Olivia Watson always knew she wanted to be a teacher and loved the marketing classes she took in high school. Majoring in Career and Technical Education combines both of these passions.

The Appalachian State University student wants to teach high school marketing classes after she graduates.   

“There are not many schools that offer a major in business and marketing education, and Appalachian has an outstanding teacher education program,” she said.

All teacher education candidates at Appalachian are involved in early field experiences at the beginning of their program. These focus on specific teaching and learning concepts and seek to support young learners in a variety of ways and in various contexts.
“I’ve already put into practice the skills I’ve learned so far and it’s reassuring to know what I’m learning is beneficial,” she said.

As a way to get involved on campus, Watson applied for and was accepted to ACES (Appalachian Community of Education Scholars) on campus. ACES is one of many learning communities on Appalachian’s campus and provides a support network for future educators interested in leadership and service.

“Becoming a member of ACES my freshman year has provided me with beneficial experiences that I would not have had otherwise,” she said.