Honors Program Profile Isabella Swindell

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Jumping In: The Journey through Honors

A Profile of Isabella Swindell, Second-Year Honors Program

Isabella Swindell is a second-year honors student majoring in early childhood and special education. Apart from being in the honors program, she has an impressive academic repertoire and is the president of the education club. An outgoing personality, she was even invited to give a speech at convocation at the beginning of the fall semester - a true honor for a second-year student.

Isabella wants to become a teacher, specializing in early childhood and special education. She credits the honors program for giving her the confidence to realize this dream, citing the opportunities and critical thinking skills (among various other positive attributes) given to her by joining the program. "I have all of these skills that I'm learning which will help me become more successful, and that's really what I want." She added that she feels as though the honors program allows her to gain hands-on practical experience.

The honors program, no doubt, helped Isabella to be the all-star student that she is today-Isabella recognizes the class Honors 101 as one of her favorites, stating that the class empowered her to be successful both academically and socially, "If you're going to be a teacher, you can't be quiet, so [the honors program] pushed me to be a lot more outgoing and learn a lot about myself."

Many students, as Isabella will confirm, balk at the "Directed Readings" class which is a requirement for the honors program. But looks can be deceiving. "For one," said Isabella, "you get to pick your mentor, [and] you get to pick your topic, so you're reading something that's interesting to you." Motivation is key, and for Isabella the ability to work on a genuine interest made all the difference. "You focus on what's going to be helpful to you." Isabella reflected that it was an incredibly fun experience and enjoyed being able to learn at her own pace.

When asked what she would say to a student considering the honors program, Isabella said, "Just try it. You don't have to complete it if you are feeling overwhelmed, but by giving it a chance you'll realize, not only is it doable, but you're going to enjoy it and get a lot out of it."