During the 2019-2020 school year I was able to be mentored by my special education professor, Jaylia Prussing, and a Gifted and Talented Teacher for the Bismarck Public Schools, Jennifer Ellertson.
I was able to discuss a lot about the education world with both of my mentors. Since Mrs. Prussing was my professor, we were able to discuss what I was witnessing throughout both my elementary practicum block I and my special education practicum, as well as my mentorship with GATE and my experiences in the Ability and Advocacy Club on campus. She has so much experience in the education world that it was great to just talk to her about what she has seen compared to what I was getting to experience.
During my GATE mentorship with Mrs. Ellertson, I was able to see into the world of challenging students who are above their peers. This is a part of the educational world that I am interested in pursuing so it was great getting to see what went into all of it. I was able to discuss the parts of the job, how the students are chosen, and the fact that their is no set curriculum. I was also able to witness her teach a couple groups of students while also participating in some of their discoveries.
I am sad that my time was cut short with these mentorships. Luckily I will still be able to have contact with them in the future for questions or concerns in which their expertise could be useful.