Danielle Cramer is a 2021 graduate from Keizer, Oregon. She’s graduating with an Elementary Master of Arts in Teaching, along with a minor in ESOL Endorsement.

 

What has been your most memorable class? 

My most memorable class during my eMAT program was 615: Critical Inquiry into the Foundational Narratives of Schooling with Dr. Dana Ulveland. This course analyzed and examined the foundational narratives of the educational system and schooling experience. The work produced and the learning obtained as a result of this course was second to none. This is a course I firmly believe all educators should be required to take prior to entering the field. 

 

Do you have any advice for current and prospective students? 

Plan ahead, work hard, have fun, and take in every moment, as your time at WOU will pass by in the blink of an eye.

 

What is the biggest lesson you have learned throughout your time at WOU? 

It is imperative to always question and inquire about everything thrown at you. Sometimes we tend to become complacent and too agreeable with what we are told and taught. College is a place to practice thinking outside the box and to question the content you are learning. 

 

What has been the highlight of your time at WOU? 

Working as an educational assistant while acquiring my degree enabled me to directly relate the content taught in my courses to the profession I was working to attain. I would highly recommend WOU students find jobs or volunteer work at locations related to their field of study. This allowed me to get the most out of my time at WOU.

 

Who stands out from your time at WOU and why?

Courtney Baeyen and Isaiah Swan were important in my success, growth, and development as a graduate student. Our group chat helped to alleviate concerns, clarify requirements, and reflect on challenges faced to ensure my mental health was maintained during our two years in the program. The lessons I learned from my peers were just as valuable as the material in our courses.

 

What do you love most about the major/minors you completed?

In the program I have completed, I have enjoyed growing my capacities and abilities in the field of education. The courses in the program were always high quality and challenging, enabling ample development of my knowledge and performances related to my professional goals. 

 

What are your plans for after graduation? 

I am excited to say that I will be teaching fourth grade at Whitworth Elementary School in Dallas, Oregon.