Jessup Elementary School / Student Teacher Internship

Jessup Elementary School

Internship Profile

Position Title: Student Teacher
Student Name: Maria Cirillo
Major: Early Childhood Education
Type of Internship: Education / Teaching / Training
City, State: Jessup, MD
Semester: Spring
Hours:  5-10 hours per week
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid

How did you find this internship?

This position was a placement as part of the education program. 

What advice on the internship application process would you give to another TU student interested in this internship?

I suggest being open to different learning experiences, even if it is out of your comfort zone. You never know if you are going to enjoy something unless you try! For me, it was to try a new grade level, which was kindergarten, and I ended up loving it!

What did you do as an intern at this organization?

I was a student teacher and I was in a kindergarten classroom with the main mentor. On a weekly basis, I helped with teaching small groups and one-on-one with students. I helped out with grading and checking work as well as creating copies and cutting out materials for future lessons. As I progressed into the year a little more I had the opportunity to learn more about the curriculum and help my mentor write the lessons she was teaching. Eventually, I had the chance to write the lessons and teach whole group with her class. This was during teach week where I taught everyday for each one of her lessons. 

What were the challenges you faced in your internship?

One struggle I had during the internship was keeping my confidence high. I would get so nervous and anxious before teaching a whole group lesson. One thing I would tell myself is if I mess up in front of the students to just make my mistake be known! It helps me to reflect on what I said or did, and it is also funny for the students to see that everyone makes mistakes!

If another student at TU was interested in your internship next year, what skills would you recommend they develop in the coming semesters to prepare?

For being a student teacher, my biggest skill I used was classroom management. Without it, students will not respect you and will walk all over you. Also, being "silly" is important; you can't be afraid to make a fool out of yourself in front of your students. Another skill that is important is time management, because when you are student teaching you can't procrastinate lessons. 

About the organization

Jessup Elementary School

Learn more about Jessup Elementary School.