Senior Spotlight Karlie Heaberlin

As you approach graduation, share your plans and how your time at FSC has influenced them.

Through my field studies and clinical experiences with FSC, I’ve learned that lower elementary is definitely where I would like to teach. After graduation I hope to find a teaching position somewhere where I will be able to put everything I’ve learned into use.

How has Florida Southern College influenced your decision to become a teacher?

When I originally came into FSC as a freshman, I actually wasn’t an elementary education major. However, after meeting both professors and students from the school of education I had a feeling that it was the place for me. All of my early opportunities to work in a classroom solidified this idea for me, as I was able to get hands-on experience right away. I’ve found a love for creating activities and lessons and have already begun making materials for my future classroom. Most of all, FSC gave me the opportunity to witness my absolute favorite part of teaching; watching the moment an idea clicks in a student's mind. It is such a good feeling to see them be so proud of themselves, which is what showed me teaching is the career path for me.

What key lessons have you learned through your internship opportunities and time in the classroom?

Allow everything you do to become a learning opportunity. Whether it's a perfectly scored assignment or your first bombed exam, allow yourself to learn from it. When you stop trying to learn and grow you become stunted where you are. My internship opportunities have shown me that no matter how prepared I think I am, there is always something more to learn. Whether that's how to improve my lesson plan or to meet a student where they are, there is always room to grow. In the words of one of my professors, “No matter how much you glow, you'll always have room to grow”.

You've been actively involved on campus. How have your organizational affiliations enriched your FSC experience?

I’ve had the opportunity to build relationships with so many amazing people that I wouldn’t have met without being involved on campus. Whether from clubs, honor societies, or even my campus jobs; I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and working with so many unique people. It really helps prepare you for post college life where you’ll be working with diverse groups of people!

What will you miss the most about your time at FSC?

I think I'll miss the people the most, because I’ve met some of my best friends in the world here. As excited as I am to see all the amazing things they’ll do, it saddens me to know that I’ll no longer be in the bedroom next door while it happens.

If you could give advice to your first-year self, what would it be?

Don’t sweat the small stuff and be proud of yourself. Mistakes are inevitable and as long as you are doing your best, there will always be something to be proud of.

Any final thoughts or memories you'd like to share about your time at FSC?

Despite the ups and downs, these last couple of years have been the best of my life. I will cherish every laugh, tear, and late night snack run for the rest of my life and hope the same for everyone else who attends FSC.