By Lauren Huffman
"When the first meeting students ISU, I'm still thinking how students and even view teaching through the eyes of a student. But by the time they graduate, they're thinking as teachers and research to teaching as a teacher. The challenge that is before them, but they are ready to take it. Being a part of that, being able to see them grow and understand the challenge and be prepared to undertake, is very exciting and I'm happy to say that I have had a small part in it all. "— Maureen Smith, advisor, Curriculum & education
(8 February 2010) Maureen Smith's love for his work is evident. She is eager to talk about his work and lights up when she talks about students that you have the opportunity to work with.
She believes that there is something that sets Major education apart from the rest, that have a uniqueness that qualification for teaching. She also believes in his students. "Those who become teachers and continue teaching have a rare quality of personality, perseverance and a love of learning. Who want to contribute to society and believe that all children can learn and go the extra mile or two to find a way to make learning happen. "
"I am proud to be part of this noble profession," he adds.
And she is proud to be part of a renowned Institute, too. Smith, an ISU student itself, you feel gratified when teachers and principals across the State that applicants of a teacher of ISU are better prepared. "It's exciting to be part of this great tradition and knowing that the University is still, even after all these years, doing a great job of preparing teachers."
Although she maintains a passion for the profession and teachers, Smith not expected herself working in the field of education. "After a few semesters in greater wrong, I knew that there was no fighting, are born to be a teacher and I better just accept the fact and prepare myself for that task. I switched my major to history education. That was more than 25 years ago and I never regretted taking that decision. "
Smith has taught students of all ages, including junior high, high school, Community College, and then she eventually came to ISU Department of Curriculum and instruction. Since then went on to do mainly academic advisement. Although still teaches a course in one semester, a C & I course focusing on current issues in education. When asked if you miss the classroom, Maureen responded with, "I teach every day, which is often only one against one."
Smith works with students, helping them navigate the path to the main training teachers who have chosen to pursue. Combined, the C & advisors advise over 1,800 students in Cecilia j. Lauby Teacher Education Center. For some, this volume of students might seem daunting. But Smith relishes the opportunity to watch students entering in his Office grow into successful teachers. He mentions the "difficult to quantify" who own Major education teacher, which these students feel the call to become teachers. Smith enjoys watching everything click for them.
"I like the details, challenges, and students, and when you put them all together, it's very exciting when the puzzle fits together.
Occasionally, students of Smith tackling Difficulties as they pursue their academic studies. Students might have to do with a life-changing event, which may stop their plan of study. However, Smith considers this as an opportunity to lend a hand where needed. "Assess the situation and come up with a plan that they can handle," he says. "See them to realize their dream is very satisfactory."
In addition to consulting and teaching, Smith keeps herself busy with projects and service work. Right now, she is in the process of developing a manual of advice that will serve as a reference for students to search for information that is often difficult to find. She claims that the book, "will not in any way replace a consultant, but in this age of information, students should be able to feel a little more in control."
Smith also works with the Golden Apple Foundation in Chicago, offering scholarships for students who agree to teach in a school of need for at least five years. The organization also selects the class teachers who Excel in their work and granting sabbatical for them to continue their training. "Part of this evaluation process is very thorough and interesting and rewarding."
As you look back on almost 16 years in the College of Education, his greatest accomplishment is witnessing hundreds of students graduate and enter the teaching profession. "It is exciting to see young students, eager to train to be teachers of the leaders of tomorrow".
Smith has been awarded just recently the grass Sanders Award for Outstanding Academic Advisement, a prize which annually recognizes a consultant who demonstrates a considerate attitude towards students, demonstrating assertiveness in their contact with students and supports the campus-wide academic advisement. This honor is especially validation for Smith because it has been designated to her colleagues. "It is gratifying that humiliating others, who do this work in other departments, to recognize you and your abilities. It was worth all the headaches and frustrations when you know what it makes a difference in the lives of others. "
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