College of Education Student Ambassador

I grew up in Arlington, so UTA has always been visible. When it came time to choose a college, I knew UTA would be a great choice!

Meet Julie Nickols

Hometown: Arlington, TX
Major/certification area and anticipated graduation year: Elementary Education ESL EC-6, Spring 2024

Julie Nickols holding the UTA school flagWhy did you choose to attend UT Arlington?
  • I've grown up in Arlington, so UTA has always been very visible to me. I grew up going on fields trips here and hearing about all the great programs. When it came time to choose a college, I knew UTA would be a great choice!
What is your favorite thing about the College of Education at UT Arlington?
  • My favorite thing about COEd is the opportunities that it will give me. I am excited to have a degree from UTA's excellent program that I will be able to show to future employers.
Who is your favorite professor or staff member? Why?
  • My favorite staff member is my advisor, Marissa Johnson. She is very kind and helps me with all of my class scheduling questions. She is a great support to have.
What class have you enjoyed the most?
  • I really enjoyed taking "Assessment in Literacy Learning" (LIST 4376). In this class I learned a lot about the basics of phonics. This class prepared me to help my future students be successful in reading and spelling.
What activities or hobbies do you participate in outside of class?
  • Outside of class I enjoy doing nail art and experimenting with different designs. I find that painting my nails helps me to relax after a stressful week. I'm also play the oboe in the UTA Symphonic Band.
What are your plans after graduation? When you think about your future career in education, what excites you the most? 
  • After I graduate, I hope to get a job as a kindergarten teacher somewhere in DFW. I'm very excited to grow as an educator and learn along with my students. I also have a dream of teaching English to students in Europe. I think it would be a really great opportunity to travel the world while pursing my passion of teaching.
What is the one thing you think a prospective Education student needs to know?
  • This is a general college tip but it's important to take time for yourself. In college you spend a lot of time on your computer working on homework and studying. I've found that it's really beneficial for my mental health to take some time away from technology every day, even if it's just a second to hang out with your pet or a 15-minute walk outside.