From Student to Teacher
Rebecca Vasquez loved St. Joseph’s from the moment she stepped foot on campus. And though her time as a student was not without its struggles, the child study major with a concentration in art feels ready to pursue her passion and teach, thanks to the community and support she had at SJC Long Island.
“College can be kind of a scary thing, considering after four years you’ll be starting your career,” Vasquez said. “But I always had someone on campus that was willing to take the time out in their day to sit with me and talk through all the challenges college brings. I honestly wouldn’t be graduating this year if it wasn’t for the community at St. Josephs.”
An active member of Campus Ministry since her sophomore year, Vasquez actively participated in service efforts, volunteering at soup kitchens and traveling off of Long Island for Alternative Breaks and other service-related trips. She became a member of Brothers and Sisters in Christ (BASIC) her junior year, and she held the position of club president during her senior year.
“Throughout my entire college career, I have seen the school make it its mission to serve the students attending the College, as well as those outside of the community,” she said. “For me, service has been a large part of my college experience. I love serving others, and I am glad St. Joe’s gave me the opportunity to do so.”
Vasquez, who was recently hired as a full-time substitute teacher in her hometown of West Babylon, is very excited for this next chapter to begin.
“I can’t wait until I can have my own classroom and make it the experience I would want to have if I was a student walking into the classroom for the first time,” the 21-year-old said. “I want to be that teacher that even just one student remembers for the rest of their lives because of the care and support I gave them. I really want my future students to know that no matter what, if they try hard enough, they will always be successful.
“The best part of teaching that I’ve experienced is the small growths,” Vasquez added. “I can’t wait to be a part of all the small growths that are a part of the foundation of my students’ learning for the rest of their lives!”
