Western New England University's Professor of Education, Ray Ostendorf, continues to foster connections between alumni and current student teachers through his annual fall seminar series. This initiative brings real-world perspectives and professional guidance directly to aspiring educators.
The final of three guest speaker seminars this semester featured a discussion with Peter Wunderlich, '22, a WNE Secondary Education and History alumnus who teaches 8th grade social students at Baird Middle School in Ludlow, MA. Wunderlich offered a firsthand account of transitioning from student teaching to leading a classroom. Andre Dias from the Delbridge Career Center also spoke to students, providing invaluable advice on the teacher job search and interview process.
“These seminars are about more than just preparing for the next step,” said Ostendorf. “They’re a chance for our future teachers to see the realities of the profession, build connections with alumni who’ve been in their shoes, and leave with practical strategies and inspiration to guide them into their careers.”
These events underscore the importance of bridging theory and practice, giving student teachers the tools, confidence, and networks needed to succeed in their future careers. Aspiring educators benefit from these interactions, as they not only learn practical strategies but also gain inspiration from the journeys of alumni who once stood in their shoes.
For students pursuing teaching careers, initiatives like this highlight WNE's commitment to preparing educators who are ready to excel in the classroom and beyond.
