Major: Art education with a minor in art history

Year: 2013

Hometown: Brick, New Jersey

Q: What made you want to be an art education major?

A: I always wanted to be a teacher, I was just unsure what I wanted to teach at first.  It wasn’t until I came to visit Marywood that I decided on art education. Art runs in the family. My mom graduated with a BFA degree. She has taught me so much about art, [including] techniques, styles.  We would take trips visiting museums and entering in contests. I just never thought about teaching my passion.

Q: How have you been able to balance being a resident assistant with your responsibilities as a student?

A: It has definitely been a struggle, but I love a good challenge. I think the most difficult time was this semester when I was an RA and student-teacher. For my second placement, I had to wake up around 5:00 a.m. to drive an hour and be on bus duty. After being on rounds until 1:00 a.m., taking my shower, falling asleep, I only get about three hours of sleep.

Q: What was the best lesson you have learned throughout these past four years?

 A: One day at a time. I’m always thinking about tomorrow rather than today. The problem is that I don’t get to appreciate what’s happening in the present. I first heard this from Fr. Brian, and ever since he told me this, I’ve tried my best to live one day at a time.

Q:  Who was your most influential teacher while being here at Marywood over the course of your four years?

A: There are so many teachers who have helped me become a better artist, student and educator. My adviser, Dr. Susan Brangers, and Ann Marie Castelgrande are the two most influential teachers. Dr. Brangers is my adviser and was my professor for three art history courses. I don’t know if Dr. Brangers knows this, but I actually met her when I came to visit Marywood in high school. I sat in on her art history class and loved it! So when I found out I had her for my art history I course as a freshman, I was thrilled. She has always helped me in class and outside of the classroom.

Ann Marie Castelgrande is another teacher who has always been there for me. She taught my art education courses and has taught me almost everything I know about art education. Honestly, she has taught me more than just teaching styles and lesson plans; she has helped me grow as an individual.

Q: What is the best advice you can give to underclassmen?

A: Do something fun each day. These four years go by so fast. I still remember move-in day like it was yesterday. College is going to be challenging, but you can’t forget to have some fun.

Q: What do you plan on doing after you graduate?

A: I was recently accepted into the MFA painting program at Marywood. I’m happy to say I will continue my education here for the next two years for my MFA.