Over the last year as president,
I have met so many people and created so many friendships and relationships. I
have learned more than I ever thought I would. I have watched this organization
grow and I did things that I never could have imaged doing. Four years ago,
when I stepped onto Clarion University’s campus, I didn’t know what was in
store for me. I used Student PSEA as an escape from a not-so-great roommate
situation. What I didn’t know was that Student PSEA would not only save me from
my roommates, but save me from becoming a naïve educator who thought the world
of education was all rainbows and butterflies, and closing my classroom door to
teach my students.
Student PSEA taught me that I have a voice
in education. It taught me that although sometimes the education world is
tough, PSEA is tougher and they have our backs through every hardship and
success. Student PSEA taught me that I’m not alone when I need advice about
classroom management, help finding a job, or assistance communicating with a difficult
parent. I have made connections through PSEA to last me a lifetime. Connections
with people that have become more than just colleagues or friends, these people
are my family.
(My Student PSEA Family)
(My Union Parents, Brian Reiser and Rosetta Dufalla.
My Region President and Vice President from Midwestern Region)
As I look back over my past
year as president, I realize that there were times that I could have worked a
little harder, listened a little closer, or learned a little bit more. However,
I would never change my experience. This experience has helped me grow and
become a better person. It has given me the ability to problem solve better
than I ever thought I could. It has allowed me to develop communication skills
that will continue with me as I apply for jobs, talk to parents, and discuss
issues with colleagues.
I know that leaving this
position is going to be one of my hardest tasks over the past four years of
college, but I know I am leaving it in good hands. Marie, your incoming 2017-18
state president will do amazing in this role. She will help bring a new piece
to Student PSEA. She will bring a new perspective and a new attitude, one I
know that will be a positive change for Student PSEA. The two of us are very
different in many ways, not a good or bad way, just different.
I hope that I have served you well
as state president. I cherish every moment and opportunity I have had over the
past year. All I can hope is that one day, all of you fall in love with this
organization the way that I did and the way I know Marie will and has.
Dear aspiring educator, you
are building the future, go forth with confidence, hold your head up high, and
be a leader. For someday, one of your students will look back and say, “I am
here because my teacher believed in me”, just like I believe in you. You can do
it, you will do it, and you will be successful. Believe it.
“Sometimes all you need is twenty seconds of insane courage
and I promise you something great will come of it.” – We Bought a Zoo
I am Shelby Pepmeyer. Thank you for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime.
