Teacher Appreciation Week: Q&A with alumna Juanita McClain
Juanita McClain, ’16, ’20, credits a Buffalo State professor’s recognition of her affinity for education with setting her on the path to become a teacher. Today, she brings that passion to her role as a tenth grade Earth Science Teacher at McKinley High School.
In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, McClain spoke with us about how her time at Buffalo State has had a lasting impact on her career.
When and how did you know that education was the right fit for you?
I had a professor at Buffalo State—Dr. Solar—who really encouraged me and gave me that motivation to become a teacher. He saw the energy and that spark that I brought to the classroom when we had to create lessons or model things in class. His words of encouragement made me want to stick on this path.
How and why did you choose Buffalo State?
I chose it for its location and its beauty and, of course, because of the science programs. I wanted to stick with the science background that I had from my associate’s degree and carry on somewhere I knew that they had really great courses. Buffalo State was a perfect choice.
How did Buffalo State support you on your path to becoming a teacher?
The support was well-rounded. Not only could you get that one-on-one time because class sizes were small, but you also had people who really showed that they cared for you and that they would support it you in any way. If you were not doing well at some point, you had teachers who actually cared and would help you to navigate and do better.
What lesson from Buffalo State has stayed with you?
I took a psychology class, and one day the lesson was about different kind of students, how all kids were different, and how they learn at different times on different paths. That so that really stuck with me, so when I got in the classroom, it really helped me understand each student differently. I still carry that with me. I'm really happy to have such wonderful professors in my life that I had here at Buff State.
What advice do you have for new teachers?
Be you, be comfortable, and always try to build strong connections with your students and your coworkers, because that's what's going to give you the best outcomes in your teaching career.
Photo by Jesse Steffan-Colucci, Buffalo State photographer.
