From an early age, Emily Jamison knew she wanted to attend the Clarion campus of Pennsylvania Western University. Her father, Larry, is an alumnus of Clarion University, and her mother, Ann, served as executive assistant to the Clarion University president for 33 years. 

That family connection, paired with Clarion’s long-standing reputation for preparing strong educators, made PennWest Clarion a natural choice. Jamison will graduate May 9 with a Bachelor of Science, dual majoring in middle level and secondary education English. 

She enrolled at PennWest knowing she wanted to become an English teacher. Still, Jamison valued the guidance she received from Dr. Jesse Haight, who served as both her academic advisor and professor. 

“He guided me through course selections and any other issues I encountered along the way,” Jamison said. 

She described faculty and staff as supportive of students’ academic and personal needs and said involvement beyond the classroom played an important role in her growth. 

“During my time at PennWest, I developed greater organization and leadership skills through managing academics and extracurricular activities, which will assist me in my teaching career,” she said. “I became the president of English Club and enjoyed attending many campus events, and I was a member of the homecoming court all four years.” 

Jamison is proud of her accomplishments, particularly the confidence she has gained as a future educator. She credits faculty members, including Dr. Haight, with helping her see herself in the classroom. 

That preparation became clear during her first field placement. 

“When I walked into my first field placement classroom, I felt prepared, excited and ready to be there. I knew at that moment that I was ready to be a teacher, and I was ready to succeed,” Jamison said. 

Her subsequent placements further strengthened that confidence. 

“I have greatly enjoyed my block and both of my student teaching placements. My mentor teachers were excellent, supportive, and made me feel ready to have my own classroom,” she said. “I will take the wonderful memories and excellent practical advice with me to a teaching position.” 

Jamison is seeking a middle level position teaching English. This summer, she will continue her education at PennWest, having enrolled in the master’s program in advanced study in education with a concentration in curriculum, instruction and leadership. 

Her advice to prospective students reflects her experience at Clarion. 

“Give PennWest Clarion a chance and enjoy all that this campus has to offer, be it small classes, friendly faculty or a lovely town. Get involved, make new friends, and try to live outside your comfort zone,” she said. “PennWest provided me an education which will enable me to live out my dream as an educator.”