Kristen Toussaint ‘04

Elementary Education Major

My name is Kristen Toussaint, and I grew up in a small town in southern Maine called North Berwick. Currently, I am a senior elementary education major at the University of New England. When I graduate in May of 2004, I will be certified to teach kindergarten through eighth grade anywhere in Maine and 44 other states.

I began to think about what I wanted to do with my life in junior high. From the time that I was young, I have always enjoyed being around children and was told by family members that I was good with young children. I began thinking about going into education the summer before my freshman year in high school. That particular summer, I worked at a summer camp in my hometown. I extremely enjoyed this experience and loved being with children all day long. From that summer on, I continued to take pleasure in spending time with children, and that is why I chose to go into education.

Friends and Memories
toussaintAs a student at the University of New England, I have had a blast. I have made friends and memories that I will never forget. There is always something going on that I can be involved in. The University of New England, from the time that I got here until now, has made my college experience a comfortable one. I like the fact that when I walk on campus, I will always run into someone I know. I never feel like I am getting lost in the crowd. There is a real sense of community at UNE.

I have been pleased not only with the campus but also with the Education Department. I like the fact that I began getting involved in the classroom my freshman year. We went and observed a variety of grade levels. This allowed me to decide that I want to teach kindergarten through second grade. The education teachers are wonderful at the University of New England. They are always willing to help you if you are struggling with an assignment. They make you think about what it is really going to be like in the classroom and how you are going to do things when you are finally put in front of 15 five-year olds. I also like the fact that I see the same people in all of my classes. I have gotten to know several of my peers who are going to teach very well.

School Observations
I will not start my student teaching until the spring. However, I can tell you that you will gain a lot from the observations that you do. By observing, I was able to figure out that I really did want to teach. This is important because some people get into the classroom and realize they don’t want to teach.

Although I am not sure exactly where I want to teach, I do know that when I graduate I want to teach in New England, and I will most likely begin my teaching career in Maine. I plan to teach for a few years and then get my master’s in education. I feel that it is important to keep learning. If you really like children and want to go to a university where everyone knows you, the University of New England could be just the right school for you.

(Last updated 10/02)    
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