We are beginning a new weekly series to introduce students who are completing internships and student teaching placements. Watch for our weekly postings to read about student experiences.
Meredith Cinnamon - Family & Consumer Sciences Student Teacher
Meredith Cinnamon is a Family and Consumer Sciences Education and Merchandising, Apparel, and Textiles double major who is currently completing her student teaching. Her cooperating teachers are Kayla Godby at Boyle County High School and Mandy Byrne at Boyle County Middle School. In an electronic interview, she shares her experiences:
What is your typical day as a student teacher?
"There is no "typical" day as a student teacher. However, most days have the same basic routine. I arrive when my cooperating teacher arrives to review and finish any preparations for the day's lessons. Before I know it, I am surrounded by my lovely students, yes lovely! They are the reasons why I do what I do. The day consists of 5 block periods, a 30 minute lunch, and one planning period. The classes fly by, especially if I am teaching, and before I know it the bell has rung. However, the teacher's job is not finished just yet. Emails must be read and responded to, and papers must be graded before my day is truly over."
Could you please share something you learned in class that you are using often in your student teaching placement?
"The seating chart has become my best friend and go-to classroom management technique."
What do you enjoy most about student teaching?
I enjoy the relationships that I have and continue to build with the students the most."
If you could share one piece of advice for other students preparing to student teach or complete an internship, what would it be?
"Let the experience come to you. Oftentimes, I would find myself fretting over what might or might not occur during my student teaching experience. The most important thing to remember is that it is a learning experience. You may not realize it at the time, but it is molding you into a stronger professional and building your leadership skills each day."