Jill Vermeulen is an elementary education major with a language arts concentration who is working toward her teaching certificate. She plans to receive her certificate in May 2022.
Why did you decide to come to NMU?
I enjoy the small class sizes and individualized instruction NMU has to offer. You really get to know each and every one of your professors at Northern. Additionally, I love the Upper Peninsula within and of itself, from its awesome trails to its sandy beaches which line the Lake Superior shoreline to the community of people who truly care for not only one another but also the greater community as a whole. I dream to stay in or near the area, and serving as an educator of the next generation of U.P.-residing youth.
How did you decide your major/minor?
When I began college at the age of 17, I did not fully know what exactly I wanted to do with my life. So, I pursued what I love: theater! I thought that a career in theater marketing could be the right fit for me. After graduating with my bachelor’s from NMU, I was working for Superior Arts Youth Theatre as the director of High School Musical, Jr. I found my heart feeling so full throughout that experience, and I felt a sense of divide as to what to do next. It dawned on me while working with the awesome cast on that production that education was a career that I felt called to pursue. While directing, I fell in love with being a guide of students’ learning. I enjoyed making a positive difference in others’ lives and helping to support area youth learn and grow within the context of theater. I constantly found myself wishing I had pursued teaching after that experience. Then one day my boyfriend looked at me and said, plain and simple, “Jill, you keep saying how much you wish you had pursued teaching… Why don’t you go back to school? Become a teacher. It sounds like that is your dream.” He was so right.
Fast forward one year later and I was directing Frozen, Jr. for SAYT while also a full-time first-semester student in the SELPS education program, seeking my teaching certification. My heart was so full, and it still is. Was returning to school the easiest choice to make? No. Nonetheless, I am forever grateful that I made that choice and am chasing my dream, a dream that took me some time to discover (And that is ok). I can undoubtedly say that my NMU experience has been full of opportunity, growth and self-discovery, from my theatrical pursuits to my teaching experiences to every single learning opportunity NMU has had to offer! I’ve felt encouraged and supported by my peers and professors, every step of the way. I cannot wait to graduate in one year and to “Teach Like a Wildcat!” I also look forward to infusing my passion for the arts into my classroom teaching practices in ways that align with academic standards.
What's an example of a cool, interesting or helpful thing that you have done as a part of your major?
There’s so much I’d love to share to answer this question, so I’ll focus on some of my favorites from this past semester: This past semester I had the opportunity to be a math tutor for MSED 151: Mathematics for the Elementary School Teacher II. I also met weekly with a stellar first-grade student for reading experiences. I had the opportunity to create and deliver lessons to that student in a virtual context. I’ve also enjoyed working as a writer for NMU Marketing and Communications!
Do you have any advice for someone who is considering NMU?
Pursue your passions and soak up the experience! During my time at Northern, I’ve had incredible professors who’ve been more than willing to provide support, from resume advice to answering homework questions and more! I’ve made lifelong friends, and have connected with the natural environment of the Great U.P.
