Caitlyn Frazier ’24: ‘I Chose Elementary Education Because I Have Always Had a Passion to Teach Kids’

Caitlyn Frazier ’24 always knew she wanted to be a teacher and was able to use NC State’s Community College Collaboration (C3) dual enrollment program to transfer into the College of Education.

Since then, Frazier has gained student teaching experience in North Carolina and South Africa, which will prepare her to step into the classroom once she graduates with her bachelor’s degree in elementary education. 

Hometown: Goldsboro, North Carolina

Major: Elementary Education

Why did you choose education? 

I chose elementary education because I have always had a passion to teach kids, and I knew I wanted to make an impact on students’ lives, whether it’s educational or in life. When I was in first grade, I got held back and felt less than and embarrassed when seeing my friend move on to second grade. So, as a result of that, I have always wanted to teach elementary education and make sure I can help children feel cared for and appreciated, no matter what.

What’s your next step? What do you have planned after graduation?

I have been given a job opportunity to teach first grade at the school where I have been student teaching and plan on accepting!

How has the College of Education prepared you for that next step?

The College of Education has prepared me enormously. When people think of teaching elementary, most who aren’t in education think it’s as easy as teaching ABCs and 123s, but after going through this program, I have learned it is extremely challenging and not for the faint of heart. Without NC State, I would not have been given the job opportunity I have been given.

What do you eventually hope to accomplish in your field? 

I just want my students to come into my classroom knowing that it is their home away from home, and I am there for them regardless of what is going on educationally and personally.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the College of Education?

Student teaching abroad in South Africa! The kids in South Africa were the sweetest kids ever and accepted me from day one! I got to compare how kindergarten is taught in South Africa vs. in America. It was interesting to see the similarities and differences between the two grades! It is amazing to be able to incorporate things I have learned in South Africa into my own classroom. It is an experience I will never forget and always be grateful for.

Tell us about an experience you had with the College of Education that had the biggest impact on you or your career.

Student teaching! This is where I have really learned the most and put my studies into practice. I have learned patience, grace and practice is essential when teaching. I have failed many times when teaching lessons but my students always gave me grace. I have had the best time with my kids and watching them grow as a class as well as individually. The best thing about teaching is seeing the growth of students regardless of how much.