Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2025 graduating students over the coming days.

Major: BS, History Education
Hometown: New Haven, Connecticut

Q: Why did you choose UConn? 

A: As a New Haven resident, I was given a New Haven Promise scholarship, which helped cover tuition. With this scholarship and my financial aid, I was able to attend this university for little to no cost. Besides the financials, the Neag School of Education is ranked among the top public graduate schools of education. I knew I wanted to attend an education program that could help me excel, and I wanted to stay close to home to be a call away from my younger sisters. Having UConn as an option helps me achieve this. I was accepted into the Neag School and given the resources to make a difference in the classroom.

Q: What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?

A: The major I decided on is secondary history/social studies. In my K-12 schooling, there weren’t many lessons that shed light on historical figures that focused on people of color. In high school, it affected me the most. I was being taught history that was either watered down or whitewashed. I was seated in the classroom, learning the ins and outs of what America has been through and the historical figures that left a legacy. However, the same energy was not being precipitated for the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community. If this isn’t done in the classroom, it is also shown in the career field. Meaning this field is white male-dominated. Not only will I show the physical, which would be a Latina history teacher, but I will also show it in my classroom/lesson plans. This is why I was drawn to this major.

Q: Did you have a favorite professor or class?

A: My favorite class is EDCI 3100/W — Multicultural Education, Equity, and Social Justice. In this class, I was not only with my peers but also able to expand my interest in social justice and incorporate it into my lesson plans. Having a space to touch on “uncomfortable conversations” not only helped my peers have a better understanding but also prepared them for what was to come.

Q: What activities were you involved in as a student?

A: Here at UConn, I was involved in Leadership in Diversity (LID), as well as UConn Bound Day, teacher critical shortages panel and attended/spoke on a panel at a UConn-hosted Connecticut Association for Latinos in Higher Education (CALAHE) conference. Here, I and four other female students spoke on how Latinos/Latinas at UConn especially need to receive more support. LID is where I felt like I could belong in education, especially being a Latina in a white male-dominated field. Each activity not only got my name in the door but also contributed to my future students.

Q: What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

A: One thing that surprised me about UConn was the staff at the Neag School. I hear from my peers that they struggle to find a staff member who can help them with anything. Here at the Neag School, the staff will ensure you can finish the program even if there are obstacles. Dr. Quiñones and Anna Roberts ensure students have a feasible placement. Ann Traynor gives us step-by-step instructions on how to pass our Praxis. Alyssa Dunn oversees the teacher education program and prepares us for excellence. Last but not least, advisors Dominique and Sydnee make sure students are enrolled in the correct classes. But what all have in common is holding a space for students to express themselves.

Q: What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?  

A: After receiving my degree, I will be interning at Yale University Art Gallery. I will work on a summer enrichment series alongside the Yale British Art Gallery and the Yale Library. I will organize meetings and field trips and work closely with New Haven Promise scholars. And, of course, I will study for Praxis in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., and Chicago. Once I receive my master’s, I will hopefully start my career in either the New Haven or Norwalk school districts.

Q: How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

A: Not only have I been able to receive my degree here, but the Neag School especially has prepared me how to be an educator. With countless assignments and lesson plans, I am ready to show others my teaching skills and that this career was made for me. Thankfully, by gaining my bachelor’s and master’s within five years, I can be set up well financially. UConn gave me the blueprint, but it will now be my turn to build.

With countless assignments and lesson plans, I am ready to show others my teaching skills and that this career was made for me. — Janelis Cedeño-Negrón

Q: Any advice for incoming students?

A: Being a transfer student from UConn Stamford to UConn Storrs can be a big adjustment. But think of it like this: you are being promoted from junior varsity to varsity, and you will be given even more resources to show off your skills. I know Storrs is a big change, but once you are accepted, UConn Admissions saw how you could belong there. I’m not saying you can visit or do everything here overnight. You have 24 hours in a day; whatever you can do or visit or see within those 24 hours is completely okay, and if something does get completed, you will have a brand new day the following day. You are one person who can accomplish anything little by little.

Q: What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?

A: Attend any and all events that will not only help your future but also help you make connections early on. You are starting your career once you step on any of our regional campuses. But also have fun. There are many clubs or organizations that host events that are open to all. Most importantly, attend a game! All games are free to students. This is where you can really feel what it means to be a UConn Husky.

Q: What will always make you think of UConn?

A: UConn’s pride is what will always make me of UConn. At every game, the Husky Nation shows off its pride, shouting chants. Even someone wearing merch also shows pride. Even looking at a Husky would remind me of Husky pride. Stepping foot on this campus, Husky pride is already embedded into you, but after leaving it will still be there.