Emma Banger says her decision to attend UConn was essentially a whim – but what a fortunate whim that’s turned out to be. Seizing the opportunities offered by UConn, Emma has been a member of the UConn Dance Team, a fundraiser for charitable causes, involved in Greek life – oh, and by the way: she’s an outstanding student who’s fulfilling her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. Students following in her footsteps would do well to emulate her example of commitment, dedication, and passion – and to take a chance on a whim once in a while.
Why did you choose UConn?
I actually chose UConn on a whim. I was drawn to the balance of school spirit, student involvement, and academic rigor of a few schools. I got down to a couple of schools that were pretty similar, and I decided to go with UConn, which ended up being the best decision I made for myself.
What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?
I am majoring in Special Education with a concentration in Mathematics. I knew since I was about 5 years old that I wanted to become a teacher just like my great-aunt and, to my luck, it came naturally to me. My plan was always to do elementary education, but growing up in Special Education made me realize how my experiences can turn me into the advocate my own students need. As I go through the Special Education program in Neag, I see more and more everyday how this career was truly meant for me.
Did you have a favorite professor or class?
In my four years, my favorite professor (who also happens to be my advisor) is Tracy Sinclair. She was my seminar professor during my student teaching semester, and she provided me with the best support I could’ve asked for. This class took a load off my shoulders with the consistent teamwork and support I received from my peers and Tracy. As my college years come to an end, I appreciate Tracy for everything she’s done to help me get to where I am today.
What activities were you involved in as a student?
As a student, I was a member of the UConn Dance Team and Alpha Epsilon Phi. I was fortunate enough to travel for March Madness for two years and dance at UConn football and basketball games, which was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I was also involved in fundraising for AEPhi’s philanthropies with Sharsheret, a Jewish Breast Cancer Organization and EGPAF, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation.
What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?
The one thing that surprised me about UConn is how much I’d grow to love it and how it really became my second home. Going to school far away from home was scary and I never expected for my four years at UConn to turn out as amazing as they did.
What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?
After graduation and getting a master’s degree next year, I plan to begin teaching in my own classroom with students that have learning disabilities. My hope is to provide my students with the advocacy and support I received growing up to prepare them for independence and success.
How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?
UConn has taught me to take advantage of every opportunity I have to learn and grow more, whether that be joining any organization or taking chances in any aspect of life. Doing this has resulted in some of the greatest parts of my life that I will always carry with me. Most importantly, it taught me to believe in myself. One meeting with Dominique Battle-Lawson single-handedly changed the course of my life and I better myself because of it every day.
Any advice for incoming students?
Don’t put so much pressure on yourself. College is one of the last opportunities you have to be a kid before you have to adult. Do the best you can, but also give yourself some credit because even though it may feel like you’re not doing 100% all the time, doing the best you can is all anyone can ask for. And while people may say college is supposed to be the best four years of your life, I don’t think that’s entirely true. I think college is just an amazing beginning to the rest of your life and the rest that follows will blossom to be just as exhilarating. You’re going to figure everything out in the end, and it all works out.
What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?
Get involved! Between HuskyTHON, student activities, Greek Life, and even a job, there is so much to do at UConn. It’s a big campus and creating some familiarity can really make a huge difference to your experience. And even if you don’t find yourself being a huge sports fan, you should go to at least one men’s and women’s basketball game. Going to games in the Basketball Capital of the World is truly such a unique experience and you should definitely go at least once!
What will always make you think of UConn?
Seeing a husky! One of my favorite parts about games or even just walking around campus was seeing the mascot. And I can’t forget about March Madness. Our teams have come so far in the past few years and getting to watch how they continue to strive is something that makes me proud to be a UConn alumna.
