The University of 海角社区 and University of 海角社区 at Machias have announced Dean鈥檚 List honors for the spring 2026 semester, which included more than 315 students from the College of Education and Human Development.
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The students who earned Dean鈥檚 List recognition from the college hail from every corner of 海角社区, as well as 18 other states and three countries other than the U.S.
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To be eligible for the full-time Dean鈥檚 List, a student must have completed 12 or more calculable credits in the semester and have earned a 3.50 or higher semester GPA. Students who have part-time status during both the fall and spring semesters of a given academic year are eligible for the part-time Dean鈥檚 List in the spring. They must have completed 12 or more calculable credits over both terms and earned a combined GPA of 3.50 or higher.
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Please note that some students have requested their information not be released; therefore, their names are not included.

Contact: Office of Student Records, umrecord@maine.edu.

Brianna (Bri) Harriman of Augusta, 海角社区 is the 2026 Outstanding Student in Kinesiology and Physical Education (Outdoor Leadership concentration) in the University of 海角社区 College of Education and Human Development. A Black Bear student athlete with the track and field team, Harriman was a two-time U海角社区 Scholar-Athlete, a two-time Presidential Scholar-Athlete and made the America East Conference Commissioner鈥檚 Honor Roll three times. She was a seven-time recipient of both Dean鈥檚 List and U海角社区 Presidential Scholar honors. In addition, Harriman worked as a peer mentor for fellow student athletes and at 海角社区 Bound Adventure Center on campus during her time at U海角社区.

Parent(s):

Bethany and Shawn Cyr.

Why did you choose to come to U海角社区?

I originally chose U海角社区 for its Communication Sciences and Disorders program. However, when I realized speech pathology was not the听right听path for me, the students and faculty in the School of Kinesiology Physical Education and Athletic Training made me feel welcomed, challenged and excited to learn. They gave me confidence that I would be well-prepared for a career I am听deeply听passionate about.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at U海角社区 better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at U海角社区?

Yes! Dr. Lauren Jacobs has been a shining light and a steady source of support throughout my time in the Outdoor Leadership program. She leads with remarkable confidence and efficiency and has challenged me to grow into those qualities myself. Her mentorship has had a lasting impact on both my academic and personal development.

What has coming to U海角社区 enabled you to explore beyond academics?

Beyond academics, U海角社区 has helped me find a wonderful community built on lasting friendships and meaningful connections. I have been able to deepen my love for the outdoors and find a true sense of belonging, especially through working at 海角社区 Bound Adventure Center.

Favorite U海角社区 memory:

It’s hard to choose just one! One that stands out is a big snow day during my freshman year, when I went sledding at night with people I barely knew. We sledded, climbed a small “ice cliff face” and I ended up meeting one of my best friends that night 鈥� without ever seeing his听face. Another favorite memory was presenting a 鈥淔inding Nemo鈥澨齡ift to my client at the end of our final session in Adapted Physical Education, a moment that was both joyful and deeply meaningful.

What鈥檚 on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?

I plan to stay in Orono this听summer, continuing to work at the 海角社区 Bound Adventure Center, and then travel abroad in the fall. Afterward, I hope to apply to graduate or Ph.D. programs in exercise physiology.

Special thank you message:

I would like to extend a special thank you to my parents, Bethany and Shawn, as well as the rest of my family, my friends and my professors 鈥� with a special shoutout to Dr. Lauren Jacobs. Your collective support means everything to me, and I am deeply grateful for all you have done.

Clare Stansberry of Bowdoinham, 海角社区 is the 2026 Outstanding Graduate Student in Curriculum, Assessment and Instruction in the University of 海角社区 College of Education and Human Development. Stansberry is teacher at the 海角社区 Coast Waldorf School, where she has taught since 2021. Prior to that she taught at a Waldorf school in Idaho. A self-described teaching nerd, who loves learning about how people make sense of the world, outside of the classroom Stansberry enjoys hiking, running and playing all sorts of games. She is earning her Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree in CAI with a concentration in High Leverage Practices to Support Inclusion.

