My Name is Shelby Pepmeyer (Part 2)

I am a 2017 graduate of Clarion University. I am also your outgoing 2016-17 Student PSEA President. “I always knew I wanted to be an educator, but I never knew that my dream would lead me here.” These were some of the first words I wrote to you in my first blog as the new Student PSEA president last September. I introduced myself and hoped that I could inspire all of you to become more involved with Student PSEA.

 

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.