Getting to Know You: Jennifer Aceves
Jennifer Aceves – Elementary Education with ELL Endorsement
Hometown: College Place, WA
Year: Junior
Why did you choose WSU?
I applied to EWU and WSU. I was looking to see who would give me more scholarships and I chose based on that and the education program. I did not visit either campus in advance, but I thought that the WSU campus events engaged you and made you feel more a part of the school and the environment.
Why do you want to become a teacher?
I wanted to become a whole bunch of other things. I had my CNA and had fun helping the patients but dealing with the bodily fluids was just not my thing. My community college advisor asked me a bunch of questions while I was there, and she said that I would make a great teacher. I took some teaching courses at Walla Walla Community College and I just decided to complete my teaching degree. I figured, why not?
What are you most passionate about when it comes to being a teacher?
I want to make an impact on the lives of my students and tell them to never forget where they come from. I want my students to get equal opportunities and never be left out. I didn’t know English when I went to kindergarten so I felt left out and I don’t want others to go through the same thing.
What/who inspired you to become a teacher?
My high school teachers. I had a really cool science teacher. He showed me what being a teacher truly means. Others seemed to be just there for the money, but my science teacher was there to teach you and help you. If he saw you struggling he would always help you through.
What do you hope to achieve in this career?
Graduate and hope to get a job where I know that I would be able to help kids. There is not really a specific area I want to go, but maybe somewhere where there is a majority of ELL’s so I can actually have my endorsement be useful and be helpful.
What is your favorite part of this program?
Being able to connect with others and see diversity out there. Also, to see male students wanting to be teachers and not backing down just because there are a lot of females out there.
Do you have any advice for incoming freshmen?
Live your experience, don’t let others live your experience.