Why did you choose U海角社区 for graduate school?

I chose U海角社区 because I knew other educators who had done U海角社区 programs and had positive experiences. I also wanted to do my graduate programs in the state where I live.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at U海角社区 better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at U海角社区?

I have had only positive experiences in my classes. As a full-time remote student, I’m impressed at how the teachers build communities of learners when we can’t be in person!

What advice do you have for incoming graduate students to help them get off to the best start academically?

Graduate school is really about digging into something you are interested in more deeply. I’ve become a better teacher by engaging in deeper learning and thinking about teaching as a practice.

What鈥檚 on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?听

I’m still teaching! This is my 10th year in education and I’m lucky to get to keep doing the work that I love. I’m teaching 7th grade for the first time next year, so I’m curious about what that will bring.

Sylvia Valentin of St. Paul, Minnesota is the 2026 recipient of the Dean鈥檚 Award from the University of 海角社区 College of Education and Human Development. This award recognizes a student who has overcome significant challenges along the path to graduation, who is dedicated to their field and shows perseverance and commitment to their program. The road to success is often not clear, or easy, but students who are recognized with the Dean鈥檚 Award find a way to do what is needed and rise to the challenge. Valentin is graduating with a degree in Elementary Education and a concentration in Child Development. She started working as an educational technician at Asa Adams Elementary School in Orono while completing her student teaching, and recently accepted a position as a kindergarten teacher at Vine Street School in Bangor.

Why did you choose to come to U海角社区?

I chose to come to U海角社区 because it reminded me of home state, Minnesota, and I was seeking a grounded environment. After looking into the education program at U海角社区, I was impressed by the resources available to students, such as ample field experience opportunities. It was very important to me to receive an education that I was confident would set me up for success in my career. I decided to reach out to the Advising Center in the College of Education and Human Development and had such a positive experience meeting who would be my future advisors over Zoom.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor, or role model who made your time at U海角社区 better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at U海角社区?

My most impactful mentor would have to be Faith Erhardt, who is the Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Student Success. She has provided me with meaningful guidance and support that helped me navigate my academic and life journey as a young adult. The College of Education and Human Development is really lucky to have someone who is truly invested in the success and well-being of students. Faith was the person I went to when I needed help picking up pieces and making a plan. I strive to spread the same kindness and humanity she showed me as I enter the field as a professional. Erin Straine, Executive Director of Educator Preparation, also had a significant impact on my journey. She paved the way for me to simultaneously work as an Ed Tech 3 in special education at a local elementary school and fulfill my student teaching requirements. I am grateful that Erin was committed to making this huge opportunity accessible to me, as it supported several areas of my life. 

What has coming to U海角社区 enabled you to explore beyond academics?

I didn鈥檛 realize it until I got closer to graduating, but U海角社区 provided me with so many connections and roots that have led to my decision to reside here. My first field placement was through the Town of Orono鈥檚 after-school program and summer camp called RAD. From starting as an observer/volunteer to working as a lead counselor, over the past 4 years, I have become familiar with town members and have been active within the community. It is such a gift to find belonging and proudly be a part of something bigger than myself. U海角社区 provided me with a community beyond the campus.

Favorite U海角社区 memory:

My favorite memories at U海角社区 include quiet floor library sessions with Kahlysta, looking for turtles in the campus garden, and walks/catching frogs at night with Hadley. I also had a blast with my roommates when U海角社区 brought Trippie Redd for a homecoming concert.

What’s on the horizon? What are your plans after you graduate?

I am so thrilled to share that after graduation, I will be working as a kindergarten teacher in the Bangor School Department. Julie Ireland, Field Experience Coordinator and my student teaching seminar instructor, was very helpful in guiding me through the application and interview process this past March. Being able to secure a job before graduation would not have been as attainable without the support and experiences I had access to throughout my learning.
 
