Student Spotlight Emma Hardway
Elementary Education
Class: 2027
Hardway's passion for education shines through at WVU
It seems like Emma Hardway has known two things for about as long as she can remember: She's always wanted to be a Mountaineer, and she's always wanted to be a teacher. Her passion for the profession remains strong, and the sentiment that it's a prerequisite has been enforced by her residency experience and her mentor teachers. She's looking forward to a career where she will continue to educate the next generation, both in West Virginia, but also abroad as well.
Why did you choose WVU?
I chose WVU because it had been my dream school for as long as I could remember. My family would watch football games every Saturday when I was growing up and I knew that I wanted to be there in person one day to be able to experience being a true Mountaineer.
Why did you decide to major in elementary education?
I knew that I wanted to be a teacher from the time I was old enough to know that I had a choice to be one. I have always loved working with young children, and my passion grows for the field more each day. I hope to not only be a teacher to my students but to be someone that they can look up to.
How do you think the elementary education program prepares you to step into a classroom upon graduation?
One of the biggest ways the elementary program prepares me is through the four semesters of field placement and student teaching. Although this is my first semester, I’ve already learned so many things from my mentor teacher that you can’t get unless you’re in the classroom. It’s amazing to step in and watch and help the students you work with. Getting the opportunity to ‘be like the teacher’ will always be one of the greatest feelings as a future teacher.
What are some valuable lessons or skills that you’ve learned during your coursework and field experiences that stand out?
A valuable lesson that will always stand out to me came from my mentor teacher during my field placement. She told me you can always tell by the way someone walks into the classroom on their first day whether they’re made for this and carry the passion inside them. That has stayed with me. I want to always carry myself as the person who holds the passion for teaching deep inside. I am reminded that even on the hard days that this is what I was meant to do.
How have your field placements challenged you, and what makes that experience so valuable?
The biggest challenge is managing your time and keeping a sechedule for yourself, schoolwork, your placement, and anything else that may be in your life. The biggest benefit from the field placements is simply the experience itself. Being able to be in the classroom and receiving guidance before being on your own is such a valuable experience. I think it is amazing that our school and program go above and beyond for their students in education to give them these opportunities to become the best teacher they can be, especially right after graduation.
How do you manage your time?
I balance my personal life and school life with the perfect mix of both. I know when it’s time to do my schoolwork and not only keep up good grades, but keep a positive student attitude as well. School can be frustrating when things pile up, but that’s when having a good personal-life balance helps. You can relax with your friends and have a school-free evening. I love being able to hang out with my friends and family while still keeping my schoolwork on track. The library is always a good place to find the happy medium during a busy week because there’s no better study partner than your bestie!
What do you think separates this program from others?
I think the love and support WVU programs offer is what makes this place special. I know our program has a great reputation, and it's because the professors aren't just here to teach you, they are here to help you. Our advisors also provide us with great support and guidance.
Why do you think education is such an important field?
Becoming a teacher is more than just helping young minds learn. Some students need more than a teacher in the classroom, they need someone that they know cares about their success, is there for them, and is always there cheering for them. Not every child has someone loving to go home to and somewhere warm to go. The classroom is the place where all students should feel the safest, especially with their teacher. Teachers are such special people, and it takes a loving heart to truly value what you do beyond the classroom door for your students.
What are your goals after graduation? Do you plan to stay in West Virginia to teach?
I plan to stay in West Virginia for a while after graduation to teach, but my dream is to travel to Africa and help in an education program over there to give those children an opportunity with their education they may not have access to like kids do here. I want to grow minds all over the world, and it starts here in West Virginia.
What’s the best thing about being a Mountaineer?
The best thing about being a Mountaineer is the familiarity of being back home. I’m from a school community filled with Mountaineer fans, and being here makes me feel like I’m still with my family, especially on a fall evening walking across campus. I will always say, ‘country roads, take me home.’