Brian Hoffman '20

Major: Elementary Education
Minor: Early Childhood

Why this major?

The reason I chose this major started back in grade school. My third-grade teacher had such an impact on my education. She took the time to know each and every student, and she made learning fun. I always looked forward to going to school. She made me a better student, even if I didn't see it right away. After being in her class, I knew I wanted to become a teacher. I wanted to make students excited to come to school and give them the help they need to succeed.

What is your career objective?

My career objective is to teach kindergarten or first grade. I would like to spend five to 10 years in the classroom, then move up the chain to principal, then superintendent, and so forth. I’d like to do this because I could impact more students. If I could move up to a higher position, I could meet with every teacher and ensure each student was getting the resources and help they needed to do well in school.

How has what you’ve learned prepared you for your future?

I am always learning something new in different courses. Every day I am adding more information and scaffolding to my previous knowledge.

Have you had opportunities to work closely with Carroll faculty?

Having small class sizes has really benefited me. I don't feel like I am just another student. I feel what I have to say is valued, and the teachers take the time to answer all my questions. Having a close relationship with my teachers has been beneficial because I feel I can voice my thoughts in class without fear of judgement. This has given me the opportunity to see the kind of relationship I want to have with my students. I want them to be comfortable and trust me when talking about different situations.

How has Carroll enriched your growth as a person?

Carroll has enriched my growth as a person by allowing me to play two sports, soccer and lacrosse. I have made many friends throughout the season, some of whom I believe will be lifelong friends. The pre-game rituals and late-night practices have helped me to be more flexible and organized with my time. I also will never forget the places that we traveled to like Illinois, Texas and all the places in between. This has taught me to enjoy each and every moment in the present. I’ve learned not to think too much ahead or dwell on the past. What’s done is done, and you can't do anything to change that.

What would you say to someone considering elementary education?

I would tell them to go for it. Don't second-guess yourself. You will make so many friends and grow with them each year. Not only that, you are helping to change the future. Through education, you can teach the next generation and set them up for success. The students we teach could become the next president, invent the cure for cancer or do something remarkable that no one has ever seen before. Think about how we were taught as children. Did you not enjoy a subject or lose interest because a teacher ruined it for you? Let's be the teachers students will remember forever; ones who encourage them to explore their interests without hindering their abilities. Let's have our students enjoy school and look forward to learning each and every day. Let's be the change that we want to see in this world.

How has financial aid made a difference in your life?

Financial aid has made a huge difference in my life. It makes financial stress one less thing I have to worry about. When I work, I don't feel like I'm working just for school. I am able to travel and enjoy activities that I wouldn’t be able to do if I didn't receive some financial assistance.

What’s your favorite place to study on campus?

My favorite place would have to be the Learning Commons. I love sitting in the back. This is because the tables are large enough to spread all my work out without feeling like I’m cramped. The open space also allows me to collaborate with others and talk freely.

Learn more about the Elementary Education program

“Through education, you can teach the next generation and set them up for success.”

— Brian Hoffman '20

Read Brian's story

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