Dakota Bucci

Ever since I was a child and my little brother was diagnosed with Autism, I wanted to become a teacher. Seeing the positive impact his teachers made on him and my family made me want to do that for other children and families.

When I heard that Towson University offered an Elementary Education and Special Education program at USG, I knew it was where I wanted to be. My decision was reinforced by the fact that my sister had a great experience completing her Criminal Justice degree at the University of Maryland, College Park at USG.

My program not only equips students in the pedagogy necessary to become a teacher, it also prepares teachers how to teach students with special needs. I truly feel like my professors are invested and interested in my success, and I have developed and grown so much as a teacher already.

A few other reasons I chose to complete my program at USG:

• Several Internships at various schools where I have gained valuable work-ready skills
• Opportunities to work with nationally recognized organizations such as the Council of Exceptional Children
• Being part of a small cohort that was built with a mentor/mentee mindset

The Universities at Shady Grove provides such a unique college experience. I feel that this program has placed me on the path to success, helping me become a teacher who will make a positive impact on my future students.