University of South Carolina College of Education

Did you know, our students spend more than 700 hours in local classrooms on their journey to become educators? As the home of the nation’s largest professional development schools network, we ensure that our future educators will be prepared to lead in their classrooms and communities. We also set them up for success with CarolinaTIP, our proven induction and retention program that keeps teachers in the classroom at rates of more than 90%. Your gift ensures that we continue to be a national leader teacher preparation! Give now: https://bit.ly/COEG4G

Shea Ferguson's journey into the world of educational psychology began with a simple yet profound question: How can we better prepare teachers to understand the science of learning and development? Through weekly advising meetings with College of Education Professor Molly Dawes, Ferguson was able to hone in on a dissertation topic and learn about a fellowship that would be game changing for her research. Ferguson was recently awarded the Elizabeth Munsterberg Koppitz Fellowship by the American Psychological Foundation. This highly competitive dissertation fellowship is given to only five awardees nationwide. Ferguson is the first-ever recipient at the University of South Carolina. Ferguson shares that this award is a gamechanger for her research. More: https://bit.ly/4l5sJRS

Keighley George (2018, Master of Education in Teaching) grew up in a family of educators. She always knew she would join the profession to make a difference in the lives of others. She wanted her job to be meaningful and purpose driven. Recently, her work was honored when George was presented with the Milken Educator Award, a prestigious national honor hailed as the “Oscar of Teaching,” that recognizes exceptional educators for their dedication to excellence in education and leadership. More: https://bit.ly/4iA5UDI

The countdown is ON! We're less than 2 weeks away from Give 4 Garnet, the University’s biggest day of giving! Mark your calendars for?Wednesday, March 26, just?1 day, 8 hours, and 01 minutes?to make a difference! Whether you're a proud College of Education alum, faculty, staff, parent, student, friend, or supporter, this is YOUR chance to create a lasting impact! Don’t miss out! Donate $50 or more before March 26 to claim your?exclusive, limited-edition Cocky Blocks?as a special thank-you! Only available while supplies last, so act fast to secure yours! Donate now to the College of Education at?https://lnkd.in/eEbSRC8t. #Give4Garnet

Congratulations Hengtao Tang, Ph.D. on being named the recipient of the USC Educational Foundation Research Award for Professional Schools! Hengtao Tang is an associate professor in the College of Education and program coordinator of the Learning Design and Technologies program. Tang’s research is distinguished by its innovative application of self-regulated learning (SRL) theory and advanced learning analytics to enhance online education and STEM-integrative learning environments, especially as related to underrepresented minority (URM) students. His projects, funded by prestigious grants from the NSF and Department of Education, address critical issues such as equity in STEM education and AI literacy. Tang has been published in prestigious journals and has significantly advanced understanding of learner persistence, motivation, and collaborative problem-solving with his publications extensively cited, only further reflecting its impact within the academic community and field. Learn more about these awards: bit.ly/4kEN7ZJ

Natasha Hastings came to the University of South Carolina with dreams of excelling as an athlete. Although her talent eventually would propel her to an NCAA championship, multiple world championships and two Olympic gold medals, her initial start on the Gamecock track and field team was less than stellar. Her body was sound, but she had psychological demons to slay. She now has dedicated her professional life to helping athletes overcome internal battles. “In our very first session, my psychologist asked me what I say to myself when I am on the starting line,” says Hastings. “After reciting a list of negative things, he got really silent. He told me, ‘Natasha, you have lost the race before the gun has gone off.’” Learn more about how Hastings flipped the script: bit.ly/41FZ9L8

Graduate student, Richmond Nti (education administration, Ph.D.), published a blog on NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education titled, “Peer Mentorship: A Lifeline for International Students Navigating Success and Growth.” He shares: Navigating college life can be particularly challenging for international students who must adapt to new academic environments, cultural norms, and social systems. In this landscape, peer mentorship programs offer a powerful means of support. They provide students with the guidance needed for academic success, personal development, and community integration. This article draws from real-world examples, research insights, and best practices to highlight the benefits of peer mentorship programs, focusing on how these initiatives impact the academic and personal growth of international college students. ?? Weekend reading: https://bit.ly/4kkF4Ba

Hailey Smith is the Undergraduate Child Development Research Assistant in the Child Development Research Center. She shared some highlights from her work and why it is important for undergraduate students to get involved. "As undergraduate students—especially those pursuing STEM degrees—we commonly hear about the value of research involvement. It's often highlighted as a way to enhance our resumes, gain entry into competitive graduate programs, and foster valuable learning experiences. However, despite the multitude of research labs at the University of South Carolina, securing a research position—particularly one that aligns with your interests—can feel like an uphill battle. The process can be intimidating; from sending initial emails to meeting with faculty, I’ve realized the path isn’t always easy, but persistence and curiosity make a significant difference. By sharing my journey, I hope to motivate others to follow what excites them, even if it leads to unexpected areas of interest." More: https://bit.ly/4bekxu5

Reminder! Applications are due March 15 for the following programs: ?? Teaching, M.Ed. ?? Educational Psychology and Research, M.Ed. ?? Learning Design and Technologies, M.Ed. ?? Language and Literacy, M.Ed. ?? Adapted Physical Education, M.S. ?? Coaching Education, M.S. ?? Education Administration, Ed.S. ?? Education Administration, M.Ed. ?? Special Education, M.Ed. ?? Higher Education & Student Affairs, M.Ed. (Higher Education Leadership Concentration, Online) Apply here: https://bit.ly/4biQcKU

Let’s listen in on a special message from Dean Thomas Hodges! Join us at the Zone for our annual Champions of Education Gala on March 27. Tickets are available now, and today is the last day for award nominations. The link in our bio shares more information, including ticket sales. We will be celebrating soon!