College of Education Student Ambassador

I chose to attend UTA because of the campus. I was not very sure where I wanted to go to school at first, but when I toured UTA, I fell in love.

Meet Raven Parker

Hometown: Marshall, TX
Major/certification area and anticipated graduation year: English with secondary teaching certification and 2025

Raven Parker holding the UTA school flagWhy did you choose to attend UT Arlington?
  • I chose to attend UTA because of the campus. I wasn’t very sure where I wanted to go to school at first, but when I toured UTA, I fell in love with the beautiful campus. It was also moderately close to home, so that also meant a lot to me.
What is your favorite thing about the College of Education at UT Arlington?
  • My favorite thing about the College of Education are the people. Everyone here is so friendly and always willing to help if you need it. We also get a lot of opportunities outside of classes to get experience for our future careers, such as volunteering, leadership training, and many other helpful activities.
Who is your favorite professor or staff member? Why?
  • My favorite staff member is Monique Bird, who oversees us College of Education Ambassadors.
What class have you enjoyed the most?
  • My favorite class was the Education 2302 class. I took it my first semester here at UTA and got to really jump into some of the basics of what being a teacher is all about.
What activities or hobbies do you participate in outside of class?
  • Outside of class, I love to crochet, play with my cats, read, and go shopping!
What are your plans after graduation? When you think about your future career in education, what excites you the most? 
  • After graduation, I hope to start teaching English in high school. I’m most excited about making a difference in my students’ lives, but I’m also looking forward in how they’ll impact my life as well! Even as a teacher, you’re never done learning.
What is the one thing you think a prospective Education student needs to know?
  • Being an Education student is so important! No matter what, teachers will always be needed. If you ever feel like you’re making the wrong decision, just trust yourself and know that being in Education is an amazing thing.
Have you overcome any challenges that you feel would help inspire other Education majors?
  • Before I joined the College of Education, I knew I had wanted to teach, but I was so nervous that I wouldn’t be able to get over my anxiety of having to be a leader and a role-model. Over time, with help from my professors and the College of Education staff, I have been able to overcome that, and I feel like I can face any challenge that comes my way.