Thomas Edge's Senior Reflection

As my time at Centenary University is coming to an end, I have found myself reflecting on the incredible four-year journey that has shaped me into the person I am today. From my experiences in the classroom to my time on the soccer field, Centenary has provided me with endless opportunities to grow, learn, and prepare for my future.

A Pathway to My Passion

The education program at Centenary has been the foundation of my academic journey. When I first decided I wanted to become a teacher, I knew I wanted to make a difference in students' lives, but I had no idea how much this program would prepare me. The variety of courses has given me strong knowledge in teaching theories, lesson planning, and classroom management. 

My favorite assignments were those that I could use in my own classroom one day, as they gave me practical tools and strategies that I could immediately apply to my teaching craft. More importantly, the hands-on experiences, such as student teaching, allowed me to apply what I learned in a real-world setting.

My time as a student teacher at Lenape Valley Regional High School has been one of the most rewarding experiences of not only my college career, but my life. Teaching in both a mainstream English classroom and a Special Education setting has broadened my perspective and really cemented my passion for education. 

One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is the importance of building positive relationships with students. Establishing trust has allowed me to create a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable expressing themselves and taking risks. However, my success as a teacher would not be possible without the support and mentorship from my professors and cooperating teachers. They have all been invaluable in shaping my teaching philosophy and have more than prepared me for my future in education.

Lessons From the Pitch

Beyond the classroom, Centenary University also gave me the chance to continue my love for soccer. Being part of a collegiate soccer team has been more than just playing a sport. It was about teamwork, discipline, and resilience. As team captain, I had the opportunity to lead and support my teammates, learning many lessons, including the importance of effective communication and accountability. 

I also met many different types of people, each with their own backgrounds and perspectives, which helped me grow both as a player and as a person. The friendships I made and the challenges we faced together have all contributed to my personal growth in so many ways. Through both success and failure, I have learned invaluable lessons that I will carry with me into my life after graduation.

The Power of Storytelling

I’ll never forget the first class of my junior year, sitting in the back of the room, nervous about what the semester would bring. Professor Zatta stood in front of us and casually mentioned that one of her goals for the year was to revive the student newspaper. 

As someone who had been part of a student newspaper before coming to Centenary, this immediately caught my attention. It was a moment that sparked something in me, an idea that journalism could still have a strong presence at this university.

Once we learned more about the plan, I immediately became passionate about the revival of the student newspaper. This revival became not just a project, but a chance to contribute to something that would connect the Cyclone community. 

Writing for the student paper allowed me to develop my communication skills, explore different perspectives, and engage with the campus in ways I had not imagined. Covering campus events, interviewing faculty and students, and sharing stories that mattered has deepened my understanding of the power of storytelling. 

The Future Awaits

As I prepare to graduate and step into the next chapter of my life, I am forever grateful for everything Centenary University has given me. The education program has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to be an effective educator, soccer has taught me resilience and teamwork, and journalism has given me a voice to share important stories. 

While leaving this chapter behind is bittersweet, I know that the lessons and experiences from Centenary will guide me as I embark on my teaching career.

Centenary has been more than just a school. It has been a place of growth and a launchpad for my dreams. To my professors, coaches, classmates, and teammates, thank you for shaping my journey. To my fellow graduates, as we step into the real world, let’s carry forward the knowledge and memories that will define our time at Centenary University.