With the help of California Lutheran University, I was able to experience not only insightful topics related to elementary education, I was also able to learn more about myself through the Honors and Study Abroad programs. CLU provided me with outstanding opportunities connect with my heritage while becoming career ready. I was able to study abroad in Cuba, where my mother was born and Spain where her ancestors are from. This provided me with a unique way of getting to know myself better in order to be a better teacher. Dr. Mac was a wonderful advisor who guided me in all my studies and encouraged me to join the honor’s program. With all the support of my advisor and thoughtful professors, I graduated magna cum laude. I believe the small class sizes and personable staff really helped too. I was told that most beginning elementary teachers start at lower grades, but with the excellent education I received, the first teaching job I applied to (for a 5th grade position) I got!




