Getting to Know You: Melina LaBoyne
Melina LaBoyne – Elementary Education
Year in school: sophomore
Hometown: Auburn, Washington
What are you studying?
Elementary Education with mathematics minor and ELL endorsement.
Why are you studying Elementary Education? What do you hope to do with this after you graduate?
I’ve always known that I wanted to be a teacher. Learning is such a powerful tool in a person’s life and I want to help contribute to my future students’ growth in that area. School should be a rewarding experience for everyone, and I am determined to make my classroom a safe and inclusive space. I’ve had many influential teachers during my time as a student who have helped shape me into the person I am today, and it is my hope that I assist in doing that for the next generation of learners. After graduation, I plan to get my master’s degree and teach upper elementary grades or middle school mathematics. I’d also love to travel abroad to teach English as a second language!
Why did you choose WSU?
I chose WSU because I fell in love with the campus during my first visit. Pullman is inviting and has something that draws students in, including me! I had also heard fantastic things about the College of Education.
What has been your favorite part of the WSU experience thus far?
My favorite part of my WSU experience thus far has been getting to try new things! There are a plethora of opportunities and resources made available for students here, and I have enjoyed getting to explore them all.
What has been the biggest challenge so far?
The biggest challenge for me has been the combination of classes being online my entire first year as a student here and then moving to campus for the first time last semester. I struggled to make connections through my online courses and then came here feeling like I knew no one. Through getting involved in various activities on campus, I have been able to remedy that feeling slowly but surely.
As a college, we’re focusing more on our people being agents of change. What makes you an agent of change?
I am an agent of change because of my passion for education and desire to make the world a better place for all people. A high-quality education has an incredible value for a person, and I want to help all of my students get the most out of their time in school. They will be the people in charge of our world one day, and I want to help them reach all of their goals, regardless of size.
Favorites
Food: Pasta
Book: I have too many!
Band: BTS
Movie: She’s the Man
Coug sport: football
Hobby: reading and thrifting
Dream vacation spot: China, South Korea, and Japan!