Alumni Feature
Charlotte Evensen
Teacher
Warren High School
Downey, Calif.
There is a spiritual foundation that winds itself through every lecture, every assignment, and every practicum required at Biola. This foundation on Christ, on teaching as a calling and a service to God – this very passionate clarity of mission is why I chose Biola over another academic institution.
Biola's M.A.Ed. program required me to connect the work, academic and social dots of my life to its spiritual source – God. What I learn and practice is not merely about me, but it is about God's call on my life. This is an ongoing and significant lesson that I am still learning.
While completing my teaching credential at Biola, I was prepared both theoretically and practically. Theoretically, my professors exposed me to the different philosophies and ideologies found within education. Practically, I was required to be in the classroom observing students and teachers. Eventually, I, too, practiced teaching. I would say that my professors' support, encouragement, understanding – even while they required a great deal of work – was beneficial.
Through Biola's School of Education, I have learned to become disciplined, detailed, and detached from the politics that can surround the day-to-day mundanity of work. I think more deeply and seek a broader scope of possibility for my students. This is reflected in my output at work and in my attitude with my students.