Amanda RudyEarly Childhood Education, Class of 2012
Why did you choose Lasell College?
I came into Lasell undeclared, but I did like their vast option of majors. I also loved the fact Lasell was set into a small neighborhood so it has the comfortable, rural feel and yet you can hop on the T and experience city life just as easily. Lasell has the best of both worlds!
What is your favorite part of your major?
My favorite part of being an education major is the experiences we get. We are able to be in a classroom, working with the kids just as a teacher does and this happens right away in our major. We learn through doing and it's great we can apply everything we learn so quickly or even as we learn it.
What has been your favorite class so far and why?
My favorite class has been my honors class junior year. We watched a television show called The Wire for which the class was named, but it was so much more than just watching a show. The show displayed issues with race, poverty and other controversial issues. As a class, we discussed those issues and even found ways to relate them to the Lasell community and our own hometowns. It was such a down to earth, honest class and we were able to discuss things most majors don't get a chance to delve into.
Do you have a favorite professor? Why?
My favorite professor would have to be Professor Amy Maynard. She was the first education professor I had and one that teaches many of our classes. She is so enthusiastic about the education profession and really helps us to succeed. When we were all taking the MTEL's she worked with us both as a class and individually if we wanted to, to make sure we were well prepared.
What is an example of Connected Learning that you have experienced?
In my biology class we were learning about various types of trees and such in the environment. We went to a bird sanctuary and found various birds and trees we were learning about and then we started a project on campus. We were to make a tree inventory for the state to use in their records. We were each given a section of campus and from what we learned at the sanctuary and through class we had to input data into an inventory that our teacher went over and sent to the state. It was really amazing knowing that what my class did was actually going to be used by the state.
What is an internship or volunteer experience that you have completed?
As an education major our internships are our pre-practicums. We are placed into a classroom by our professors and have to complete so many lessons and requirements every semester. My favorite has probably been this past semester where I was in a kindergarten classroom for 2 full days out of the week. I love working with younger children and this class was a perfect fit for me! My supervising teacher was amazing and let me do a lot of things on my own and provided a lot of support.
What kinds of clubs and activities are you involved in?
I have been a tutor and coordinator for America Reads and have been on CAB. I have worked at the Barn and am in the Honors Program. I have also studied abroad, which I would highly recommend to everyone; you get so many opportunities and experiences going to another country.
What is one of your favorite memories so far at Lasell?
I have many favorites so I'll choose one. Lasell holds a trip to New York City every winter and all my friends and I went freshman year. We were able to see the city decorated for the holidays and my family met up with us and took us out for lunch. It was such an exciting day and Lasell made it possible. Giving us trips like this certainly makes the college experience that much better.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
My favorite spot would have to be Taylor or Grellier Fields. Although I'm not an athlete, they are great places to go whether there's a game being played or not; if there is, all the better. You can catch up with friends, and cheer on your team. When there's not a game, both fields are great to relax on a nice day or even do some homework or reading.
What has been your favorite on-campus event?
One of my favorite on-campus events has been the Spring Carnival we hold at the end of every year. Every year I've been here it has gotten better and it is such a great way to relax. The weather has always been great for it too which really makes a spring carnival. Enjoy the weather, enjoy the food and activities and it's just a good time to hang out with friends.
What kinds of things do you like to do on-campus?
Sports events are always fun to attend, I love going with friends to cheer on the team. My friend and I also like to do dinner nights, cooking in the houses we live in. We love cooking dinner, and usually people trickle in wanting to join!
What kinds of things do you like to do off-campus?
I like to go into Boston when I can get off campus. You can do so much in the city, from shopping to walking by the water to enjoying a pastry in the North End. I love every part of the city, I can always find something to suite my mood.
How has Lasell prepared you for the future?
Being an education major, Lasell puts you into a classroom right away. We stay in classrooms all throughout our college career too. In a field like teaching, experience is definitely the best way to learn and Lasell gives you plenty of opportunities! I think in doing this, I will be that much more prepared when I become a teacher of my own classroom someday.
What is something you would tell a prospective student who is considering coming to Lasell College?
No matter what major you want to study, you will have the most amazing experiences and opportunities. Being a smaller school near a big city, we get so many opportunities that will give you that experience you need and want. The best way to learn is by doing something and Lasell gives you that for sure!
