Ella James knows that her passion has always been education, especially with wanting to teach high school English. As a soon-to-be graduating senior majoring in secondary education at the University of South Carolina Aiken, James says she chose the university because of how close it was to home. "I was only 17 when I graduated from high school and thought 'Let me stay home for a little bit.'" After enrolling at USC Aiken in 2020, she's graduating early this semester on Thursday, Dec. 14.
James said she knew at a young age that she wanted to be a teacher. "I knew from the moment I was a little girl I wanted to help people in any way I could," she said. "I'm very passionate about the work involved that goes into helping kids." James says her teaching philosophy is simple and that's to create a classroom environment where students are comfortable enough to explore their interests. "I want to make sure that they understand the value of their education regardless of if they want to go a four- or two-year college."
Throughout her four years, she's been involved in organizations such as Chancellors Ambassadors, and Pacesetters, and even joined Phi Mu Sorority where she served as the social chair by helping to plan events. "I met a couple of the girls and said I want to be a part of something bigger than myself," she said. "And there's a certain bond that you get when being a part of something like that." She's even extended her talents by working in the writing center and the library. James is currently completing her internship at Aiken High School.
James says what she'll miss the most about USC Aiken is the community, "When getting involved you get attached," she explained. "I love the support system I found in my professors and mentors, who I will still probably contact when I start teaching."
The advice she leaves for future educators is to just try it, especially when so many people are discouraged when it comes to teacher shortages. "For people who are in the School of Education Program, I say don't give up." James says it can be a lot when it comes to lesson planning and behavioral issues. However, one of the most rewarding feelings she says is when students say how inspired they were by their teachers.
USC Aiken will hold December Commencement at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14th, in the university's Convocation Center.
For more information, contact Angela Saxon, Angela.saxon@usca.edu