After the school year ends, I will be moving the rest of my belongings from Minnesota to 海角社区 and prepping for my first year of teaching! My best friend Justine, who is a third-year teacher, will also be moving with me, and I am excited to have her support during my first year. I can鈥檛 wait to apply what I鈥檝e learned to create a safe and positive learning environment for my future kindergarteners. I feel so fortunate to look forward to a job where I get to help other humans and make learning accessible to all.

Special thank you message:

I鈥檇 like to give a sentimental thank you to my Asa Adams School community. I can鈥檛 imagine myself going into teaching without all of the invaluable skills, knowledge, and experiences you taught and shared with me. Thank you for seeing my potential, challenging me, being patient with me, and making me feel seen. Not to be dramatic, but you’ve impacted my life greatly.
 
Additional shoutouts to Bettina Burgess, Cassandra Henri (mentor), Kathy Blais, John Curry, Kim Oldenburgh, Maggie Auxier, Karen Grindle, Kelley Dill, Suzanne Neville, Annie Boitz, Sofia Rivera, Emily Ernst, Angie McLaughlin, Jodi Puleo, Victoria Howe, Kahlysta Morris, and Justine Cobbett. I value and admire each of you dearly.

Carly Philbrook of Winterport, 海角社区 is the recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Undergraduate Research Award from the University of 海角社区 College of Education and Human Development. A Secondary Education major with an area of specialization in Mathematics, Philbrook received a summer fellowship from U海角社区鈥檚 Center for Undergraduate Research (CUGR) for her project, 鈥淐omparison of High School Mathematics Textbooks Analyzing Higher Order Thinking Skills in New England,鈥� advised by Assistant Professor of Education and Applied Quantitative Methods Kamal Chawla. The study was presented at the Society for Research in Educational Effectiveness annual meeting in Chicago in October 2025. Philbrook was also an Honors College student. Her Honors Thesis was 鈥淎 Novel Approach to Reducing Mathematics Anxiety in Middle School Students.鈥� She also graduates with minors in both Spanish and Mathematics.

Parent(s):

Nicolle and Alden Philbrook.

Why did you choose to come to U海角社区?

I chose U海角社区 because听I wanted to stay close to home and I wanted an affordable college experience. I definitely don’t regret my choice because U海角社区 offered me a wide variety of experiences from classroom placements to a Spanish minor to studying abroad in Newfoundland, Canada.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at U海角社区 better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at U海角社区?

One of the people who made my time on campus extra special was Karel DePaola. She made working at the听bookstore a great experience and she always听brought a smile to my face.

What has coming to U海角社区 enabled you to explore beyond academics?

Beyond just studying education, attending U海角社区 allowed me to pursue my interest in Spanish. I have completed a minor in Spanish that greatly improved my spoken abilities and it has given me the opportunity to volunteer as an English tutor for a Spanish-speaking family.

Favorite U海角社区 Memory:

My favorite U海角社区 memory was being published in the Modern Languages and Classics Department’s听magazine for articles I wrote in Spanish.

What鈥檚 on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?

I plan to become a math teacher in 海角社区, though I also hope to听teach abroad for a few years.

Special thank you message:

I want to thank my parents and sisters for always supporting me. I would also like to thank Franziska Peterson, Justin Dimmel, and Heather Falconer for being a very supportive Honors Thesis Committee.

Jeremy Miller of Old Town, 海角社区 is the 2026 Outstanding Student in Kinesiology and Physical Education (Health and Physical Education concentration) in the University of 海角社区 College of Education and Human Development. Miller was awarded Outstanding Future Professional in Health and Physical Education by the 海角社区 Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (MAHPERD) in November 2025.

Parent(s):

Ron and Laurie Miller.

Why did you choose to come to U海角社区?

It has always been a dream of mine to attend a Division I school, so once I found where I believed my passions were meant to lead me, I chose U海角社区 to help me develop the skills needed to be successful.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at U海角社区 better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at U海角社区?

