Jillian Chamberlin, Class of ’25

Jillian transformed her passion for reading and learning into a fulfilling path as an English major in Stony Brook’s Teacher’s Education and BA/MA Programs. Now gaining hands-on-experience as a substitute teacher during her fieldwork observations, Jillian uses the skills she has learned at SBU to inspire and educate the next generation of learners. 

What made you pursue English as a major? What’s the most fulfilling part of your major?

I originally came to SBU as a Biology major because Stony Brook is a heavily STEM-based school, but in the back of my mind, I knew that I wanted to do English. I’ve always loved reading, especially with my mom, and I always had in mind that I wanted to be a teacher because of my love for learning. I switched my major halfway through my first semester, and I became so much happier because I started taking English and creative writing courses. 

What led you to pursue both the Teachers Education Program and the BA/MA Program? How did you hear about them?

Adding the BA/MA program on top of the Teachers Education Program allows me to complete my education in five years instead of six years because you are getting your Bachelors and Masters degrees together rather than getting them one at a time. It saves time, it saves money, and in my experience, not overwhelming. I’ve really enjoyed my graduate classes so far.

What has been the most fun/interesting thing you’ve learned from your Programs? Is there a class that stands out?

The first class you take as an English major is EGL 204, and I took it with Professor Scheckel. That class really stood out to me as one of my favorite classes, not only because she was an amazing professor, but I got to really dive deep into literature. In high school, I didn’t get to do that as much as I would have liked, so it was great to truly learn how to write and effectively learn literature. My favorite Graduate course I’ve taken was the Young Adult Literature class. The professor was Joshua Cabat, and it was such a fun experience to read YA literature and apply it to the context of teaching. 

Have you done your student observation or student teaching yet? If so, tell me about that experience.

Last semester, I completed fifty hours of observation in a middle school and this semester, I am doing fieldwork observations, so I am working as a substitute teacher in another school district. I really enjoyed my observations and I even got the chance to observe at my old middle school in Miller Place. I was a little nervous at first because looking at a classroom in the eyes of a teacher is a completely new experience, but getting to know the kids and learning new skills was amazing. This semester has also been different now that I am a substitute teacher and I’m taking on a more active role. I’ve had great interactions with students and the school environment has been welcoming. I’ve only done a few days so far, but I can’t wait to substitute more.

What advice would you give to other students who wish to join either the Teacher’s Education Program or the BA/MA Program?

Definitely find out what classes you need to take and when, especially with the BA/MA Program because you have to replace some of your undergraduate courses with graduate courses. Meet with an advisor and plan it out as much as you can. I’d also say to go into it with an open mind because I know a lot of people are terrified of teaching because of the new environment, but you really do get a lot of support from the professors and fellow students.