2021-2022 Graduate Student Ambassadors- Emily Braren

Program Area of Study

M.S. in New Literacies and Global Learning, Curriculum and Instruction

Bio

Emily Braren serves as a liaison for NC State’s Graduate Student Association. She is currently working on an M.S. in New Literacies and Global Learning with the College of Education where her research focuses on the development of critical thinking skills in the classroom. She also teaches 7th-grade social studies full time and enjoys hiking, reading, and traveling. She looks forward to getting to know the graduate students of NC State and serving our community well. 

Why NC State?

I chose to pursue graduate studies at NC State because of the rigor, resources, and people NC State has to offer. Our school has some of the best and brightest minds in the world, and I’ve truly met amazing people here. NC State has also provided me with ample opportunities for research, professional communities I can come to for any question, and resources for continuing my education and career. NC State has created an incredibly supportive and caring community for their graduate students, and has truly fostered my growth as an educator. 

One insight gained so far…

I believe that the most important thing I have learned about diversity, equity, justice, and inclusion while at NC State is that there is always room for growth and improvement. We must hold ourselves and each other accountable for ensuring that diversity, equity, justice, and inclusion remain pillars of our community at NC State. It is vital for a more equitable future for all, and as the next leaders in our chosen fields, it is up to us to be progressive and actionable in these practices. Our journey is not linear, we will make mistakes along the way, we will get frustrated, and we will be confronted with hard truths. However, it is important to recognize our mistakes and our stressors and take action to change the misjustices we see within ourselves, our fields of studies, and the broader community. We can be the change we want to see, so long as we commit to doing so in an honest and accountable manner.