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Washington State University
College of Education

Getting to Know You: Marah Novak

Marah Novak – Elementary Education with a minor in Human Development

Year in School: Sophomore
Hometown: Aurora, Colorado

Why did you choose Washington State University?

I chose WSU because I fell in love with the campus, Pullman as a whole, and I really liked the education program.

What inspired you to pursue a degree in education?

I remember playing teacher when I was a kid, and out of all the ideas I had for my career, I always came back to wanting to be a teacher. I feel like I’ve wanted to do this since I was young, so it only felt right to major in it!

Who, or what, influenced your decision to pursue this degree?

I think the fact that I used to play teacher was really important because it showed I was interested in it even before I knew about college or career paths. Not only that but working with students always puts me in a better mood, no matter how my day is going!

Was pursing this degree always your plan?

I was originally planning on pursuing psychology, but I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do with that degree, I was just interested in social sciences. The human development minor with the education major ended up being the perfect combination for me!

What is your dream job after college?

My dream job after college would be an educator in a school on the West side, and hopefully I can go back to school and eventually become a principal!

Do you have any advice for incoming freshman pursuing this degree?

I would say to ask a lot of questions and email your professors/go to their office hours! Professors are here to help us if we need it, so if you are confused on a concept or need help with an assignment, utilize their expertise! I email my professors all the time, and this not only helps me do better in my classes, but my professors also know me by name, which comes in handy more than you would think! They could be your future references or resources in finding internships/jobs.

Favorites: 

Professor: Nalee Moua
Sport: Football, GO COUGS!
Place to Study: Terrell Library on the lowest level!! Nice and quiet like I like it.
Quote: “What you think about, you bring about”, so think positively as much as you can!