It’s Western Wednesday!!
Meet Western’s new Child Development instructor, Erin Sturgeon.
The Child Development program at Western is a completely online program in order to best meet the needs of our students. Most of their students already work in child development centers and attend college simultaneously. They are looking to gain knowledge that will help them best serve the children with whom they work while also furthering their careers. In just 18 college hours, students can earn a Child Development Assistant Certificate. From there, they can decide to take their education further with one of three associate degree options: Child Development, Infants and Toddlers, or Early Childhood.
Erin grew up in Fort Worth/Arlington, TX but she has been in Rocky, OK, for eighteen years. She did her undergraduate work at Oklahoma State University and received her master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has been at Western for one wonderful month!
Why did you choose to work at Western?
Several factors were at play in my decision to work at Western. One was certainly the idea of being on a college campus. Colleges are so alive with people taking action to improve themselves in some way, that I am always energized when I am one in one. I love that I now get to be a part of this important step that students are taking for their futures.
What is your favorite aspect of Western?
I don’t know that I can say a favorite part yet, but one aspect that I am impressed with is a desire to be on the forefront of change. An example I have seen is being among leaders of colleges transitioning to a 100% online bookstore.
What advice would you give students to help them succeed?
When I worked with high school students, I always told them to make sure their professors know who they are from as early in the semester as possible. Their instructors will be impressed with their initiative and know who they are if/when they need help or have a problem. I also want students to know that they don’t need to try to navigate college alone, and their instructors aren’t their only resources. Colleges are staffed with people whose jobs are to help them succeed, and there are plenty of places for them to get help. Be it tutoring, counseling, or general guidance, they should take advantage of all the college has to offer.
Is there a specific person at Western who has made a difference in your life?
It’s only been a month, so I wouldn’t quite say that anyone has changed my life yet, but I have been impressed with the faculty and staff as a whole. Not only has everyone been friendly, but many people have gone out of their way to be extra helpful.
What most are you looking forward to in your position?
My students are making careers of working with young children. The work they do will impact the lives of their students for years to come. I consider this opportunity to guide future educators an honor and a responsibility that I take very seriously.
We are excited to have Erin on campus!
Original source can be found here
