Gina P.
Gina P.
Ready to take the next step?
M.S.Ed. Early Childhood Education Teacher, Class of 2013
Advanced Certificate in Bilingual Education, Class of 2020
Through research, I found out that Brooklyn College held one of the best programs for Early Childhood Education (“ECE”) in New York State for General and Special Education. Their education program is rigorous, competitive, and has high expectations. The classes and course content is engaging and challenges each student. I not only completed my Master’s in ECE at Brooklyn College, I also returned to complete the Advanced Certificate in Bilingual Extension (Birth-12).
The Subsidized Bilingual Extension Program (SBEP) is an amazing program with professors from various countries, cultures and backgrounds. The program is also in partnership with the New York City Department of Education, which provided me with the perfect opportunity to add a bilingual extension to my teaching license. It is a short, but comprehensive program and is available in the evening for busy educators and others.
As a Special Education Teacher of Kindergarten and First Grade students at a Title I school, I did not feel underprepared or as overwhelmed as I have heard other educators have felt during their first year of teaching. The education program stands out because the professors do not solely teach through or about theories, but they provide tangible practical. Theories are great, however, going into a brand-new field more than theories are needed to succeed. The classroom experience equipped me with what I needed going into a New York City classroom. I was able to start my teaching career with a certain self-awareness and foresight which I developed during my time at Brooklyn College. Although it was challenging, I was prepared. Upon completion of my Advanced Certificate in Bilingual Extension, I will be a full-time Special Education Bilingual Teacher. Also, due to information that I’ve learned during the program I was able to complete and release my very first children’s book titled “I Am Not Being Lazy, I just Don’t Understand.” The book is about some of the challenges that bilingual children face in classrooms where their native languages are not spoken.
There are many things that make the education program unique. One such thing is the experience that each professor brings into the classroom. Most, if not all, of the professors that I have had at Brooklyn College have been in the classroom with students prior to teaching at the Masters’ level. This is crucial, because having been in the field afforded the professors certain experiences, understandings, and effectiveness in teaching the program’s content. Therefore, they understand what we need as Teachers/Educators going into the classroom. The program is inclusive and reflective of teaching practices within the education system.
The Brooklyn College campus is a tight-knit community full of diversity, ideas and resources to go to for help and direction with any multitude of matters. I never encountered a staff member at Brooklyn College whom I felt disrespected or dismissed by. Whenever I needed help, if the individual was unable to assist, they were able to find someone else who was able to. No school is perfect, but I can honestly say that I had a great experience at Brooklyn College because of the great program, staff and community as a whole.
As incoming Graduate students, my advice is, be open minded and never fear asking questions. If you are not comfortable asking in a group setting, know that the professors are always open to having one-on-one meetings. Be open to change and be respectful of others’ point of view. Lastly, share your experiences with others, because you never know who your experiences may help.