When I think about mentors and truly outstanding individuals who strive to better their students, I immediately think of the kinesiology program as a whole. I have had such a wonderful experience in this program. That being said, there is one individual I especially think of when I think of a mentor, and that is Jennifer McNulty. She has impacted not only the way I view teaching, but also how I treat others. I have never seen someone with so much genuine care for others. It was truly amazing to learn from her 鈥� both how to teach and how to build high self-efficacy in others. Not only that, but she has been a huge source of encouragement to me in so many ways, whether it鈥檚 checking in to see how I鈥檓 doing, seeking me out to offer advice, or providing resources so that I can be successful. She is exactly what this field needs more of. So if you are seeing this, thank you.

What has coming to U海角社区 enabled you to explore beyond academics?

This sense of caring for others and听 what it looks like. 1 Corinthians 13:1-2 鈥淚f I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.鈥� We have a saying in the teaching world and it flows very well in this verse and it is听 鈥淎 student won’t care how much you know until they know how much you care鈥�.听 Look, we can have all this knowledge and all the cool gadgets and tools but if the people around us don’t know how much we care and love them why would they listen. So I will be going into whatever setting with kindness and love being the diving factors.

Favorite U海角社区 memory:

One very impactful memory from U海角社区 was when I was nominated for the MAHPERD Outstanding Future Professional award at the MAHPERD conference. It was such an amazing opportunity 鈥� I was able to bring my whole family and share a truly special experience together. It meant a lot to me and served as a huge encouragement. It was especially meaningful to have my wife and son there to celebrate with me and share in that moment.

What鈥檚 on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?

I鈥檓 so excited because I feel that I have been well trained and am ready for whatever comes next. That being said, I am going to seek what the Lord has for my life, and I want to serve where He calls me to be and to do what He asks of me.

Special thank you message:

I have had an enormous amount of support throughout my years at U海角社区, so I would like to thank my wife, Alejandra Miller; my son, Aaron Miller; my parents, Ron and Laurie Miller; and my brother, Ben Miller. Last but not least, I would like to thank the three teachers who have been a tremendous source of encouragement and guidance throughout this process: Jennifer McNulty, Shannan Fotter, and Jesse Kaye-Schiess. Sincerely, thank you all.

Laura Hatfield of Montville, 海角社区 is the 2026 Outstanding Graduate Student in Special Education in the University of 海角社区 College of Education and Human Development. Originally from New Hampshire, Hatfield moved to Montville in 1995 where she and her husband raised two daughters. In 2023, Regional School Unit (RSU) 3 鈥� the rural school district that includes Montville 鈥� was unable to fill a special education teacher position that required work in multiple schools. Hatfield had worked in one of the schools for 15 years as an educational technician and decided to take the leap. She enrolled in U海角社区鈥檚 Master of Education (M.Ed.) program in special education (high-incidence disabilities concentration) and as a result of the coursework she has completed will be eligible for special educator teacher certification when she graduates this year.

Why did you choose U海角社区 for graduate school?

I chose U海角社区 for graduate school because of the warm and encouraging responses I received from the special education faculty, and because I could complete my coursework online. This made it feel doable as someone who lives in a rural area and who teaches full time.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at U海角社区 better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at U海角社区?

I have had the opportunity to learn from many excellent professors during my time in graduate school. Specifically, I want to thank Dr. Joo Young Lee for the noticeable care she weaves into her teaching and detailed feedback, and for encouraging me to continue my educational journey. Thanks to Dr. Melissa Cuba and Dr. Debrajean Scheibel who greatly expanded my knowledge in critical issues pertaining to special education. Finally, Dr. Sara Flanagan鈥檚 positivity and extensive knowledge have inspired me to be the best educator (and graduate student) that I can be! I鈥檓 truly grateful for the ability to help my students make meaningful progress and gain confidence.

What advice do you have for incoming graduate students to help them get off to the best start academically?

Although it can be scary to take on school while you are working, it鈥檚 important to remember that your professors truly want you to succeed. Reaching out if you have questions or need help is encouraged.听A strategy that helped me stay organized was to keep sticky-note checklists on my laptop to see upcoming assignments and due dates at a glance.

What鈥檚 on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?

