After the Great Recession and years of teacher layoffs, school districts are finally hiring again—and facing a nationwide shortage of educators. In an increasingly digital world, teaching is one of the most meaningful and distinctly human vocations available. American historian Henry Adams once said, “A teacher affects eternity. He can never tell where his influence stops.” If you are considering a career in teaching, Mount Saint Mary College (MSMC) in Newburgh may be a good fit for you.
With accelerated, standard, and part-time options, you can earn your education degree in a timeframe that works for you. For high school graduates, there is also a fast-tracked, five-year program that combines undergrad and masters education.
Matt Frey, director of Media Relations at MSMC, is himself a graduate of the school’s teaching program, who enjoyed the school so much he never left. “What I liked best about the education program is that our professors were so willing to spend the time and get to know every individual,” Frey says. Small class sizes of 15 to 20 students facilitate personalized, one-on-one attention. “You are not just a number,” he adds. “If you wanted more in-depth information on anything, the professors were always very friendly and able to help out in a way that you wouldn’t see at larger colleges.”
The program, which is over 50 years old, is esteemed for its proficient graduates. Regional learning institutions are stacked with MSMC alum, so it’s not uncommon for students to do their internships under a fellow knight (their mascot). “Mount teachers have a reputation for being well-trained and ready to perform without hesitation,” Frey says. “I’ve seen some of the individuals who go through this program in action—they are dynamite.”
Every year Mount Saint Mary gives out $20 million in merit-based scholarships, with a significant portion allocated to the education program. Frey advises prospective students, “If you think you are cut out to be a teacher, follow your dreams.”
Mount Saint Mary College will host an information session on Saturday, June 30, from 11am to 2pm on campus at 330 Powell Avenue, Newburgh.
Learn more at Mount Saint Mary’s website.
This article appears in June 2018.
