GGSE: What made you want to be a teacher?
Aldrich: I want to be a teacher because I want to ensure that students are being holistically supported. I believe that teaching is one of the most direct ways to make an impact. I'm pursuing an MST credential because working with children always reminds me of how exciting day to day life can be! Before starting this program, I was a dance teacher. I loved teaching dance, but I found myself wanting more time to work with students. Working in an elementary school will allow me to work more in depth with students and make more of a difference.
GGSE: What made you choose TEP at UCSB to do your graduate school work?
Aldrich: I chose TEP at UCSB because I wanted the opportunity to study at an amazing institution while being close to my family. I grew up in Santa Barbara County and I was so happy for the opportunity to come back to the area!
GGSE: Who was your favorite teacher in your life, and why?
Aldrich: My favorite teacher was my sophomore English teacher Mrs. Byrne. She wholeheartedly believed in all of her students. As a first generation college student, I didn't know how to begin the college application process and Mrs. Byrne helped me tremendously. She believed in me before I knew what I was capable of. She technically taught English, but I learned so much more than literature in her class. She recognized the struggles and stresses that her students faced outside the classroom and that influenced the way that she taught. When I think of Mrs. Bryne, I remember the importance of knowing your students as people before knowing them as students.
GGSE: If you have any free time (we realize how consuming TEP is), how do you like to spend it?
Aldrich: When I have free time I love to read, hike, cook, dance, and spend time with my friends and family. I also recently started playing tennis! I am not very good yet, but it's a lot of fun!