Liam O’Connor is a Wichita State education major specializing in history and government for 6-12th grade. Liam has spent most of his life in Wichita, Kansas, though his journey began in Southern California. Liam is currently working as a student teacher. He has received applied learning funds allowing him to fully focus on developing as a teacher. His responsibilities as a student teacher include—handling instruction, grading, unit creation, and classroom management. His goal after graduation is to become a Social Studies teacher, ideally at a middle school, a choice that often surprises people. “While some think that I am ‘crazy’ for that, I think they are the perfect age!” Looking further ahead, Liam eventually aspires to become a school administrator, envisioning a future where he could lead as a principal.

In his current role, Liam experiences the full spectrum of teaching responsibilities. “Currently I teach, send emails, grade assignments, make units. I am fully involved as the teacher in the classroom.” This hands-on experience has proven invaluable, providing him with a realistic preview of his future career and equipping him with essential skills.

“This experience has been more than beneficial to me," he reflected. Having a mentor has been particularly impactful, as she provides valuable feedback and guidance that helps refine his teaching abilities. The mentorship has given Liam the opportunity to hone his skills and gain insights that extend beyond the traditional academic setting.

Among the many meaningful moments he has encountered, one stands out. “I was administering a test that I had made for my unit I had taught to my students. As I saw the students slowly complete the test and turn it in, I started looking at their answers and responses that they wrote. I was so proud of them.” Seeing students perform well and apply what they learned in class is an incredibly rewarding experience. “They had remembered what we talked about.” That moment reinforced his passion for teaching and the impact he could have on students’ learning.

The financial support Liam has received through the applied learning fund has also played a crucial role in his experience. “While working during the applied learning experience is possible, it is extremely difficult. I originally did this but then when I received a salary from the applied learning fund I was extremely thankful. It meant that I could focus more on being a teacher in this experience.” Balancing the full workload of a teacher with college studies is challenging, and the financial support allowed him to commit fully to his role. “I do not think that it would have been as prepared and been able to give my all without it.” The opportunity to receive financial support has made a significant difference, and he hopes that future students in the program will continue to benefit from it.

Liam's journey through applied learning has solidified his dedication to education. The hands-on experience, the mentorship, and the support have all played vital roles in preparing him for his future as a teacher. With a passion for shaping young minds and a long-term goal of becoming a principal, his time in the classroom is just the beginning of a fulfilling career in education.

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Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.

For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita State campus.