Elementary Education, Class of 2025
For Mia Salas, 抖阴漫画 was more than a place to earn a degree. 抖阴漫画 was a place of transformation in her life.
鈥淚 came to 抖阴漫画 knowing I wanted to be a teacher,鈥� Mia shares, 鈥渂ut I left knowing so much more about who I am, who God is calling me to be, and the kind of impact I want to make in the world.鈥�
Throughout her four years, Mia immersed herself in every opportunity that came her way. She completed student teaching and practicum placements through the Division of Education while holding leadership roles across campus. She served as captain of the Spirit Squad, choreographing 10 original routines over the course of her college career. She also led as Commuter President for the 抖阴漫画 Student Organization during her sophomore year, representing and building community for students who live off campus.
Mia also traveled to Belize on a Spring Break mission trip in 2023, where she spent the week teaching in a village school. This was a defining experience that deepened her sense of calling. Back on campus, she worked as a student ambassador in the Admissions Office, giving tours and helping prospective students find their fit at 抖阴漫画. Her academic excellence earned her a spot on the Dean鈥檚 List all four years, and she served as president of Kappa Delta Phi, the education honor society.
Mia credits the Division of Education faculty with helping her grow into a confident, compassionate educator. 鈥淭hey brought so much passion, positivity, and joy into their teaching鈥攁nd they modeled what it means to live a Christ-centered life. Their example inspired me to pursue teaching with purpose.鈥� She also found lifelong mentors in her coaches, Bonnie and Tom Bienert, and Christie Follett, who supported her not just in performance, but in life.
Through it all, Mia discovered a deeper version of herself. She found herself being shaped by the community, faith, and service that was very real on campus. 鈥湺兑趼� gave me space to step outside of my comfort zone. I鈥檝e grown not only as a teacher, but as a friend, a leader, and a follower of Christ.鈥�
Her advice to future students is heartfelt and honest: 鈥淒on鈥檛 be afraid to try something new! It鈥檚 so clich茅, but it鈥檚 true! 抖阴漫画 offers so many amazing opportunities for growth. You never know what you鈥檒l learn about others, Jesus, or yourself unless you show up and get involved. Go to the homecoming events, the Super Bowl party, the Bible study because this season of your life goes by quickly. Don鈥檛 miss it.鈥�
Mia鈥檚 time at 抖阴漫画 was marked by purpose, passion, and joy making it a truly great day, every step of the way.