Mary Elizabeth Thornton will teach North Carolinian middle school students with the
education and experience she received at Wichita State University.
Meet a Shocker: Mary Elizabeth Thornton
May 3, 2023
By Strategic Communications
College of Applied Studies
When it comes to producing qualified educators, athletic trainers, exercise scientists
and sport management professionals—nobody offers more than Wichita State's College
of Applied Studies. We combine nationally accredited programs, exclusive scholarships
and unmatched applied learning opportunities to give our students everything they
need to build bright futures.
Mary Elizabeth Thornton is ready to put her education at Wichita State University
into practice and begin teaching mathematics to middle school students in North Carolina.
Mary Elizabeth is one of more than 2,200 students eligible for spring 2023 graduation.
Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.
Hometown
Denison, Texas
Degree
Bachelor of Arts in education – mathematics (middle)
What made you want to attend Wichita State?
I chose Wichita State because from the moment I took my first step on campus, I knew
I was supposed to be here.
How are you feeling leading up to graduation?
I am feeling nostalgic about all the memories I’ve made and experiences I have had
at Wichita State these past four years but excited for the future and my career as
an educator.
What has been your most helpful learning experience at Wichita State, and biggest
challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge and most helpful learning experience as a student at Wichita
State was navigating being a student leader. I knew I needed to be an advocate, but
I didn't know how to be an advocate when I first stepped into leadership roles on
campus. I overcame this challenge by leaning on the students and staff that I had
around me. Had I not had these mentors to learn from and to guide me, I'm sure my
path would have been much different.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I am moving to North Carolina to teach middle school math and explore
a new part of the country.
What advice would you give other Wichita State students?
Lean into what is uncomfortable. Continue to learn, grow and challenge yourself in
every situation you come into. Make the most of your time while you are here and never
let anyone tell you that you can't do anything you set your mind to.
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling
almost 22,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from
every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are
recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in
the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM),
Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of
applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one
of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing
over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
