Amazing Student: Laura Conway
A Double Dawg hailing from Maryland, Laura Conway (B.S.Ed. ’25, M.Ed. ’26) represents the Mary Frances Early College of Education as a student ambassador and served as an orientation leader for the University of Georgia in summer 2023. Her passion for working with middle grades students includes experiences working as a fourth-grade recovery teacher in her hometown’s summer school program and a flex child and youth program assistant for the Navy.
- Hometown: Hollywood, Maryland
- Degree objective and graduation date: B.S.Ed. in middle grades education with an emphasis in social studies and English language arts, spring 2025; M.Ed. in middle grades education, 2026
Ever since I was a kid, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I had a passion for education and lifelong learning, lovingly ingrained by my parents and grandparents. I knew that I wanted to teach English and social studies, as those were my favorite subjects, but what grades?
When reflecting on my experiences as a student, I remembered two classes in particular: fifth grade social studies, and sixth grade English. Mrs. Donahue’s and Mrs. Peterson’s classes lit the fire that made me passionate about each subject. I knew I needed to teach upper elementary and middle school, but I didn’t know how I could get that particular degree. That is when I found the middle grades education program at the University of Georgia.
A friend of mine went to UGA and would not stop talking about how wonderful her experiences were. I knew the University had a wonderful campus, a great student body, and a pretty great football team—I just needed to look more into the career options. The middle grades education program had everything I could have ever wanted and more. From distinguished professors, and hands-on classroom experience, to a rigorous course load that allows students to be certified in two content areas, middle grades education has been a dream. Due to a wonderful scholarship and parents who were willing to let me go to school a mere nine and a half hours away, as of May, I will be able to teach both of my favorite subjects as well as fourth through eighth grade in the state of Georgia!
What was your favorite class in the Mary Frances Early College of Education and why?
I have been lucky to have had several marvelous classes in the Mary Frances Early College of Education middle grades education program. One class in particular, Dr. Petros Panaou’s children’s literature class, may be my favorite of them all. Dr. Panaou is a children’s literature genius! His passion for accessible middle grade novels has spread to every person in my cohort, favoring graphic novels and relatable stories. In this course, I learned how to successfully integrate graphic novels, comic books, fiction chapter books, etc. into any subject I teach. I didn’t realize it was possible to enjoy so many middle level books! I remember one class where Dr. Panaou had us create our own comics step by step, passing the comic strip to a new person after each round! It was such a fun and engaging strategy to learn, especially after reading so many wonderful graphic novels as mentor texts. Dr. Panaou’s class holds a special place in my heart, as he created a safe space for all intended educators to learn how to inspire the love of literature for all students.
You currently serve as a student ambassador for the College. What made you want to get involved in the program?
I always heard from peers and friends that being an ambassador for the College was both fun, an honor, and a privilege. Once I determined that this is an opportunity that I wanted to pursue, I took a deeper look at all that the College represents. Named the Mary Frances Early College of Education in 2020, the College embodies the legacy of the first Black graduate of the University of Georgia. Mary Frances Early is a steadfast symbol of perseverance and courage, as she earned her master’s degree in music education. Ms. Early still visits campus, giving talks and offering wisdom to those around her. She is known for her dedication to education, and, as corroborated by many sources, her wit and humor! I knew that it would be a privilege to serve as an ambassador for a college that means so much, and that I, therefore, needed to apply. I love being an ambassador for the College. It has been such a joy!
Previously you served as an orientation leader for UGA, a fourth-grade recovery teacher, and a flex child and youth program assistant for the Navy. Can you describe your responsibilities in these roles and how they helped you prepare for your future career?
