Hello! My name is Derek Coker, and I am a sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown studying Early Childhood Education. This summer, I have the exciting opportunity to participate in Pitt’s Plus3 Program in the United Kingdom. I am incredibly grateful for this experience and look forward to the personal and professional growth it will bring.

During my time at Pitt–Johnstown, I have become actively involved on campus through the Education Club and the Student Pennsylvania State Education Association (SPSEA). These organizations have allowed me to connect with other future educators, develop leadership skills, and deepen my understanding of the field of education. Being part of these groups has strengthened my passion for teaching and has encouraged me to think more critically about the role educators play in shaping young learners.

Outside of academics, I enjoy staying involved in my community. I volunteer with the children’s ministry and worship team at my church, which has been a meaningful way for me to work with children in a supportive and engaging environment. These experiences have reinforced my desire to become a teacher and have helped me build patience, creativity, and strong communication skills. In my free time, I also enjoy baking different types of bread and listening to music. Baking, in particular, has become a relaxing and rewarding hobby that allows me to express creativity and unwind from the demands of school.

Looking ahead, my goal is to become an elementary school teacher and eventually pursue a Master’s degree in Education. I am passionate about creating a positive and inclusive classroom environment where all students feel supported and encouraged to succeed. I hope to make a lasting impact not only on my students’ academic development but also on their confidence and personal growth.

I chose to apply to the Plus3 Program because I wanted the opportunity to learn about educational systems beyond the United States. Experiencing education in a different country will allow me to compare teaching methods, classroom structures, and student engagement strategies. I am especially interested in seeing how schools in the United Kingdom approach early childhood education and how cultural differences influence the learning environment.

In addition to the academic aspects of the program, I am excited to experience a new culture. From exploring historic cities to trying new foods and meeting people from different backgrounds, I believe this experience will broaden my perspective in many ways. Stepping outside of my comfort zone is something I value, and I see this as an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.

Ultimately, I hope to bring back the knowledge and insights I gain from this program and apply them in my future classroom. I want to be an educator who is adaptable, culturally aware, and committed to continuous learning. By understanding different approaches to education, I believe I can better advocate for positive change in my local community and contribute to improving the educational experiences of my future students.

I am excited to begin this journey and look forward to all the learning experiences ahead.