I plan to continue teaching in the schools where I currently teach. I am so often inspired by the resilience and growth of the students I work with. Their hard work and determination motivates me to be the best educator that I can be. I am also fortunate to have many role models whom I have the pleasure of working with in our district. My sincere thanks to Lisa Roux, Brett Leavitt, Jodie Dupuy, and Cindy Fonger for believing in me.

Special thank you message:

A special thank you goes to my husband, Ben, for his unwavering encouragement, and for being willing to take care of whatever he could so I could give my best effort to my studies. I鈥檓 also so grateful for our daughters who lead by example and who aren鈥檛 afraid to get out of their comfort zone to grow and learn.

Helen Shearer of Hampden, 海角社区 is the 2026 Outstanding Student in Kinesiology and Physical Education (Exercise Science concentration) in the University of 海角社区 College of Education and Human Development. A student athlete on the Black Bears track and field team, Shearer double majored in KPE and French, while also pursuing a minor in pre-medical studies. She was named to the 2025 America East Outdoor Track & Field All-Academic Team and was awarded the conference鈥檚 top Women’s Cross Country Scholar Athlete for fall 2025. She set the U海角社区 record in the 3,000-meter steeplechase while finishing in the top 20 at the NCAA Division I Outdoor Track & Field East Regional in May 2025.

Parent(s):

Warren and Rianneke Shearer.

Why did you choose to come to U海角社区?

I transferred to U海角社区 as a second-year student to be closer to home for medical reasons. While transferring was not originally my choice, I soon found myself at home at U海角社区. With the support of my academic advisors and professors Jesse Kaye-Schiess, Katherine Slott, and Frederic Rondeau I was able to pursue my two different academic passions: Kinesiology and French. From studying abroad in France to completing a shadowing internship at Eastern 海角社区 Medical Center last summer, U海角社区 has given the opportunity to grow in various intellectual areas. Another reason I chose to transfer to U海角社区 was the cross-country and track and field team. After taking a year off running competitively, I was able to come back and train and compete at the Division I level with the support of my coach, teammates, and athletic training staff.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at U海角社区 better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at U海角社区?

There have been numerous people who have mentored me over the past couple of years. Jesse Kaye-Schiess helped me transfer smoothly to U海角社区 and has continuously supported me in my academic pursuits throughout my three years at U海角社区. During my first year at U海角社区, Mary Heathcote, a representative for the Navigators, mentored and encouraged me, helping ground me in my faith during a challenging time. Jen McNulty听also helped me find a placement for my internship that fit my interests and she continued to check up on me throughout the summer.

What has coming to U海角社区 enabled you to explore beyond academics?

Coming back to 海角社区 has been like coming back to my roots. I enjoyed exploring more of the surrounding area from different hikes to small stores and restaurants or just revisiting some of my favorite spots in the area. Also, with the support from the Office of International Programs I was able to spend an amazing semester in Pau, France, developing in my French language skills, making new friends, traveling and learning about another culture. C鈥櫭﹖ait une exp茅rience inoubliable!听

Favorite U海角社区 memory:

My favorite U海角社区 memory is when my cross-country team won our conference championship last fall for the first time in program history. I鈥檓 so proud of our team and what we accomplished together.

What鈥檚 on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?

I am currently applying and interviewing for collegiate coaching positions. I hope to coach at the Division I level. I am considering pursuing a master鈥檚 or another higher education degree during my time coaching.

Special thank you message:

I would like to thank all my professors in both the Kinesiology and French departments for their guidance in my academic pursuits and my coaches, teammates, and athletic training staff for giving me an exceptional DI experience. Also, I would like to thank my Discover Church family for supporting and encouraging me in many ways. Finally, I would like to give a special thank you to my parents and the rest of my family for loving and challenging me. You are such a blessing in my life!

