From Rich Hill, Missouri, Kylann Tourtillott has been a part of Missouri State University’s community since fall 2018.
She started as a biology major and transitioned to education as she learned more about her interests.
Tourtillott is set to graduate this spring with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education through MSU’s Outreach program.
She provided some insight into her experience at Missouri State and shared advice for future education students.
Q&A with Tourtillott
What is your program and why did you choose it?
My major is elementary education (grades 1-6). When I first attended MSU, I was a biology major, though I had no idea what I wanted to do. I continued taking various classes trying to decide where I belonged, changing my major a few times along the way.
COVID hit during the spring semester of my second year. I decided to move home and continue my education online. While living at home, I had the opportunity to be a substitute teacher at my local elementary school. From the moment I stepped foot in the classroom, I knew I had discovered my purpose.
I began researching the programs available for this career path. It was then that I discovered the elementary education Outreach program at Missouri State. I was able to continue my education at MSU while taking all of my classes at the local community college in Nevada. This allowed me to continue working in the classroom while earning my degree.
Do you have any favorite memories or aspects about your program or MSU?
I’ve made several memories during my time on the main campus and through the Outreach program. However, I think my favorite memories have come from student teaching.
Throughout this semester, I’ve been able to watch myself grow with my students. I’ve felt my confidence increase with every lesson I taught. I’ve built connections with my students that have had positive effects on both them and me.
Some of my favorite memories come from watching students have those “aha” moments when a concept they’ve been struggling with finally begins to make sense to them.
My ultimate goal as a teacher is to have a positive effect on my students. Being a student teacher has allowed me the opportunity to experience how rewarding that feels.
What are your plans once you graduate?
After graduation, I plan to begin my career. I’ve accepted a position to teach first grade at an elementary school near my hometown. Right now, the plan is just to build my experience in the classroom.
However, I know eventually, I would like to further my education. I’ve not decided on a specific graduate program, but right now, I’m interested in education policy and educational leadership.
Do you feel your program prepared you to succeed in your future career and/or personal life?
I feel very prepared to succeed in both my future career and my personal life thanks to my program. I believe my classes gave me the basic knowledge I need to succeed in the classroom.
I’ve found most of my learning has come from my time in the elementary classrooms, as there are some scenarios you just can’t plan for. Missouri State accounts for this and begins incorporating time in the classroom early in the program.
Do you have any advice for future Bears?
My advice to future Bears is to not stress and enjoy your time at Missouri State. If you are the least bit interested in a career, find a position that allows you to gain experience. Get involved, whether that’s with campus life, your program or other organizations. Your time in college will fly by faster than you think, so make the best of it.