December 2020 graduate spotlights
17 Dec 2020
Seven students graduating during the Dec. 19, 2021, commencement ceremony share Q-and-As about their time at Nebraska and their plans after graduation. Rachel Engel, Logan Kirk, Sage Kraft and Kelsey Safarik are completing bachelor's degrees in elementary and special education (K-6); Madeline Hoffman and Katelyn Pick will earn bachelor's degrees in communication sciences & disorders; and Ann Teigland is finishing her master's degree in special education with a specialization in education of the deaf and hard of hearing.
Rachel Engel
Chicago, Illinois | Elementary & Special Education (K-6)
What was the biggest factor in you choosing Nebraska for your undergraduate studies?
The biggest factor in me choosing Nebraska for my undergraduate studies was that my immediate family was moving out of the country, and I wanted to be close to extended family! My cousins and grandparents all reside in Nebraska, so UNL was the perfect location.
What made you interested in studying special education?
I have always been passionate about working with kids, and dreamed of becoming a teacher ever since elementary school. When I discovered my interest in working with kids, I realized I wanted to work with all students. I really like working with students who may not see their potential right away and may need extra support to get there. It is truly a special moment when a student realizes they are able to solve that really hard math problem or read a difficult text. It’s really awesome that as a teacher I can be there to encourage and empower them to reach their fullest potential.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you will educate special education students?
The pandemic has helped me to realize even more the importance of building strong relationships with your students right away. I have found that when I build trust with my students and take interest in their interests right away, so much more learning happens. With remote teaching, I have had to get creative in building these relationships; however, it is possible! This pandemic has also helped me to think about the different tools and resources technology provides when teaching. At first, it was really difficult to take what I had planned for in-person teaching and turn it into something valuable for remote teaching. I have quickly found that in some cases, with the right technology and resources, lessons can be just as effective, if not more effective, with remote teaching.
What activities/organizations were you involved in on campus during your undergraduate career?
I was highly involved in Camp Kesem at UNL during my undergraduate career. I served as a counselor my first year, Volunteer Coordinator for two years, and a Co-Director my last year.
What’s next?
After graduation, I plan to pursue an elementary or special education position near the Nashville area.
Madeline Hoffman
Derby, Kansas | Communication Sciences & Disorders (Education Studies minor)
What was the biggest factor in you choosing Nebraska for your undergraduate studies?
When I had my visit at Nebraska, everything seemed to fall into place for me. Even more, I know they have a wonderful SLP program.
What made you interested in studying speech-language pathology?
I love the flexibility that this career offers. The different clientele and work environments, and the way you can be a constantly growing professional throughout the career as well.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you will provide speech-language pathology services in the future?
The pandemic has made me realize how crucial and needed the field of speech-language pathology is. SLPs are in the front lines of the care, and needed more than ever.
What activities/organizations were you involved in on campus during your undergraduate career?
Alpha Xi Delta, Focus Greek, National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSLHA), and various honors societies.
What’s next?
I am starting graduate school at Kansas State University in January to pursue my master’s in speech-language pathology.
Logan Kirk
Lincoln, Nebraska | Elementary & Special Education (K-6)
What was the biggest factor in you choosing Nebraska for your undergraduate studies?
I had always wanted to go to a four-year university and wanted to stay close to my family and friends. I heard about how good the teaching program was at Nebraska so the decision was made easy!
What made you interested in studying special education?
I had some really good friends and teachers growing up that lead me in the direction of special education. I have always loved helping and teaching people (kids especially) and the area of special education always fascinated me!
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you will educate special education students?
I have had to think in ways I never thought I would have if there wasn’t a pandemic. I have had to think about the students that are medically fragile and how I can best support them in the case that they go distance learning. Also, how I can keep them as safe as possible in the school environment while still learning.
What activities/organizations were you involved in on campus during your undergraduate career?
I was a part of Greek life (Alpha Tau Omega) and intramural sports, and did countless other activities the university offered.
What’s next?
My plans include teaching directly following graduation at the school where I did my student teaching, then finding a permanent teaching position in Lincoln for the fall of 2021.
