Matt Hoekstra

Transition to Teaching

Biography

I completed the Transition to Teaching program from Taylor University in June 2021. Since then, I have taught one year in third grade in a public school, and now I am a resource teacher for a private school.

What were some of your most valuable experiences at Taylor?

I enjoyed being able to physically be in an elementary classroom for most of my classes, to see what I study come alive.

How did your classes or interactions with professors at Taylor impact your growth?

The Taylor professors were vital to keep me moving forward on the road to become an elementary teacher. I appreciated my interactions with them.

How can Taylor graduates use their unique Taylor education and its liberal arts foundational core as an asset in your discipline?

The Taylor education team has always been helpful after I graduated. Professors are available to talk about problems, being encouraging both then and now.

What advice or encouragement could you provide for Taylor students in your vocational discipline?

Breathe. It is okay to run into problems during your journey. Please do not keep your head down and be frustrated. Ask for help! People want to see you succeed.