Education sophomore Kaylee Estrada, historian for the Future Teachers Organization seeks clarification about volunteer opportunities at Scobee Education Center. Norma Cruz-Gonzales, one of the organization’s sponsors, is encouraging the members to get out and volunteer at educational fairs and conferences to make an identity for themselves as part of the Future Teachers Organization Feb. 18 in Gonzales Hall. Photo by Ryann Palacios
By Christie Tavera
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
Students discussed marketing, conference updates, partnerships and scholarships Feb. 18 at the first spring meeting of the Future Teachers Organization.
Veronica Spring Jones, newly elected president and education sophomore, welcomed everyone by announcing the club’s newest officers.
Members were encouraged to apply for scholarships available through the Alamo Colleges website at www.alamo.edu/sac/scholarships.
Priority deadline is April 3.
With several scholarships up for grabs, Jones advised students to be specific in answering questionnaires and writing essays.
“Think of reality TV. Be dramatic. Add the detail!” Jones said.
Professor Mary Anne Bernal, who sits on the scholarship review committee, explained that students leave off important information about their community service and leadership experience on the applications.
She pointed out the more information you provide, the better.
Look at the long term, she said.
The organization has newly forged partnerships between the University of Texas at San Antonio’s College of Education and Human Development and at least three clubs there.
Education students are encouraged to obtain early experience by volunteering to mentor for clubs such as the Academy for Teacher Excellence and robotics clubs.
Membership in the Future Teachers Organization is not required to volunteer, all students are welcome.
Education students should also consider attending local conferences where they can volunteer and connect with other educators.
“A lot of students don’t understand how important it is to attend these conferences as part of their professional development,” said English Professor Norma Cruz-Gonzales.
Club members were asked to help with Saturday’s “Out In Space, Down to Earth”, the 22nd Annual Educator Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Conference at Scobee Education Center.
Bernal summed it up by saying, “The club is here to support you and your journey.”
Education students seeking additional experience or opportunities, call the Future Teachers Organization at 210-486-0658.
