Hailey Goldberg

“I chose Carthage for reasons that aligned with my educational priorities. The small class sizes were a significant factor in my decision as the environment facilitates meaningful connections with professors and creates opportunities for personalized learning experiences. The College’s community fosters a collaborative atmosphere where faculty, staff, and fellow students are committed to mutual success rather than competitive advancement. The support systems available at Carthage are also impressive with its extensive academic resources, including tutoring services, writing assistance, and academic advising. The campus location on Lake Michigan provides an inspiring setting for learning. Additionally, various extracurricular activities and organizations offer balanced opportunities for professional development and social engagement outside the classroom. Carthage perfectly balances academic rigor and personal growth opportunities. Carthage represents the ideal environment for me to develop both professionally and personally.”

“The faculty at Carthage have been the defining element of my educational experience. The professors in my academic department demonstrate exceptional dedication to teaching excellence and student development. What sets these educators apart is their genuine investment in student success while understanding the demands of our full lives beyond academics. The opportunity to take multiple courses with the same professors has been particularly valuable, allowing for the development of meaningful academic relationships. These connections provide continuity in my learning journey and personalized guidance that enhances my educational outcomes. The faculty commitment extends beyond classroom instruction to include mentorship that supports academic achievement and personal growth, creating a truly comprehensive college experience.”

“I have loved all my education courses at Carthage, but my favorite class so far has definitely been Emergent Literacy Methods with Professor Jacqueline Witter-Easley. This course combines engaging instructional approaches with substantive content directly applicable to classroom teaching. The knowledge gained provides practical methodologies that will inform my future educational practice. Prof. Easley’s expertise in the field and commitment to student success enhance the course’s effectiveness. Her willingness to provide additional support and guidance outside scheduled class sessions demonstrates exceptional dedication to student development. This comprehensive course content and outstanding instruction create an optimal learning environment for professional preparation.”

“I am a part of a few clubs and organizations. I am the secretary for the Association of Carthage Education Students. I’m also a part of Best Buddies, the Special Olympics, and the Jewish Student Union, and I have done intramural volleyball. I also work as an orientation leader in the fall.”

“I was fortunate enough to take a J-Term trip in 2024 to Spain. We went to Madrid for a week and Valencia for two weeks.”

“I had an on-campus job teaching swim lessons. While this role wasn’t directly related to my major, I believe any experience working with children is valuable. Teaching swim lessons allowed me to develop essential skills in communication, patience, and adaptability, which are crucial when working with kids. In addition to my on-campus experience, I worked off campus at Kids Castle After School Care, where I served as a lead teacher. This experience deepened my understanding of child development and enhanced my leadership skills as I oversaw a team of other teachers and collaborated with parents to support the children’s growth.”

“My career goal is to secure a position in a sixth-grade classroom, likely in Illinois, within a supportive school district. I am eager to create an engaging and inclusive learning environment where all students feel valued and empowered to reach their full potential. I am particularly interested in incorporating innovative teaching strategies that cater to diverse learning styles fostering academic growth, and social and emotional development. Building strong relationships with my students and their families is essential for creating a positive classroom culture. Additionally, I aim to collaborate with fellow educators to share best practices and continuously improve my instructional methods. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to a school community that prioritizes student success and teacher professional development.”

“My favorite Carthage moments and memories have been as an orientation leader, taking my education classes, and connecting with the incredible people here. Serving as an orientation leader allows me to welcome new students and help them transition into college, creating lasting friendships and unforgettable experiences. My education classes have been particularly impactful, providing me with hands-on learning opportunities that have sharpened my teaching skills. I have met some of my best friends in these education classes, and I have met many amazing individuals at Carthage — professors, classmates, and mentors — who have inspired me and shaped my journey. The supportive community at Carthage has fostered collaboration and growth, making every moment memorable. I truly cherish the relationships I’ve built and the lessons I’ve learned, which will stay with me long after graduation.”

“Get involved and talk to people in your classes! I have met some of my best friends in my classes or organizations I have joined, so don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and be outgoing!”

“The biggest surprise is how much I enjoy the environment of a small school. I transferred to Carthage after my freshman year from a college with around 40,000 students in Florida. At the other college, I quickly realized I was not reaching my full potential in such a large environment. At Carthage, I found a nurturing community where I can thrive academically and socially. The smaller class sizes have allowed for more personalized attention from my professors, fostering meaningful relationships and deeper discussions in the classroom. This supportive environment has encouraged me to take risks, engage more actively, and truly explore my interests. Carthage has provided me with the ideal balance of challenge and support, ultimately helping me grow both as a student and individual.”