Thomas Carrington ’19MAT: I Chose Elementary Education Because I Wanted to Educate Children, Help Them Overcome Obstacles and Help Them Discover the Joys in the World

The NC State College of Education will graduate 157 students Dec. 19, 2019. This is part of a series of profiles with some members of the Class of 2019 who will walk cross the stage this December. 

Name: Thomas Carrington ’19MAT

Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.

Area of Study: Elementary Education

Activities (Research or Extracurricular): I have been an active member of the Chinese Undergraduate Student Association (CUSA), volunteer frequently for Habitat for Humanity, tutor international students on English grammar and customs, and play ultimate frisbee, football and basketball as hobbies in my free time in Cary Park.

Why did you choose your area of study? I chose elementary education because I wanted to educate children, help them overcome obstacles, and help them discover the joys in the world and understand the world around them. When I was a student in elementary school, I struggled with social studies and speech. My teacher, Ms. Wiggins, helped me overcome my challenges; and without her support, I wouldn’t be who I am today. I also want to become a role model for my family and prospective educators or individuals interested in a career in education.

What’s your next step after graduation? I will pursue jobs at international schools in Taiwan and Vietnam and also look at working in advisor positions or at independent schools in North Carolina. I will also continue working on a passion project focused on the inclusion of Chinese culture and individuals within the Raleigh and Durham communities.

How has the NC State College of Education prepared you for that next step? The courses I have taken as a student in the College of Education have helped me understand what it takes to become an elementary school teacher. I have learned how to lesson plan according to N.C. Standards, how to facilitate learning to a variety of students, how to close educational gaps, how to manage time effectively and how to build a rapport with parents, faculty and staff. I am very thankful for the College of Education, as it has equipped me with the necessary tools and skills to inspire learning among my future students.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the NC State College of Education? Getting the chance to study abroad in China was an eye-opening experience that I will cherish forever. I learned so much about education in other countries and how to communicate effectively with individuals who are different from me. 

Why did you choose education? I chose education because I love helping others and working with children and adults! Every day, we learn something new. Education is the key to success in all areas of life. Nothing warms my heart more than seeing a child get it. Education is an honorable career, where I can see its immediate impact. I have had experiences tutoring and volunteering with children and adults, and education combines both of my worlds.