Opportunities for Professional Development

Many of your learning experiences happen outside the classroom through involvement in student government, clubs and volunteer experiences.  These experiences can also add to your professional development (your future teaching career).

Here are a few suggestions for activities to get involved with!

TEAM (Tomorrow’s Educators for the Advancement of Minorities):  This student organization can make a difference in the academic and personal development of minority students interested in teaching.  Contact Sonja Gunnings-Moton (gunnings@msu.edu).

STUDENT COUNCIL FOR EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN:  This group is a local chapter of the National Council for Exceptional Children.  The group promotes awareness of exceptional children through discussion and service.  For more information contact Edna Felmlee (felmlee@msu.edu )

THE SPECIALIZATION IN COACHING:  This specialization is designed to provide students with knowledge, skills, and experiences that will enable them to coach effectively and safely in school, community-youth, and adult sports programs.  Students who complete the specialization will be eligible to take the examination for certification as a Program for Athletic Coaches’ Education (PACE) Coach.  For more information see the Kinesiology advisor in 134 Erickson.

THE SPECIALIZATION IN HEALTH PROMOTION:  This specialization is designed to assist students in understanding health issues that will serve as a basis for personal and professional growth and positive lifestyle changes.  For more information see the Kinesiology advisor in 134 Erickson.

KAPPA DELTA PI:  Undergraduate Education Honor Society.  Education majors (accepted Juniors and Seniors), with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above, are invited to join this education honor society.  Contact Joan Smith (smithj56@msu.edu ).

SERVICE LEARNING CENTER:  This office on campus, located in Student Services Building, has lists of volunteer opportunities appropriate for education majors.  Volunteer placements are in classrooms, with youth groups and with tutoring programs.  This is a great way to get experience with learners!!

FRIENDSHOP:  This is an after-school enrichment program at local elementary schools run entirely by MSU students.  Contact friends@msu.edu

READ TO SUCCEED/STUDENT LITERACY CORPS:  This organization recruits and trains MSU students to serve as literacy tutors.  Contact Jerry King, 420-1849 or literacy@msu.edu.