Emma Larsson practically grew up at GMercyU. Her first visit occurred when she was just three weeks old when her mom was a business student.
As I grew up, we were a GMercyU family. I always knew everything about the campus and the different changes and services. When I decided to switch my major from Nursing to Education, GMercyU was the first school that I looked at. When I came on a tour, I felt like I was home.
“I chose Education because I want to be a teacher that advocates for students who are not able to advocate for themselves. When I was younger I was diagnosed with an Auditory Processing Disorder, a learning disorder. I had teachers make sure that I never felt different, and I want to be able to do that for other students,” Emma said.
Educational Experience
Emma has nothing short of amazing things to say about her experience in the program so far. The more classes she takes and the more work she does through the Education Outreach Club, the more excited she is to become a teacher.
“Two professors that have stood out to me are Ms. Mary Jo Pierantozzi and Mrs. Marianne Boyd. While these professors were teaching, they showed me the true meaning of being a teacher. Ms. Pierantozzi and Mrs. Boyd were professors that helped push me out of my comfort zone and help me with being the confident student that I am.” Emma said.
Experience in TAP
Since day one of being an Education student, Emma has participated in the Teacher Apprentice Program (TAP). So far, she has completed five placements with different responsibilities at each. Some of her responsibilities include assisting the teacher with a variety of activities, administering tests, and reading to the students. She has also helped with students’ morning routine and taking them to lunch or specials.
“During these times, I have learned many different things about how a classroom flows well. I also experience what a teacher’s day looks like while the students are not with them through parent teacher conferences and grade meetings,” Emma said.
Campus Experience
“My favorite part about GMercyU are the connections that I have made. I have made friends that I will have for life. I have also been able to work with different faculty and staff on campus that have helped me push myself out of my comfort zone,” Emma said. “Through all the connections that I have made, it has made me feel like part of a family and also have amazing resources.”
Emma currently services as the Vice President of Education Outreach Club and as President of Disability Pride Club. In fall 2022, she served as an Orientation Leader and in fall 2023 transitioned to the role of Orientation Assistant.
I would recommend GMercyU to all students that are looking for a college where they are making a difference and feel like they matter as a student.
Post-Graduation
Emma is expected to graduate in December 2025 and hopes to secure a position in a local public school working with special needs students at the elementary level. She also hopes to travel to Europe.
“As for a dream job, I was told about an opportunity with the U.S. Military as a contractor to be a teacher on a military base. That has been an opportunity that I plan on pursuing at some point in my teaching career,” Emma said.
