Susie is the third of four children in her family, all born and raised in Grand Island, NE. Having a mom who worked as a teacher, teaching in special education, middle school English, and elementary counseling throughout her career, Susie saw the various aspects of education from an early age and was drawn to this field herself. Spending time in various schools and even teaching for a summer in Shen Zhen, China, Susie was eager to begin her teaching career. Graduating in December, Susie took a job as an ELL teacher in Lincoln, NE starting in January. During her five years of teaching, Susie obtained her Master of Education in Literacy through Concordia University Nebraska online. Though absolutely loving her job, her coworkers, and her students, Susie felt God was calling her to the next step in her professional career which led her to Hillsdale College.
What brought you to Hillsdale?
Throughout my own education, growing up in the public school system, I often felt like something was missing. This feeling increased during my time working as a public-school teacher as well as when considering the education I desired for my own children. This feeling that something was missing and that I desperately wanted something better led me to find the MACE Program at Hillsdale College. Upon being accepted, through much prayer and consideration, my husband and I decided this degree was something we wanted to pursue for the benefit of our family and our community; so in August of 2023 my husband and I along with our two children made the move from Nebraska to Michigan.
What has been your greatest academic challenge thus far?
My greatest academic challenge thus far has also been my greatest joy. The feeling I carried with me for so long that my education had been lacking something fundamental was proved correct. For the first time I am learning about and beginning to understand the rich intellectual traditions upon which classical education was built. Though I have an enormous amount to learn, I believe my time here at Hillsdale College will equip me to help carry these traditions into the future.
Create an account to begin the process or check the status of your application.