My name is Joy Carlson and I’m originally from Trafalgar, IN-about an hour south of Indianapolis. I chose Elementary Education because I have a sincere passion for empowering children to discover their own unique voice in a world that often tells them who and what they should be. I chose IU because it has one of the best education schools in the nation and is close to home for me. I would love to become an elementary education teacher and work for a corporation that is caring, resourceful, diverse, and focuses on academics more than sports. I’m interested in this field because I love working with children and feel as though it is an honor to help them grow into young adults. I was a cadet teacher during my senior year of high school with second graders, and it made me realize how much I love working with kids, especially those in elementary school. I try to get to know each child individually and on a personal level so I can provide them with the tools and accommodations they need to succeed. I would love to become an elementary education teacher and work for a corporation that is caring and focuses on school more than sports. I’m interested in this field because I love working with children and would love to be a source in their primary learning. I was a student teacher my senior year of high school with second graders, and it made me realize how much I love working with kids. I try to get to know each child individually and on a personal level so I can provide them with the tools they need to succeed.I've realized many students that struggle just need someone to listen to them, their feelings, and emotions. Even though they are little, they have feelings too and struggle with real, human experiences just as everyone else does. I intend to use my empathy skills to relate to my students and make them feel comfortable to be themselves around me and to try their best, always. I am planning on staying near the area after I graduate and teaching in either Bloomington or the Indy area. I am also on the pathway of getting my certification to teach ENL and would also be interested in pursuing further education to teach grades 6-12 as well. Interests: Historical Fiction | Reading | Family | Animals