Laura Valera

CSU Fullerton

“The CSUF combined teaching credential and master’s program has opened my eyes to the hardships and possibilities within an elementary school classroom. I decided to change career paths from accounting to teaching during the fall of 2015. One year after that life-changing decision, I found myself student teaching in a combined 3rd/4th grade classroom. Although the experience was challenging at first, it prepared me for the many things to come. As teachers we must be committed to our students and their education. This program has introduced me to a new way of teaching. The responsibilities educators have go beyond just providing students with facts and information. I have learned different strategies on how to provide my students with engaging and meaningful lessons that tap into their background knowledge. All students have the potential to excel in the classroom; it is up to us as teachers to find each student’s individual gifts. I went into the teaching profession to make a difference in the lives of our younger generations. Through the CSUF combined teaching credential/master’s program I am confident that I will provide my students with a just, equitable and inclusive education. I will continue to work hard to find the optimal teaching practices that will help children succeed in their K-6 educational journey.”

Read more profiles of Teachers Made in the CSU.