FACULTY NEWS
Credential Students Build Strong Bonds in Yosemite
In a new tradition, students in the teaching credential program spend a weekend in Yosemite before the fall semester starts. “We seek to build strong relationships in the cohort while enjoying God’s creation,” says Carolyn Mitten, assistant professor of education. “The trip has quickly become a favorite memory for many graduates.”
Students appreciate the time together. “As we dive into a year of unknowns, having an opportunity to bond with our classmates allows us to rely on each other through the struggles,” says Ashley Kytlica. “Additionally, sharing meals fostered fruitful conversations.”
“It was refreshing to interact with everyone outside of our typical classroom context,” says Julia White. “And Vernal Falls was spectacularly beautiful.”
Christine Venzor describes it as “a time of deep conversation and laughter and being surrounded by God’s beautiful creation with people who mean so much to me.”
“I felt the professors cared for me, and I loved getting to know the other credential candidates better,” says Chloe Harber. “It’s special to chat while walking through a grove of giant sequoias or up to a majestic waterfall.”
“This time helped me ask questions of myself I don’t often ask or answer,” says Claudia Canizares Guerra. “It was beautiful being surrounded by a Christ-focused group ready to face the highs and the lows with me.”
“As a secondary teaching credential candidate, I had few classes with my elementary teaching peers,” says Brenna Corcoran Tang. “During this weekend, I got to know these students in a real, personal way, which set me up for a wonderful semester of learning with them.”