Abdur Rehman (Amman) Tariq of Sargodha, Pakistan is the 2026 Outstanding Graduate Student in Literacy, Language and Culture in the University of 海角社区 College of Education and Human Development. Tariq is graduating with a Ph.D. in Education (Literacy Education concentration). His dissertation is titled “Developing a TESOL Teacher Training Program for the Outer and External Circles: A Curriculum Design and Development Project.” Tariq has also authored or co-authored multiple journal articles and other scholarly publications during his time at U海角社区.

Why did you choose U海角社区 for graduate school?

I served as a Fulbright Foreign Language Instructor in the Department of Modern Languages and Classics during the 2019鈥�2020 academic year. During that time, I also took several courses as a non-degree student in the College of Education and Human Development. It was a deeply enriching experience, both in and outside the classroom, as I had the opportunity to teach, learn and engage meaningfully with students and colleagues at U海角社区. That period played an important role in shaping my academic and professional journey and inspired me to pursue my Ph.D. at this beautiful university.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at U海角社区 better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at U海角社区?

During my time at U海角社区 as a graduate student, many faculty members helped me develop both academically and professionally. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. William Dee Nichols, Dr. Susan Bennett-Armstead and my advisor Dr. Timothy Reagan for their continuous support and guidance throughout my time at U海角社区.

What has U海角社区 enabled you to explore beyond academics?

I was given the opportunity to teach and get involved in different research projects to prepare myself professionally. As an educator and researcher, I appreciate the opportunity to work with Dr. Catharine Biddle, who introduced me to rural education in 海角社区. I also got to meet many people, including school administrators, principals and teachers across 海角社区.

What advice do you have for incoming graduate students to help them get off to the best start academically?

Set small goals, be consistent with them and keep recalibrating. Trust the process and you will love the outcome.

What鈥檚 on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?听

I plan to stay in 海角社区. I will begin working for the University of 海角社区 at Augusta in fall 2026 as a postdoc scholar.

Special thank you message:

My heartfelt thanks to my parents, my wife and children for their unconditional love, patience, and for believing in me even when things felt overwhelming.

Sean McGibbon of Millinocket, 海角社区 is the 2026 Outstanding Student in Secondary Education in the University of 海角社区 College of Education and Human Development. McGibbon is in the English area of specialization in the Secondary Education major. After graduation, he plans to teach in the Katahdin area near where he grew up.

Parent(s):

Nadine and Rick McGibbon.

Why did you choose to come to U海角社区?

U海角社区 was always at the top of my list; it was my dream college. I was drawn to the opportunities the university offers, especially within the College of Education and Human Development, and knew it would be a place where I could grow both academically and personally.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at U海角社区 better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at U海角社区?

I have been fortunate to work with several mentors during my time at U海角社区. I especially want to recognize my advisors, Faith Erhardt and Dominick Varney 鈥� without their guidance, I don鈥檛 think I would be where I am today. Dr. Tammy Mills has also been an incredible mentor over the past two years, offering thoughtful advice on educational practice and helping me grow into the educator I aspire to be.

What has coming to U海角社区 enabled you to explore beyond academics?

Coming to U海角社区 has pushed me to grow in ways that go beyond academics. Being on my own has helped me become more independent and intentional with how I manage my time and responsibilities.听All of my experiences have helped me build confidence and better understand what I value, both personally and professionally.

Favorite U海角社区 memory:

The time I鈥檝e spent in Shibles Hall 鈥� those moments stand out as some of the most meaningful parts of my experience at U海角社区. Also, I will never forget all of the hours I spent commuting from Millinocket to Orono over three and a half years.

What鈥檚 on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?听

After graduation, I plan to teach close to home in the Katahdin region. I鈥檝e always felt a strong connection to that area and hope to give back to the community that shaped me. In the coming years, I also plan to pursue a Master鈥檚 degree in education to continue growing in my profession. Furthering my knowledge as a classically trained organist and pianist will also be included in my future endeavors.

Special thank you message:

Thank you to Dominick Varney, Faith Erhardt, Dr. Tammy Mills, and the entire College of Education and Human Development faculty for their support and guidance throughout my journey. I鈥檓 grateful for the role each of you has played as I prepare to enter a field I care deeply about: education.