MSU President's Column for Traill County Tribune
December 8, 2018
Miranda Petersen looks to make a positive difference as an elementary school teacher
It has been my distinct privilege to meet and get to know many outstanding Mayville State University students during my first several months on campus. These students come from places near and far and have much to contribute on campus, as well as in the community and beyond. One such student is Miranda Petersen, a senior from Mayville, N.D. Miranda is pursuing a major in elementary education and a minor in early childhood education.
Miranda is a fourth-generation Mayville State student and will soon be a fourth-generation graduate, as she intends to graduate this coming May. She says her family and their Mayville State experiences had a big influence on her decision to enroll at MSU, especially after she decided she wanted to become a teacher. She knew that Mayville State was where she needed to be. “Mayville State is ‘The School of Personal Service,’ and I wanted to entrust my education to a place that would also invest in me and help me grow as an individual and future educator.”
Miranda says that many individuals, both Mayville State faculty and staff, have been exceptional role models for her and she appreciates all of them. One faculty member, MSU Associate Professor of Education Dr. Kelli Odden, stands out. “I cannot praise her enough. She is such an intelligent, passionate, and insightful professor. She is also welcoming and understanding, and a lively advocate and mentor. She truly loves Mayville State University and its students. Dr. Odden contributes so much to the Education Department.”
In fact, Dr. Odden teaches Miranda’s favorite class of this semester, Special Needs in an Inclusive Environment. Odden brings knowledge, insight, passion and excitement to class every day. Miranda and her peers are constantly learning from her and they know that the information gained in this class will greatly benefit them in their future careers as teacher.
When Miranda is not in class or studying, she loves to spend time with her family and friends. In addition, she is a member of the Mayville State choir, Alpha Phi Sigma Omicron Chapter honor society, and the Student Education Association. She also has a job working for Mayville State’s Child Development Programs. Many Peter Boe, Jr. Elementary School children have gotten to know and love Miranda through her work with the CHEERS after school program.
In summing up her Mayville State experiences, Miranda had this to say, “Mayville State University has given me so much. I feel I am well-prepared to become an elementary educator. I have had many chances to participate in field classroom observations; and interact and teach in different settings, schools and classrooms. All of these experiences have helped prepare me for student teaching. I have had tremendous opportunities. Mayville State University has given me encouraging mentors, lifelong friendships, and endless memories. I am incredibly thankful for my experiences at Mayville State.”