Sage Kraft
Battle Creek, Nebraska | Elementary & Special Education (K-6)
What was the biggest factor in you choosing Nebraska for your undergraduate studies?
I knew UNL was right for me when I went on my college visit and saw the resources and opportunities the campus has to offer.
What made you interested in studying special education?
I am a firm believer that education is for everyone and that everyone can learn. I knew that I wanted to make a difference in students’ lives and help each student reach their full potential.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you will educate special education students?
The pandemic has forced me out of my comfort zone in teaching and helped me find new activities and resources to help educate my students.
What activities/organizations were you involved in on campus during your undergraduate career?
I was involved in both the NEA and the Student Council for Exceptional Children.
What’s next?
I plan to return to northeast Nebraska to find a job in either special education or elementary education.
Katelyn Pick
Columbus, Nebraska | Communication Sciences & Disorders (Education minor)
What was the biggest factor in you choosing Nebraska for your undergraduate studies?
From the moment I stepped on campus, I knew it was the place for me. My parents are both UNL alumni, and I wanted to continue the tradition by pursuing further education here. I have enjoyed every second of it!
What made you interested in studying speech-language pathology?
I grew up knowing that I had a desire to support people and help them become the best person they could be. The area of speech-language pathology is somewhere that I know I can continue to increase my interest and passion for helping others develop their skills and flourish in doing so.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you will provide speech-language pathology services in the future?
A skill that has really proven helpful in the pandemic is the ability to be flexible. In the future when I’m working with clients, being adaptable is something that will be extremely valuable.
What activities/organizations were you involved in on campus during your undergraduate career?
I was involved in Pi Alpha Chi sorority, the Down Syndrome Association for Families Book Club, UNL’s National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association, Relay for Life, and the Newman Center, along with lots of research for the College of Education and Human Sciences!
What’s next?
I am currently applying to graduate schools that will start in the fall, but in the meantime, I have accepted a job as a substitute elementary teacher with Lincoln Public Schools. I started in December and have already learned so much and the experiences will be so helpful in making me become a successful graduate student and future speech-language pathologist!
Kelsey Safarik
Farwell, Nebraska | Elementary & Special Education (K-6)
What was the biggest factor in you choosing Nebraska for your undergraduate studies?
I chose Nebraska for my undergraduate studies because it has an atmosphere that is second to none. I also loved all the opportunities and experiences that UNL had to offer.
What made you interested in studying special education?
I became interested in special education because I found that this is an area of education that I am passionate about. Special education is presented with unique learners and I love trying to find new ways for them to learn!
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you will educate special education students?
One thing I really had to think more about while teaching in a pandemic was how to plan instruction. The uncertainty of not knowing when things will go remote adds an extra step to planning because you can make that transition from in-person learning to remote learning at any moment and you need to be prepared.
What activities/organizations were you involved in on campus during your undergraduate career?
During my undergraduate career I was involved with the UNL Student Council for Exceptional Children.
What’s next?
After graduation I plan to substitute teach in Nebraska Public Schools. Then I plan to get a full-time teaching position beginning in Fall 2021.
Ann Teigland
Minden, Nebraska | Master of Education in Special Education: Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
What was the biggest factor in your decision to pursue a master’s degree in special education at Nebraska?
The opportunity to participate in the Mid-Plains Professional Upgrade Partnership–Sensory Disabilities (MPUP-SD) grant, and that I was able to complete my degree online while still working full-time.
What made you interested in becoming a special education teacher?
I had opportunities to build relationships and work with individuals with disabilities as a child and throughout high school that inspired me. My experiences during my undergraduate program solidified my desire to become a special education teacher.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you will educate special education students?
Students who are deaf or hard of hearing are having to navigate our new world where everyone wears a mask, which can cause difficulties and barriers in communication. The pandemic has pushed me to increase my collaboration with families and teachers. Collaboration to problem solve and ensure all students have access to meaningful instruction and conversations despite changes in learning environments, social opportunities, and masks.
What’s next?
I will be continuing in my current role as Special Education Teacher and Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at Papillion La Vista Community School District.
Special Education and Communication Disorders