Courtney Cearns ‘21, Early Childhood Education and Intervention Specialist Education
Courtney Cearns ‘21 always knew that she was meant to be a teacher. Some of her earliest memories include playing “school” with her younger brother. Now, Cearns is working towards making those dreams a reality with the education she is receiving from Malone. 
During the second semester of her freshman year, Cearns participated in her first field experience.
“I appreciate that the education program at Malone allows us to get into the classroom right away,” she said. “My field experiences have allowed me to see how many options are available in the education field.”
In fall 2018, Cearns took part in another field experience at Perry Christian Preschool. That experience turned into a job, as Cearns was hired part-time the following semester.
“My work with Perry has allowed me to gain additional experience with different age groups through assisting with activities and utilizing behavior management skills,” she said.
By participating in a service-learning trip to Romania last May, Cearns was able to put her teaching skills to use in a new culture.
“During my three-week trip, we worked with school-age kids at a non-profit organization called Veritas,” she said. “It was challenging to communicate, but even though the children didn’t understand my language, they recognized that I was trying to connect with them. This trip gave me new insight on how to utilize non-verbal skills to communicate more effectively in the classroom.”
Cearns’ involvement with Helping Hands, a student organization promoting community outreach and youth literacy, has given her additional opportunities to serve.
“Helping Hands has allowed me to assist as a spiritual formation leader and bond with students outside my major to work towards the common goal of helping the community,” she said. “There are many opportunities at Malone to build relationships.”
Through fostering those gifts, Cearns is on track to achieve her goal of becoming a head classroom teacher at an elementary school.
“I think it is important to help shape the foundation of a child’s life because it affects who they will become in the future,” she said. “My goal is to make an impact beyond the classroom so that my students will remember what I teach and see a glimpse of Jesus.”
Do you know a current Malone student who is maximizing their academic potential through hands-on learning opportunities like internships or service to the greater community? Recommend them to be featured in our Student Profiles story series!