Introduce yourself! What's your name, program of study, and current stage of your graduate studies?

My name is Sarah Schlottman, I am currently in the Transition to Teaching program at WSU, and I am in my second semester. I plan to complete the Master's in Education after the initial two year program is complete. 

What motivated you to pursue a graduate degree in your chosen field?

I chose to pursue this program as teaching has always been a dream of mine. I switched careers from retail management to teaching. The WSU T2T program provided me the opportunity to pursue teaching high school Speech/Theater, as I earned my BA in Communication in 2014. 

What has been your favorite part about your graduate student experience so far? 

My favorite part of my graduate experience so far is getting to know my teacher cohort and getting to know and teach my own students. The T2T program is unique in that I am the teacher of record while taking my graduate courses. I enjoy hearing strategies from the other teachers in my program. Even though we are teaching different subject areas, we still have the shared experience of being first-year teachers. We share strategies with each other that we can apply in our own classrooms. 

How have your graduate studies challenged you and contributed to your personal and professional growth?

It's a lot of work! It is challenging balancing the graduate courses while teaching and coaching full-time. It is beneficial to have the courses at the same time, though; whenever I have a question or concern about something that's not working, I can ask my cohort in the program. It is collaborative by nature. 

How do you maintain a work-life balance as a student, and do you have any self-care tips for managing the demands?

Work-life balance is tough right now but getting better. The first year of teaching is challenging on its own . Add graduate courses, coaching debate, and a family to take care of and it's a recipe for disaster without some sort of balance. What I have learned is it's okay to say no. Do not bring your work home with you. If you're a teacher, do your best to stick to your contract hours. If you can't, set a time limit at home. Take a personal day!  Find something you enjoy and take time to relax. I really like using a planner, so write in due dates for assignments and get ahead when you have an easy week. 

Has there been a key influence or mentor in your academic journey?

My high school journalism teacher, Mrs. Knoop, has had a huge influence on my academic journey. We stayed connected via social media after I graduated and she has been my cheerleader from the moment I decided to switch careers and go into teaching. Her advice and encouragement as I muddle through this first year is priceless.

What are your long-term career goals or aspirations in your field after completing your graduate program?

After I complete my graduate program I plan to stay in education long-term. My initial goal is to grow from a good teacher to a great teacher. I plan to continue coaching high school debate and forensics. I don't know if I will ever move into an administrative role, but it's not out of the realm of possibilities. 

Can you share a fun or unique fact about yourself that most people wouldn't know?

A unique fact that most people wouldn't know is how much I have traveled. I have visited 48 of the 50 U.S. states, and visited 10 different countries on 3 continents. I have a personal goal of traveling to all 7 continents in my lifetime. Perhaps after I graduate with my Masters we'll celebrate with a family vacation to a new country.