Why I Chose CEHD: My Journey to Becoming an Educator

Hello there! My name is Sharaè Hayes, and I am an early childhood education major with a concentration in special education at Temple University’s College of Education and Human Development. I am entering my junior year and look forward to graduating in 2028.

For me, CEHD has become more than a place where I attend classes. It is a community where I continue to thrive and feel inspired each day. Choosing CEHD was about finding a place that supports my academic journey while encouraging me to become the future educator and leader I aspire to be.

Course Variety

One of the things I value most about being a CEHD student is the variety of courses that connect directly to my future career in education.

Each class has helped me better understand how students learn, grow and develop. Courses focused on topics such as teaching strategies, child development and supporting diverse learning needs have strengthened my understanding of the field and prepared me for my future as an educator.

A highlight of my experience was entering the classroom during my sophomore year to observe educators and see teaching in action. That hands-on experience helped bring my coursework to life and gave me a clearer picture of my future career.

I also appreciate how CEHD’s curriculum combines foundational courses with major-specific coursework, allowing students to build essential skills while gaining the knowledge and experience needed for their future careers in education and related fields.

Professors

The support and dedication of CEHD professors have also shaped my experience at Temple. Throughout my time here, I have had professors who are genuinely invested in students’ academic and professional success.

They bring real-world experiences into the classroom, provide thoughtful feedback and offer guidance that extends beyond coursework. Knowing that my professors care about my growth as both a student and future educator has made my CEHD experience even more rewarding.

I enjoy learning from new professors and developing new skills throughout each step of my journey.

Advisors

The support I have received from CEHD’s academic advisors has made my transition into college much smoother. From my first advising session, I felt welcomed and supported.

My advisors helped me understand what it means to be a CEHD student by explaining the coursework, outlining what my academic journey could look like and providing detailed guidance on course registration. Having that level of support as I entered college helped me feel more confident about my academic path.

I also appreciate how accessible the advisors are whenever I have questions or need guidance. Having someone like Alison Warren to turn to for support with classes, coursework and planning my academic journey has made me feel even more connected to the CEHD community.

Location

Temple University’s location is another reason CEHD feels like the right fit for me. Being born and raised in Philadelphia, attending Temple allows me to remain connected to the city and community that have shaped me.

Temple’s North Philadelphia location provides easy access to Center City and other parts of the city through public transportation. I enjoy being able to explore Philadelphia while still having a familiar place to call home.

The area around campus also adds to the experience. From food trucks and dining halls to local restaurants, there are always new places to explore with friends between classes or after a busy day on campus. The connection between Temple and the city’s culture makes the university experience feel vibrant and unique.

Legacy

My decision to attend Temple University is also connected to my family’s history with the institution. During my transition from high school to college, my mom was completing a program at Temple through the school district to earn her principal certification in Pennsylvania.

Watching her balance coursework, complete assignments and grow as an educational leader inspired me. Seeing her dedication to advancing her career made me more interested in Temple and showed me the impact the university can have on students and professionals.

Knowing that Temple played a role in helping my mom achieve one of her professional goals made my own journey at CEHD feel even more meaningful.

Opportunities

One of the greatest benefits of being a CEHD student is the wide range of opportunities available to help students grow academically and professionally.

CEHD allows students to explore many different paths within education, not just traditional classroom teaching. The college offers a variety of majors, minors, concentrations, and certificate programs that allow students to customize their educational experience based on their interests and goals.

One opportunity that stands out to me is the accelerated plus 1-degree programs, which allow students to work toward both a bachelor’s and master’s degree by completing graduate-level coursework during their junior and senior years. For students who want to continue their education and expand their career opportunities, this is an incredible option.

Beyond academics, CEHD provides opportunities for students to get involved through student organizations and student worker roles such as peer advising, research assistants and content creation. As someone who enjoys helping others and being creative, I appreciate opportunities that allow me to contribute to the college community.

I also value Temple’s study abroad opportunities, which allow students to experience different cultures and gain new perspectives on education around the world. CEHD reminds me there are endless opportunities to learn, grow and prepare for my future career.

Belonging

Above all, what makes CEHD special to me is the sense of belonging I feel every time I walk into Ritter Hall and Annex. It feels like home and reminds me that I am exactly where I am meant to be.

The relationships I have built with my classmates have become one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience. Because we are all pursuing careers in education, it is easy to connect, support one another and understand each other’s goals.

Whether we are attending classes, studying together or grabbing lunch between lectures, CEHD has created a community that feels like one big family. Being surrounded by students who share similar passions and ambitions motivates and inspires me every day.

My experience in CEHD has given me more than an education. It has given me confidence, community, support and a place where I feel seen as I continue working toward my future as an educator.