In the summer of 2023, I served as a New Student Orientation leader. That summer was a transformative experience, to say the very least! I and my 19 newest friends served as resources to students and families during and after orientation. We answered questions, shared relevant information and personal anecdotes, and connected students to campus resources. I served as the Dynamite Dozen group leader and discussion facilitator for students during each session. I did this while providing tours of campus, facilitating administrative duties, creating social media posts, and performing in skits and other presentations for New Student Orientation. As a Maryland native, I was utilized as the sole out-of-state orientation leader, which meant I talked on multiple panels and Q&As for students and parents. That sounds like a lot, but each task and responsibility was, simply put, fun! I spent an entire summer talking about the university I loved with the people I loved. I learned how to effectively communicate with coworkers and student supporters, two aspects crucial in the field of education. After performing a cappella on a stage in front of a thousand people, teaching to a classroom of students didn’t seem all that scary anymore. During that summer, my team and I laughed together, cried together, saw each other nearly 24 hours a day, and somehow didn’t get sick of one another. It was a time that I will always be able to fondly look back on and reminisce about while staying in touch with my wonderful team!
In the summer of 2022, I served as a fourth-grade recovery teacher for my hometown summer school program. In this role, I created lesson plans based on county-based curriculum, focusing on literary comprehension and syllabic understanding. I instructed two classes of fourth-grade students, monitored recess, and aided in pick up and drop off. This experience taught me two invaluable lessons: how deeply I wanted to become a teacher and how much I appreciated the dedication of educators who go above and beyond to make learning engaging—even in the summer. I learned this from a lot of veteran teachers who took me under their wing for the summer, and gently taught me how to become the best version of myself. Being a teacher is so much more than putting pen to paper, it’s making connections with your students and with your colleagues. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from experienced educators who inspired me to embrace both the challenges and rewards of teaching. This experience solidified my passion for education, shaping my perspective on what it truly means to be an impactful teacher. I carry the lessons I learned that summer, knowing they will continue to guide me throughout my career.
As a flex child and youth program assistant for the Navy, I worked directly with children and youth to help them develop social skills, make healthy choices, and build self-help skills. In this role, I created daily schedules, helped plan activities, prepared activity areas, and cared for children of all abilities. I communicated with colleagues and parents throughout the summer to ensure the program ran smoothly for everyone involved. This role was enlightening. I learned the ins and outs of government childcare with an incredible staff by my side. My coworkers taught me how to create positive and safe environments for children of all ages by leading with empathy and understanding. I completed multiple professional development modules throughout the summer namely safe environments, healthy habits, etc. Beyond the skills I developed, this experience reaffirmed my passion for working with children. It showed me how a nurturing, structured environment can impact a child’s confidence and growth. The lessons I learned—both in leadership and compassion—will continue to shape my approach to education and child development for years to come.
Why are you passionate about middle grades education?
I am a huge advocate for middle level instruction! Teaching middle grades, from fourth to eighth grade, is such a blessing. You get to encounter students in one of the most transformative times of their lives. I’ve always felt called by God to teach middle school as one of my vocations. These students need steadfast support, love, and empathy, as they transform into young adults. It is one of the most vulnerable times of their lives.
Middle school students are hysterical and honest. One of the most refreshing parts about teaching middle school is seeing them turn into individuals. I’ve watched my students grow up physically—one of my students is now taller than me—and mentally, as I’ve answered the deepest questions you would never expect to come from a sixth grader. I often catch myself learning something new from my students. Whether it’s a new TikTok dance, a new slang word, or a new perspective about history, teaching middle grades includes being a student in your own regard.
The middle grades education program at UGA has fostered my love for middle level education. My professors, program coordinators, and cohort friends have given me a community I will continue to rely on as I enter the workforce. This program thoroughly prepared me with the necessary pedagogy, and content knowledge to successfully serve as a student teacher. I could write an entire paper on my love for middle grades education! Middle level instruction is one of my many passions that make me who I am.
What are your plans following graduation?
After I graduate with my bachelor’s degree in middle grades education, I plan to return to Athens for one final year and get my master’s degree in middle grades education! I have received a graduate assistantship from the Office of Student Success and Achievement, and I will spend the upcoming year in that office. I am beyond thankful for all the wonderful opportunities I have had as an undergraduate student and am excited for all that is to come. After I receive my M.Ed., I will hopefully teach overseas for a bit, learning different global perspectives in education.