Olivia Marsella won the Board of Governors in-course medal for education (PETER MARVAL/University of Windsor)
By Kate Hargreaves
Bachelor of Education student Olivia Marsella always had a passion for helping others.
In fact, before pursuing teaching, she completed an undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree during which she realized her real passion, even within healthcare, was education.
Marsella, now a second-year teacher candidate in the consecutive Bachelor of Education program at the University of Windsor, was recently awarded the Board of Governors in-course medal for having the highest academic standing in the program.
She took time between courses, practice teaching and tutoring to chat about her love for teaching, how her nursing background contributes to her teacher candidacy and how she maintains balance.
Q: How did you get into the field of education?
Olivia Marsella (OM): My undergraduate degree was in nursing, which is when I discovered my love for helping others through teaching. During this time, I was a peer tutor and general lab peer mentor within the Faculty of Nursing. These positions taught me many skills and opened my eyes to my love for educating others. Additionally, I had many placements in nursing school, which involved caring for children within the local community as well as engaging in health teaching.
Furthermore, before beginning my BEd, I volunteered at a local school and became a tutor for Indigenous Students. These rewarding experiences helped solidify my passion for education and inspired me to apply to the BEd program.
Q: What made you choose primary/junior for your BEd stream?
OM: I love working with young children, and I always have. I volunteered with younger children as a dance coach and in various primary/junior level classrooms. I felt that, based on my interests and experiences, primary/junior would be the best area for me to begin my career. However, there are always opportunities for growth in education, such as through additional qualification courses.
Q: From your three placements so far, do you have an idea of what grade you are hoping to teach?
OM: At first, I thought I would prefer primary, and I do have to admit that I was nervous for my first junior placement in grade 6, but I quickly realized I really loved working with that age group as well. My grade 2, 5 and 6 placements were all such wonderful learning experiences. I would be happy to teach absolutely any grade level because each grade has something special to offer, and you can learn and grow in every division.
Q: Was there anything in placement that surprised you?
OM: What surprised me most about my placement experiences was the extent to which I felt included within the school community during a short period of time. Of course, I anticipated that the local schools, staff, students and administrators would be very welcoming to my fellow teacher candidates and me. However, within each placement, it was wonderful to feel so consistently supported and involved within the school community. I truly could not have asked for better associate teachers during each one of my placements. They were all so knowledgeable and encouraging, and I look up to them as mentors and role models. Overall, I’m looking forward to my last placement!
Q: Do you find you bring what you learned in nursing to teaching?
OM: Completely. Nursing school taught me transferable skills that I did not fully realize until starting my BEd. For example, I learned and can apply many skills such as communication, confidentiality, professionalism, critical thinking, time management and organization. I am grateful for my nursing degree as it taught me many lessons that I can continuously apply to my future profession and life in a way that suits my interests and passions.
Q: Has there been a course that has stood out to you so far in your BEd?
OM: Currently, I am enrolled in a course called Indigenous Ways of Knowing. In my opinion, this course is so important, especially with my background as a tutor for Indigenous students. I think that it is so important that we have courses geared toward Indigenous education so that, as future educators, we have the resources, confidence and knowledge to teach Indigenous education not just in social studies but across all subjects, to take meaningful steps toward truth and reconciliation.
Q: If you had to describe what kind of teacher you are hoping to become, what would you say?
OM: I want to be a teacher who makes everyone feel included. I strive to become a teacher who thoughtfully incorporates culturally diverse materials in the classroom so that every student feels seen, feels heard and feels represented. I believe that for students to fully engage with the material, they must see themselves represented within the classroom. Furthermore, I want to become a teacher who fosters an environment in which every learner can succeed. It is important that, as educators, we differentiate our teaching methods and apply all accommodations and modifications so that every student can reach their goals. Overall, I am hoping and striving to become the teacher who helps guide students to become confident learners.
Q: Do you have any advice for students starting the BEd program?
OM: My advice for those starting in the BEd program is to continue to stay organized and absorb as much information as possible throughout your courses, which will help you to prepare for placements. A lot of the courses that we take provide us with a foundation so that we can apply our knowledge and succeed during placement. I would recommend students to take every opportunity that they can to learn and grow, such as volunteer work with children in the community. The best way to learn is by practicing, so don't be scared to say yes to a new learning opportunity. Also, do not be scared to ask questions, e-mail your graduate assistant, meet with a professor or even form a study group. Education is a team setting, and we're always here to support each other. You're never alone, so if you ever feel overwhelmed, there's always amazing staff members and peers you can refer to.
Q: What do you do to maintain balance outside of school?
OM: Outside of school, I have a love for travelling. A couple of years ago, I had the opportunity to travel to Italy and visit my family, which was my most memorable family vacation. I also love cooking new recipes, going for nature walks, listening to music and spending quality time with my friends and family. I always strive to have a good work/life and school/life balance and do things that I enjoy.
Q: What is next for you in terms of education?
OM: In terms of next steps, I hope to continue to expand my knowledge through continued education. As educators, we have a variety of opportunities to engage in lifelong learning, such as through additional qualification courses and a Master of Education. I am currently in the process of reviewing these opportunities. I am looking forward to learning more about how I can grow as an educator to strengthen my practice as well as to remain curious and reflective.
Q: Finally, what did it mean to you to win the Board of Governors in-course medal?
OM: It's really meant so much to me to be the recipient of the Board of Governors in-course medal. I think this award is a testament to my passion for education as well as my commitment to lifelong learning. This award has also motivated me to continue to work my hardest, reach my goals and take all opportunities to grow. I am truly thankful, honoured and grateful to be the recipient.
To learn more about teacher education programs, visit the Faculty of Education website.