clemson 5 year mastery plan. I hope to have my masters before going into the field. After that, I would love to be in a Kindergarten, First, Second, or Third grade classroom close to home!
Alisha Rankin
Major: Middle Level Education - Math and Science Major & Psychology Minor
Hometown: Seneca, SC
Background: Hey everyone! I’m Alisha from Seneca, SC. I’m involved in It’s On Us and the Homeless Period Project at Clemson. I also work as a 1 year old teacher at a daycare- which I absolutely love! I love the community within the College of Education here at Clemson and am so excited to be apart of USAB.
Why I want to teach: I had so many amazing teachers growing up who had a positive impact on my life. I hope that I can have that same impact on my future students!
Goals & Aspirations: After graduating, I hope to teach middle school math in the Upstate. After teaching for a few years, I plan to go to graduate school to become a School Psychologist.
Maddie Reeves
Major: Elementary Education
Hometown: Anderson, SC
Background: I am a sophomore here at Clemson! I have always been a Clemson fan and I am currently living out my dream here as I study to be an Elementary Education major! I have a huge heart for kids and cannot wait to change young children’s lives someday!
Why I want to teach: I want to become a teacher because I want to have a lasting effect on the future generation. I believe it is so important to show children that school can be fun and enjoyable all the while learning important information. Being these children’s backbones throughout their school years is something I have always aspired to do.
Goals & Aspirations: My goal is to graduate from Clemson and go back to the district I came through to give back to the community since it gave me so much. I want to hopefully be a 3rd grade teacher and have the best time with my future students!
Sami Rosi
Major: Special Education
Hometown: Florence, SC
Background: Hey everyone! My name is Sami Rosi, and I am a special education major from Florence, SC. I enjoy being involved with Clemson Hope and am so excited to be involved with the College of Education USAB! I enjoy reading, spending time with family and friends, and being with my pets!
Why I want to teach: There are a few reasons why I want to teach. The first reason is that I absolutely adore kids and have known that a job where I get to be around children all day would be perfect for me. I want to teach special education specifically because my younger brother has autism, so I've been around someone with special needs my whole life. Because of this, I feel I do a very good job connecting with him and other children with special needs.
Goals & Aspirations: My goal is to graduate from Clemson with my master's degree through the five-year program. I'm not 100% sure which grade level I would want to teach the most, but I'm leaning toward middle school special education.
Emily Salehi
Major: Early Childhood Education
Hometown: Annapolis, MD
Why I want to teach: I had so many amazing teachers that made such an impact on my life, so I hope to be able to make a difference in the future generations' lives and their education as well!
Goals & Aspirations: I hope to pursue a masters in speech pathology and work with children as an SLP!
Natalie Sawyer
Major: Secondary Education & Mathematics
Hometown: Fort Mill, SC
Background: Hey everyone! I am the 2 year standing Vice President of the Teaching Fellows Program here at Clemson! Besides that, I try to get involved in different service opportunities in communities surrounding our area and volunteer with kids anytime I can! I teach and play a lot of tennis and try to stay active and spend time with friends and family in my free time! A fun fact about me is I love to crochet! Go tigers!
Why I want to teach: I want to teach because I genuinely believe it is the easiest way to make an impact on our future generations. While I do love the material that I’ll be given the opportunity to teach, I truly feel passionate about being able to build relationships with students in my classroom and make a difference in their lives. I am so excited to build an inclusive and equitable classroom environment for my students and create a safe space for them. As a future math teacher, I know many of my students will enter the classroom feeling discouraged about their math abilities. So, I can’t wait to build their confidences, not only in math, but also in themselves!
Goals & Aspirations: My goal is to teach high school math in the state of South Carolina for four years after I graduate.
Diane Schott
Major: Secondary Education & English
Hometown: Madison, AL
Background: Hi everyone! My name is Diane Schott, and I am a freshman from Madison, Alabama! I am a secondary education major with an emphasis in English, and I am so excited to be a part of USAB this year! I am also a part of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, and I love all things Clemson! If someone had told me four years ago that I would be going to Clemson I would have called them crazy, but coming to Clemson was the best decision of my life! I love game days, meeting new people, and getting involved on this amazing campus. I can't wait for what the next few years bring!
Why I want to teach: I want to teach because I have had some amazing teachers in my life that have greatly affected me. Some of my teachers have seen me at my lowest points and supported me with so much love, and I want to be that teacher for another student. And who doesn't love a good English class? I have also had some very impactful classes that have brought along some great discussion from all walks of life, and I want to be a part in facilitating impactful conversations amongst young minds.
Goals & Aspirations: I plan on doing the fifth year Masters Program that Clemson offers and then begin in the classroom. I have not decided where I would like to teach yet, but I would potentially stay in South Carolina or more elsewhere. I plan to teach high school English for grades ninth or twelfth.
Ashlyn Strom
Major: Early Childhood Education
Hometown: Anderson, SC
Background: I am a Early Childhood Education major, and also a member of the teaching fellows program. Some of the things I enjoy outside of academics include playing guitar, anything creative, hiking, and spending quality time with my family, friends, and dogs.
Why I want to teach: I have always known I wanted to be a teacher, for as long as I can remember. I have had experiences with teachers that negatively affected my academic trajectory. One teacher was able to change that for me, and I want to be that teacher for my students. I want to shape and support the future generations, and change the stigma behind school.
Goals & Aspirations: I would like to start teaching right away. My preferred grade levels are 4k through 1st grade, and I would love to stay local here in SC. I do plan to get my masters at a later date.
Caroline Summers
Major: Middle Level Education - Social Studies & Language Arts
Hometown: Chapin, SC
Background: I am from Chapin, SC and love to be outside. I am a summer camp counselor at Camp Gravatt and am involved with my sorority, Chi Omega. I enjoy going on adventures, planning new trips, and swimming.
Why I want to teach: I want to teach because being a summer camp counselor has given me a unique perspective into the minds of kids along with their development. Every interaction with kids can become a positive or negative impact, and as an educator, I want to create as many positive experiences for students as possible. I love being able to help people, and helping students find success in and out of the classroom has always been something I see myself doing.
Goals & Aspirations: I have always known I wanted to be a teacher in some sort of way. Learning about the different positions in every school, lead me to be interested in School Psychology. After graduation, I plan on earning my Education Specialist in School Psychology, and, then working at a public school somewhere in South Carolina.
Paris Yoshida
Major: Secondary Education and History Major & Psychology Minor
Hometown: Virginia Beach, VA
Background: I am a Sophomore Secondary Social Studies Education Major from Manassas Park, VA, but I went to high school in Virginia Beach. With both of my parents working in the school system, I have pretty much always wanted to teach. I am currently an RA in Manning Hall and work with the Goal POST program at Palmetto Elementary through the College of Education.
Why I want to teach: I want to teach because I believe that everyone deserves to be invested in.
Goals & Aspirations: I want to be a mentor for each student that walks into my classroom. Of course, I would love to be an educational resource, but more importantly, I want to be someone my students can trust with any issue that may come their way.
