'99 BS Preschool & Family Life alumna from Cederville, MI
Meet Mary Polk, a 1999 BS Preschool & Family Life alumna from Cedarville, MI. Mary is currently employed as a Montessori Elementary guide for grades first through third at Stepping Stones Montessori School in Grand Rapids.
What at NMU helped you most in your current role?
Mary Disbrow was a professor of mine while I was enrolled in Child Development courses at NMU. I recall spending a morning during one of my courses listening to Mary speak about the Montessori Philosophy and I knew right away that I wanted to become a Montessori educator after graduation. Mary helped me think about a teaching environment that would be a better fit for my learning style needs. Also, she encouraged me to explore working towards an Elementary certification in Montessori. I am forever grateful that Mary helped steer me in the right direction. The courses I took in the areas of preschool and family life helped remind me of how important it is to build relationships with students and their families. These courses prepared me to understand the transition from Preschool and Kindergarten to Elementary.
What advice would you give current students?
Make a list of your strengths, interests, and gifts. Then explore what specific degrees will help you practice them.
I was once taught by an NMU professor that at any age (whether it’s now or later in life) that you may not know what you want to do in life. And that’s okay. Give yourself “time” to explore what will make you happy or happier.