Anna Densmore teaches biology at Washington High School in Washington, North Carolina. She chose Appalachian after researching several schools for their teaching and science programs, she said.

What do you love best about the work you do?
The best part of my job is working with students and seeing their successes throughout the semester. Plus, my goal is to show students how amazing the study of life can be, and they enjoy seeing what they learn in my class applied to their own personal life.

What aspects of your Appalachian education best prepared you for your career?
Appalachian prepared me for my career in teaching by developing my understanding of content and teaching methods. I was given the opportunity in student teaching to develop and apply what I learned in a live classroom. The professors and mentors I met at Appalachian are the reason why I love teaching and the reason why I have experienced success in my career.

Why should today’s students interested in teaching biology choose Appalachian?
The tools and support given to me at Appalachian are the reason why I have been successful as a first-year teacher. Now, that does not mean obtaining a Secondary Biology degree was easy – it was a very challenging degree, but I know I received the best education for my career.

I believe future students would benefit by attending Appalachian State University because students will receive real support from professors and mentors who really do care about an individual’s success, which will enable students to be prepared for their career in teaching biology. 

Is there anything else you’d like to say about this degree program or your Appalachian experience in general?
I enjoyed my time and experiences at Appalachian and I have no regret in my decision to receive my degree from Appalachian State University. I encourage future science teachers to attend because they will receive and develop the training needed to be successful in their own teaching careers.