Sydney Summers exudes enthusiasm for education. Now student teaching in a fifth-grade classroom at Berry College Elementary School, she loves working with young students. Last summer, Sydney enriched skills with an immersive study abroad in Ecuador sponsored by the education department. She looks back on this formative experience and embraces the excitement of what’s ahead in her career.
What was the focus of your teaching in Ecuador?
I had the opportunity to actively engage in the education system and develop my skills as a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) teacher. This trip focused on immersing us in diverse cultures and schools to so that we could actively apply our teaching skills. Most importantly, it pushed me out of my comfort zone, allowing me to engage with students from different backgrounds and gain insight into how my own perspectives influence my teaching.
Briefly describe what you applied in the classroom.
I worked with first-grade students in Ecuador. To engage the various language proficiency levels and developmental levels, I utilized images and gestures to support understanding. Games were another effective method to support understanding with students. By the end of our time, all of the students had developed their English skills of listening and speaking!
Tell us about your current teaching at Berry College Elementary School.
I have a couple of students in my class that are bilingual and require additional support in some subjects. With my experience in linguistics and TEFL, I am able to apply these practices into lessons to best support my ESL students.
What do you anticipate after graduation?
In the future, I would love to teach second grade. At this age, curiosity and abstract thinking are constantly developing, so it makes conversations and lessons more fun. They are still small and sweet but have a level of exciting independence.
Any advice for students pursuing a career in education?
I truly think studying abroad is such an impactful experience for education majors. Having the opportunity to teach in another country, see their methods and engage with diverse students prepares you for teaching in a way that nothing else can. Teaching requires adaptability, and trips like Ecuador allow you to develop skills to meet students’ needs and engage their culture in new ways.
