by Leah Richmond, '09

After finishing her bachelor’s in education from UCF, Kelsey Tyler (’10) decided to return to her alma mater to complete her graduate degree. She is now pursuing a graduate degree in educational leadership, a program that’s in the top 80 in the nation.

Attending UCF was an easy choice for Kelsey—she realized she belonged here during a tour of the campus. “One of the reasons that I chose UCF was the fact that the campus is so amazing,” shares Kelsey. Even with its size, she never felt overwhelmed and always felt at home on UCF’s campus. “What I love about the campus is the fact that there is so much to do and everyone on campus seems so happy to be here.”

The College of Education faculty also motivated her to succeed, encouraging her to study harder and helping find internship opportunities. “The courses prepared students for entrance to real life classrooms,” Kelsey said. ”The most valuable feature offered in the College of Education is an internship opportunity that is extremely hands-on. Throughout the internship, the faculty continued to offer feedback and advice.”

In addition to the help faculty provided, Kelsey received a scholarship—the Morcom Family Endowed Scholarship. “Since this scholarship allowed me to fully dedicate my attention to my studies and internship, it helped to reinforce the fact that this was the right career choice for me.”

Dr. Rita Buchoff and Ms. Taylar Clements, two of Kelsey’s instructors, both recognize the important opportunities scholarships provide for students. In these economically trying times students are sometimes cut from their jobs and unable to pursue their academic dreams because of financial concerns. As Ms. Clements states, “Scholarships are opportunities and students will not have limitations.

Dr. Buchoff adds, “Financial help provided by scholarships like the Morcom fund enables students to be fully rested so they can give 100% to their school work and their internships. These students represent the scholarship family and Kelsey is a wonderful example or this representation.”

Kelsey recognizes and wants to be a part of the important role teachers play in creating a future for children. “My ultimate goal is to become a positive role model for children. If I am on the policy side of the school system, I will also be able to create a positive learning atmosphere,” Kelsey says.

She always feels at home in the classroom and credits her success to the support provided by the staff and faculty of the College of Education. “Support is important when it comes to success, but ultimately you have to love what you do.”