Getting to Know You: Sydney Collins
Sydney Collins – Elementary Education
Year in school: Senior
Why are you studying Elementary Education? What do you hope to do after graduation?
I’m studying Elementary Education because my mom’s a teacher and she’s my biggest inspiration. I love volunteering in schools, spending time with kids, and helping my community! After graduation, I plan on teaching either elementary or middle school math.
Why did you choose WSU?
I chose WSU Pullman because of the welcoming community and the amazing education program. As soon as I toured the campus, I knew this was the school for me!
What’s been your favorite part of the WSU experience thus far?
Cougar Football Saturdays, practicum, and all the amazing people I have met!
What’s been the biggest challenge so far?
College is all about making mistakes and learning to grow. This has definitely been the most challenging for me, as self-reflection can often be difficult. Growing and becoming a better self is so important, and I am so thankful for all the people who have helped shaped me into the person I am today.
As a college, we’re starting to focus more on our people being agents of change. What makes you an agent of change?
In my endorsement classes for middle level mathematics, we learn new ways to teach math that is both engaging and valuable to our students. I want to break down stereotypes and make learning math accessible to all students, regardless of their background. Math is an essential subject, but it’s often the most disliked among students, so making math more stimulating and fun is important for student learning.
Favorites
Food: Sushi
Restaurant in Pullman: Red Bento
Book: Where The Crawdads Sing
Band: Queen
Song: Yellow by Coldplay
Movie: School of Rock
TV show: Grey’s Anatomy
Coug sport: Football
Vacation spot: Cabo San Lucas
Dream vacation spot: Paris, France