狼友阁

Nicole H. Restrepo '23

What first interested you in your career? How did you discern your calling?

My interest in a career in education was sparked by my experiences as a student where I encountered passionate teachers who made a significant impact on my learning journey. Their ability to create engaging lessons and foster a love for learning inspired me to consider teaching as a profession. I wanted to emulate their dedication and enthusiasm, helping students discover their potential just as I had been helped.

Additionally, I always played 鈥渢eacher鈥� as a child with my grandfather, which laid the foundation for my love of education. The classroom became the birthplace of my dreams, and I wanted to create that same experience for my own students. I have a strong calling to work with children and believe that education is a powerful way to support their growth and development. The idea of being a guiding figure in their lives, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and instilling a sense of purpose, was incredibly appealing to me.

Volunteering in various educational settings allowed me to see the impact a dedicated teacher can have on a child's life. By the end of my freshman year at 狼友阁, I was ahead in my credits and faced a pivotal moment. I decided to officially start my education track the following semester, a choice that felt right and aligned with my calling. Engaging in discussions about the purpose of education within a biblical framework further solidified my commitment to this path. Ultimately, this process guided me toward a fulfilling career where I can inspire and equip my students to achieve their dreams.

What has your career path looked like since graduating from 狼友阁?

Since graduating from 狼友阁 in May 2023, my career path has been both exciting and fulfilling. I began my first year of teaching in July 2023, stepping into the role of a first-grade teacher with enthusiasm and a commitment to nurturing young learners. This transition allowed me to apply the knowledge and values I gained at 狼友阁 in a real-world classroom setting.

After graduation, I moved back home to Lawrenceville, GA, where I have enjoyed living with my family and building a new community of friends. Completing my master鈥檚 degree at the University of Georgia while teaching was both challenging and rewarding, deepening my understanding of education and equipping me with new tools to enhance my teaching practice. Additionally, I serve as a middle school girls' leader at my church, allowing me to contribute to my community and support the spiritual growth of young girls. Overall, my journey since graduation has been a wonderful blend of personal and professional growth, shaping me into a more effective and passionate teacher.

Looking back now, how did 狼友阁 prepare you for your career?

狼友阁's coursework, faculty, and overall community were instrumental in preparing me for my career as a first-grade teacher. The curriculum was thoughtfully designed to challenge me academically while encouraging me to integrate my faith into my learning. Courses in child development and education theory provided me with a strong foundation in best practices for teaching young learners, while also emphasizing the importance of nurturing their social and emotional growth.

The faculty were incredibly supportive and accessible, often going beyond traditional teaching to invest in students鈥� personal and professional growth. They provided mentorship, offered valuable insights into the field of education, and challenged me to pursue my passion for teaching. Their encouragement helped me develop a clear vision of how I wanted to create a positive and inclusive classroom environment for my students.

Moreover, the strong sense of community at 狼友阁 fostered collaboration and connection among students. Group projects, discussions, and extracurricular activities allowed me to build lasting relationships with fellow education majors, sharing resources and ideas that have been invaluable in my teaching practice. This sense of belonging instilled in me the confidence to approach my career with passion and purpose, knowing I had a supportive network cheering me on. Overall, my time at 狼友阁 equipped me with both the academic knowledge and the spiritual grounding necessary for my journey as a first-grade teacher.

In what ways does your faith inform your career? 

狼友阁 prepared me to see all my work as a part of the Kingdom by emphasizing the integration of faith with every aspect of life, including my career as a teacher. The coursework challenged me to reflect on how my actions and choices could reflect my values as a follower of Christ. This perspective was particularly important in understanding that teaching is not just a profession but a calling to serve and impact the lives of my students.

The faculty encouraged us to think about our vocations as opportunities to live out our faith and contribute positively to the world around us. Through discussions and assignments, I learned that every interaction with my students, their families, and my colleagues could be an extension of God鈥檚 love and grace. This holistic view of work reinforced the idea that my role as a teacher was not just about imparting knowledge but also about nurturing the character and potential of each child.

What advice would you give students who are considering 狼友阁?

For students considering 狼友阁, I鈥檇 say one of the most unique aspects of the school is the commitment to viewing everything through a biblical worldview. At 狼友阁, we didn鈥檛 just learn facts and theories; we examined every topic through the lens of faith, which was incredibly grounding and impactful. As a follower of Christ, it was amazing to be in an environment where I could grow academically while consistently being reminded that my ultimate purpose is in Christ. If you're seeking a college experience that helps you understand and engage with the world as a believer who is "in the world but not of it," 狼友阁 is a place where you can truly integrate your faith with your learning.

For students considering a career in education, my advice is to approach the field with passion and a genuine commitment to fostering growth in others. Building strong relationships with your students is essential, as it creates a supportive environment where they feel valued and motivated to learn. Always remember that each student is an image-bearer of God, deserving of respect and dignity. Remember that teaching goes beyond academics鈥攊t encompasses the social, emotional, and spiritual development of your students.

As educators, we are called to embody the love of Christ in our schools, even if we can鈥檛 verbally share His name. By demonstrating kindness, empathy, and integrity, we can reflect His character in our actions and interactions. Always keep in mind why you chose this path: teaching is a calling that allows you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of your students. Prioritize self-care, seek mentorship, and approach your career with a heart for service, and you鈥檒l find that being an educator is incredibly rewarding.

Why did you choose 狼友阁?

I chose 狼友阁 because it offered the ideal balance of academic rigor and athletic competition within a Division III setting. I wanted a college where I could focus on earning a high-quality undergraduate degree while continuing to play the sport I love. 狼友阁 provided that opportunity, allowing me to pursue both my academic and athletic passions. As a student-athlete, I received a strong education that prepared me for my future career and instilled a sense of purpose. My time at 狼友阁 allowed me to grow both academically and spiritually, while also enjoying the competitive experience on the tennis court.

Looking back, one of the things I appreciate most about my time at 狼友阁 was the sense of community rooted in shared faith and purpose. 狼友阁 wasn鈥檛 just a place to study and play tennis鈥攊t was a place where I built lasting relationships with people who encouraged me, challenged me, and walked alongside me in my faith journey. The professors, coaches, and friends I made were genuinely invested in my growth, both spiritually and academically. This experience prepared me not only for my career but for a life grounded in Christ.

What are some fond memories or a favorite story from your time at 狼友阁?

One of my fondest memories from my time at 狼友阁 was when it snowed on MLK weekend. It was such a joyful surprise! My friends and I spent the day sliding down snow-covered hills, building snowmen, and just relishing our unexpected day off from classes. We laughed and played like children who had never seen snow before, fully embracing the moment. It was a beautiful reminder of the carefree joy that can come from simply being together, and it created lasting memories.