Meet Patra Pol

Hometown: Euless, Texas
Major/certification area and anticipated graduation year: EC-6 Core Subjects + EC-12 SPED and Spring of 2028 

Why did you choose to attend UT Arlington?

- I chose to attend UTA because of its distance from home but also the diversity of the university. 

What is your favorite thing about the College of Education at UT Arlington?

- So far, I really appreciate my peers and how many of them are positive and dedicated they are towards their degree.

Who is your favorite professor or staff member? Why?

- One professor I have gotten to know well is Erica Bajo Calderon. I’ve had her for the past 2 semesters, and she’s made me feel more confident in class, especially because math has always been a struggle for me.

What class have you enjoyed the most?

- Out of the education-based classes I’ve taken, I’ve enjoyed the math education classes the most. Even though math is not always the easiest, I enjoy the challenge and complex thinking I have to do.

What activities or hobbies do you participate in outside of class?

- Outside of school, I love music. I have been singing most of my life and have been playing guitar and piano for around 6 years.

What are your plans after graduation? When you think about your future career in education, what excites you the most?

- After graduation, I definitely plan on becoming a teacher. I think that the idea of being able to have my classroom based on my personal rules, decorate it, and become a leader for young minds.

What is the one thing you think a prospective Education student needs to know?

- One thing any prospective education student should know is not forgetting to have fun too. Being able to connect with peers, make friends, and make connections is a big part of college outside of learning and getting your degree.

Have you overcome any challenges that you feel would help inspire other Education majors?

- One big challenge that I believe any college student would relate to is getting used to college. Over time, getting used to being on campus, what to expect in class, and your overall routine takes time. It took me a year to become more confident with being at UTA.