#WhyIChoseEducation: Patrick Holmes ’12 MSA

As part of Celebrating 90 Years of NC State Education, we asked you to share your stories of why you chose education and why you love the NC State College of Education. Below is one of the many stories we received demonstrating how we’re leading the way in education in North Carolina and beyond.

Name: Patrick Holmes 
Graduation Year: 2012
Department/Program: Masters in School Administration
Career Role & Responsibilities: I currently serve as the principal of South Elementary School In Person County, North Carolina.

Why did you enter the field of education?
I began teaching in Person County in 2003 after earning my degree in education at Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York. I have taught middle school and high school. During my time at the high school, I taught world history, civics, coached baseball, football and served as the advisor to the Key Club. When I began the masters of administration program at NC State, I immediately recognized the value of this program and the instruction and training provided.

Why did you choose to earn your degree from the NC State College of Education?
When I first learned of the distance education program offered by NC State, I was immediately excited about the opportunity. After meeting with representatives from the university and learning more about the program I was sold. I found the program to be beneficial to my growth in understanding of school and instructional leadership. I hope to return soon to seek my doctorate.