Northwestern State University was originally founded as a college for students pursuing a career in education, making NSU’s College of Education and Human Development a truly unique place. The college provides students with many great opportunities and lots of hands-on experience. If students are unsure about what field of education holds their passion, elective classes are available to help them determine their path. In addition, the College of Education and Human Development’s staff puts students first and wants them to achieve great things.
Kristin Walker is the program coordinator of secondary education and alternative certification and an instructor within the college. “As educators, we are very used to adapting and changing to help meet all our students’ needs. We have advisors for each program, which break down the different sections so we really get to know each student personally,” Walker said. “We want our students to feel comfortable coming to see us. Communication is very important when it comes to our students.”
The College of Education and Human Development focuses on more than just teaching classes. It helps students and educators alike through an organization called Educators Rising. This organization helps aspiring educators get more involved, compete at many different levels and creates wonderful opportunities for members.
To help education majors gain experience in their field, NSU has a middle lab in the education building in which students can observe. The college also offers community service projects and other opportunities for students with social work and psychology majors, giving students a variety of ways for them to explore their interests and even discover new ones.
Olivia Horrell is the president of NSU’s branch of Educator Rising, and she is pursuing a career in elementary education. “This department has been around for a long time and continues to get stronger and grow each year. The staff is so knowledgeable and helpful, and the community this department has here is like no other,” Horrell said.
The College of Education and Human Development at Northwestern State University is much more than just a college department. This college provides its students with real-life experience to help them enter the workforce with incomparable education and teaching skills. The success of its students is of the utmost importance, and the faculty of this college do all they can to ensure their students are qualified and passionate about their work.
