Senior Spotlight: Hannah Weidler
By Amanda Duchsherer
Digital Communication Specialist
amanda.duchsherer@minotstateu.edu
MINOT, N.D. – Hannah Weidler always knew she would pursue a teaching degree at Minot State.
“There is a long-standing tradition of going to Minot State among my family. My grandma, mom, brothers, and many of my cousins have attended and graduated from here,” the Velva native said. “I knew that Minot State offered one of the best teacher education programs in North Dakota.”
While she knew the University and teaching were in her future, it wasn’t until her final year in high school that she settled on which particular degree she would obtain.
“My high school had a program where seniors had the option to help in the elementary classrooms,” she said. “I worked directly with a student who received special education services. I found the experience very rewarding and that was the foundation of my decision of pursuing my special education degree.”
Weidler spent her undergraduate years involved with the Student Council for Exceptional Children, including serving as secretary for part of her junior and senior years, and has enjoyed the personal involvement from faculty and staff.
“The special education faculty is amazing and willing to help you with anything,” she said. “One thing I will miss the most is Mrs. Lee’s (Heather Lee, special education instructor) chocolate chip cooks and all the food Dr. Pedersen (Holly Pedersen, special education department chair) would bring to the office to share with us.”
Although she will miss the intimate atmosphere at Minot State, Weidler is looking towards the fall. She has accepted a special education strategist position at Sunnyside Elementary in Minot, where she student taught.
In the classroom was where Jenna Arnold, special education adjunct instructor, witnessed Weidler excel.
“I saw her grow so much,” said Arnold. “Seeing her during student teaching was seeing her in her element. She came alive and was so passionate and just an all-around natural with the students.”
“I loved getting to know the students I was working with and building connections with them. It made the student teaching experience that much more fun for both the students and myself,” Weidler said. “The teachers at Sunnyside are all so amazing, too. They really got to know me and taught me so much. I can’t wait to teach beside them this coming school year!”
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
| Published: 05/21/20 |
