Education programs provide nurturing experiences critical to classroom success

A successful career in education requires tremendous dedication to the profession and a desire for continuous improvement. For aspiring educators, programs in MSU’s College of Education provide high-quality preparation and strong support in an environment that facilitates and fosters student learning.

Growing up, senior elementary and special education major Maria Kallas from Springboro, Ohio, always knew she wanted to become a teacher. Her experiences at MSU were challenging, rewarding and have ultimately prepared her to take her dream classroom and mold it into reality.

“Everything I do is motivated by those 28 faces I imagine in my future classroom,” Kallas said. “It has always been my desire to develop as much as I could professionally so that I could serve students to the best of my ability.”

Her participation in two different Undergraduate Research Fellowships while at MSU has been invaluable. During one fellowship, Kallas focused on the effects of technology integration and learned best practices for introducing technology into the classroom. Another experience allowed her to continue research for a behavior change project initiated in one of her applied behavior special education classes. Kallas believes the skills she has learned through researching and practicing her applied behavior analysis will continue to guide her classroom management practices throughout her teaching career.

“As a student teacher and first-year teacher, I will be entering the workforce with knowledge of best practices in technology integration and classroom management – two of the hardest components of teaching,” Kallas said. “I have a passion for teaching unruly students now. I want students who will challenge me and push my buttons. I have also learned how to search and apply for grants to bring technology into my classroom.”

Through extensive field experiences, challenging research fellowships and supportive faculty who have constantly encouraged her in and out of the classroom, Kallas couldn’t be more excited to continue her education journey beyond MSU.

“I haven’t graduated yet and I’ve already been interviewed for upcoming teaching positions. I have been recommended for hiring before even beginning my student teaching. That’s crazy to me!” she said. “I am beyond thankful for all of my experiences at Morehead State.”

MSU offers programs in early childhood, elementary, middle grades and secondary education, and special education. For more information, visit www.moreheadstate.edu/education.

International studies major provides incredible study abroad opportunities

MSU's international studies program serves students who want to achieve a deeper understanding of other nations and cultures, languages and how historical and cultural backgrounds shape current events. The program includes tracks of study specializing in the Eurasian region, Latin America, Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

Danielle Weik is a recent graduate from Independence, Kentucky. Weik believes the program delivers the perfect combination of classroom learning with practical applications of international concepts.

"I have had the privilege of experiencing different world views and perspectives. I feel there is no greater real-world experience than to experience the world itself," says Weik. “Learning to think of other’s points of views and understanding how to appreciate cultural differences is crucial and has prepared me to enter the workforce.”

Weik has completed study abroad experiences in Spain and Costa Rica, in addition to an internship in the Canadian Parliament. She plans on returning to Spain this year to serve as a cultural ambassador and teach English with the Auxiliares Extranjeros program.

Other professions relying on a background in international studies include those in:

• Business
• Communication
• Education
• Journalism
• Law
• Public services
• Social work 

To learn more about international studies at MSU, visit www.moreheadstate.edu/study/international/.

Bryson earns UK graduate fellowship

Brian Bryson

A recent Morehead State graduate has earned a prestigious fellowship at the University of Kentucky

to continue his education.

Brian Bryson of Cincinnati, Ohio, who graduates May 14 with a degree in animal science, was awarded the Lyman Johnson Fellowship at UK, which will allow him to pursue a graduate degree in animal sciences. 

“Brian has arguably been one of the best and brightest that we have had since I have been at MSU,” said Dr. Phil Prater, Department of Agricultural Sciences interim chair. “He also has a humble, friendly nature and he has been a great joy to teach and mentor.”

“I am excited to expand my horizons and attend the University of Kentucky’s graduate school. It’s a much different atmosphere than Morehead State, but I am ready to start a new chapter of my life,” Bryson said, adding there’s a lot he will miss about MSU.

“I will miss my professors who have helped me along the way, especially Dr. Prater,” he said. “I will also miss the ‘small town’ environment and the close friendships I’ve made within my four years here. Without God and my family’s support, none of this would be possible, and I would like to give them thanks.”

Bryson said he first learned he had been awarded the Johnson Fellowship from Dr. Sunday Adekokun at UK, who will be Bryson’s fellowship professor. The two will conduct research on swine and poultry nutrition.

Ag students sell fruits of their labors at plant sale

Morehead State’s Department of Agricultural Sciences is continuing its annual flower and vegetable plant sale May 12 and 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the MSU Farm Greenhouse.

A wide selection of Kentucky Proud annual and perennial flowers, as well as herbs and vegetable plants, will be available.

• Annuals: petunias, geraniums, begonias, impatiens, dahlias, zinnias, cosmos, snapdragons, coleus and more
• Perennials: Lavender and purple coneflower
• Vegetable plants: Several varieties of heirloom and hybrid tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, zucchini and okra
• Herbs: several varieties of basil, cilantro, parsley, thyme, oregano, chives and sage

Potted annuals are $1, potted vegetable plants are $1.50 and herb plants are $2. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the University Farm. Accepted forms of payment are cash and check only.

The farm is located on KY 377 (Cranston Road). For more information, contact Amy Lentz at a.lentz@moreheadstate.edu or call 783-8750.