Through her time at Concordia, Lucy has grown as a leader and mentor.
Lucy Lopez always knew she wanted to make an impact on students’ lives, but it wasn’t until she found Concordia University Wisconsin’s School of Education that she felt truly supported in her journey to becoming a teacher. Now, as a Career Readiness Seminar instructor at Case High School in Racine, WI, she reflects on how Concordia prepared her for her role in shaping young minds and guiding students toward their futures.
The Path to Teaching
For Lucy, the inspiration to pursue education came from witnessing the profound effect teachers have on their students. “My daily inspiration is seeing how a teacher can impact the lives of many students,” she shares. “I believe in myself and offer my knowledge with dedication, patience, and empathy, making teaching a unique experience where students believe in themselves and prepare for adult life.”
Her time at Concordia provided her with the professional preparation she needed, including hands-on clinical experiences and student teaching opportunities. Lucy was part of Concordia’s Master of Science in Education – Teaching and Learning with Secondary Education licensure program. The program’s structure and coursework, combined with Concordia’s connections within the Racine school district, proved invaluable in helping her secure a job upon completing her program.
A University That Cares
Lucy’s decision to choose Concordia was deeply influenced by the level of care and attention she received. “I had knocked on several doors before, and while I received information, I never felt truly supported,” she recalls. “The support I received from the Concordia staff was fabulous. I always had the answer to my questions and the resolution to my problems easily and quickly. I never felt alone throughout the entire process.”
That support extended beyond academics. Concordia’s mission to educate the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—resonated deeply with Lucy. “If we are not well, we cannot offer something good to the students. First, we must be well ourselves before we can offer what we are to others,” she emphasizes.
The Most Rewarding Moments
During her time in Concordia’s School of Education, Lucy discovered what kind of teacher she wanted to be. One of her most memorable experiences was receiving guidance from a professor who encouraged students to not only be teachers but also mentors. “Being able to share experiences with my teachers and classmates was incredible,” she says. “When you share how you teach and listen to how others do it, you can create your unique way of doing things.”
Influences and Support
Reflecting on her coursework, Lucy found the greatest influence in courses that emphasized empathy and the importance of understanding students’ needs. “The courses that talked about empathy and advised us on how we can be better teachers influenced me the most.”
She is especially grateful to Concordia staff members Jessica Frank and Sarah Mayer. “Their support made my experience go to another level. They are so kind and professional. Their help was fundamental in helping me stop worrying about many things and focus on my tasks.”
Bringing Concordia’s Lessons into the Classroom
Now, as a teacher, Lucy incorporates many of the strategies she learned at Concordia into her own classroom. “One of the best strategies is planning my lessons. Formalizing lesson plans has made my teaching easier. Being organized allows me to implement a plan B if necessary,” she explains. She also integrates technology to create engaging lessons, a skill she developed during her teacher preparation program.
Her advice to future Concordia students? Be flexible and recognize that each student is unique. “You should know how to speak to each one in their own language. Also, be willing to work as a team with your peers to create a better work environment—and therefore a better space for the students.”
A Leader and a Mentor
Through her time at Concordia, Lucy has grown as a leader and mentor. “I believe that I can do incredible things for and with the students. I feel more focused, and I solve problems faster. I am a more prepared person, and I listen more to the students. As a result, I can more easily develop strategies to support their learning.”
Her faith has also been a guiding force in her journey as an educator. “I always put my plans before God and entrust myself to Him. Teaching is a privilege, and it’s amazing to see how students teach me more each day. Being a teacher is one of the most beautiful jobs I have ever had; teaching is a gift from God.”
Conclusion
Lucy Lopez’s story is a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and the right support system. Through Concordia University Wisconsin, she found not only the education she needed but also a community that believed in her potential. Now, she’s paying it forward—helping students in Racine find their own paths, just as she found hers.
Want in?
Through CUW’s online Master of Science in Education—Teaching and Learning – Secondary Education Initial Licensure you can gain your teaching license in secondary education to teach in specific content areas of a school’s curriculum. Enhance your teaching abilities, master classroom management techniques, and develop learning strategies to effectively teach in specialized subjects of education. Cultivate the confidence and expertise needed to establish an engaging and dynamic learning environment for students ranging from 4th to 12th grades. This flexible online program is designed for individuals currently in the field of education or those aspiring to embark on a rewarding career in teaching.