A Calling to Teach
Alyssa Denman has found her place at Midland University, where her passion for Elementary Education aligns with her active involvement in campus activities and band.
Alyssa, from Council Bluffs, Iowa, is a junior Elementary Education major with endorsements in Early Childhood Education and Coaching, and she is also getting her certificate in Social and Emotional Learning.
Coming out of high school, Alyssa was looking for a place that would allow her to be involved in many activities. “While looking for colleges, I knew I needed a college that gave me a lot of resources because I am a first-generation college student. In addition, I wanted a college that was small and had a family/home feel to it.”
Alyssa toured many schools in the Metro area, but none of them felt like home. After taking a virtual tour of Midland, she decided to take an in-person visit, and it felt like home.
Alyssa chose to pursue a career in elementary education because of the influence of past elementary school teachers and because she wants to see her students grow up. She is dedicated to teaching young students and making a positive impact. “I specifically came here for the education program. This program allows us to go out to the classrooms in the first semester of our freshman year.”
“I want to watch my students grow up and see how much they learn. I want to make sure I am that role model and that person my students feel comfortable with coming to me and talking to me.”
She also came to Midland to be involved in the band program. She said the program felt like her high school band, something that was important to her.
Along with band, Alyssa is involved in SAS, is part of the Tech Crew in Arts, works in the education office, and is a part of the NSEA-AE (Nebraska State Education Association-Aspiring Educators) as the campus president. She also serves on the state team as Northeast Region representative and has recently joined the national level in the Resolutions Committee. Outside of Midland, Alyssa helps coach softball at Thomas Jefferson High School in Council Bluffs.
Along with offering multiple activities for her to be involved in, Alyssa said Midland has helped her during college by having different resources offered whenever she needs them.
“Midland makes sure that you have everything you need. They do not just throw you into the dark. They make sure you are doing well physically, mentally, and financially.”
She said her professors have also made a difference in her college experience and likes how they make sure to create a tight relationship with their students.
“All of the professors in the education department have been my support system since freshman year. They are people who make me strive to be the best person I can be.” They are always there whenever I need them and I consistently have chats with them on a daily basis. All of them want what is best for you.”
After college, Alyssa would like to teach somewhere close to home and pursue a masters degree. She wants to teach grades kindergarten up to fourth grade.
Alyssa Denman is a junior Education major from Council Bluffs, Iowa.
