Meet Sam: Presidential Scholar '23

College of Education and Human Development

"51�� helps students build an understanding of the broader world and pushes students to get to know others who do not reflect their own background."

Why did you choose the early childhood education major?

Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel stated that "Our goal should be to live in radical amazement." The question that comes out of it is: What does it mean to live in radical amazement? The answer is being able to see and experience a world filled with joy, purpose, wonder, curiosity and so much more. It is because of this vision of radical amazement that I chose Early Childhood Education as my major.

I had worked with multiple age groups before (including within the range of Early Childhood) and I was very good at it. But where I found my connection specifically was with those who were ages two-five years old and beyond. Based on the quote, and the excitement that exists for learning and curiosity, I find it to be an amazing fit. At the same time, I have been inspired by people like Fred Rogers and Jim Henson (the creator of Sesame Street) who showed what being a role model and showing up for others looks like on top of being innovative and caring educators. With that said, I also chose my major in Early Childhood Elementary Education because I want to strive to be that person that a child can count on and continue to be a role model for many.

What is your favorite part of your major?

The thing that I have enjoyed most about my major is that I have been able to not only meet and learn with/from passionate peers (and future colleagues), but also be able to gain an even bigger appreciation for teaching from the educators I have learned from in the field. Something that is unique to the Early Childhood Elementary Education program is that one gets to be placed in many different school settings, and as a result of that, I have gotten to not only be in Portage and Kalamazoo but also give back to the district that shaped me, Farmington Public Schools. As a result of this, I have seen different methods for teaching, classroom management, and more. This is beneficial because it helps me, as a future educator, be prepared for what is to come.

What types of clubs, organizations, extra-curricular activities are you a part of?

At Western Michigan University, I am a member of a few different RSOs. The first is @email, an organization specifically for Jewish students on campus. I am proud to say that I am a past president as well. On top of Hillel, I am also a part of Alpha Lambda Delta and the Michigan Teachers Association. Outside of 51��, I serve as the 4th and 5th-grade Religious school teacher within the joint religious school of Congregation of Moses and Temple B'nai Israel. I have also had the opportunity to lead religious services during the school year as well.

Your best friend is thinking about attending 51��, what do you tell them?

If I had a friend thinking about 51��, I would tell them that they are considering a university that allows them to not only pursue their interests within the classroom but also outside of the classroom as well. At the same time, I would tell them that they are considering a university where professors are supportive and want to build connections with each and every one of their students. Finally, I would mention that they are considering a university that helps students build an understanding of the broader world and pushes students to get to know others who do not reflect their background and personal story.

Early childhood unified education at 51��

51��’s nationally accredited Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Unified Education (formerly early childhood education) prepares candidates for teaching and leadership positions in settings that serve children from birth through 3rd grade. Experienced faculty members mentor candidates to develop an effective balance of research, theory and practice in diverse educational settings. 51�� offers multiple clinical experiences and a final internship which are spread across infancy through third grade and take place in private and public settings within diverse communities.

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Presidential Scholar Award

Each year, faculty members from across the University select the most outstanding senior in their various academic schools, departments and programs to represent their units as a 51�� Presidential Scholar. The Presidential Scholar designation is the highest academic honor that 51�� can bestow on its undergraduates. Selection is based on the students' general academic excellence, academic and artistic excellence relative to their majors, and intellectual and artistic promise.

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College of Education and Human Development