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My name is Jonathan Gomez, and I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education/Special Education through Towson University at ºÚÁÏÉçÇø (USG).

I am a returning college student, but my path here wasn’t a straight one. Before enrolling in my education program, I studied criminal justice at Montgomery College (MC) and later at the University of Maryland, College Park. Criminal justice never felt like the right fit for me, and I was eventually academically dismissed. I didn’t go back to school right away, but during that time, I discovered my true passion for teaching while working as a martial arts instructor. For 10 years, I taught Taekwondo and Muay Thai, and I loved being part of my students’ journeys as they reached their goals. That experience showed me that teaching was what I was meant to do.

When I returned to MC, I first pursued physical education because it felt similar to teaching martial arts. But it still didn’t feel quite right. What I did know for sure was that I wanted to be a teacher. I enrolled in an Education 101 class, which I enjoyed and excelled in, and soon after, I switched into the Elementary Education/Special Education Program. Along the way, I met two professors who had a huge impact on me. Professor Poese, my advisor, helped guide me, and Professor Marroquin, my mentor, encouraged me to apply to the Towson program ºÚÁÏÉçÇø. He was a graduate himself, so I trusted his advice. At the next MC college fair, I spoke directly with a Towson program director, gathered all the information I needed, and set my sights on applying.

I was accepted to Towson for Fall 2024, and I couldn’t have been more excited. Towson is known for having one of the best education programs in the country, and being part of it means I get to intern in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) thanks to their strong partnership. I’m also learning from professors who work or have worked in MCPS and networking, which will help me when it’s time to apply for teaching positions. Another benefit is the convenience of studying ºÚÁÏÉçÇø — just a 25-minute drive from home, at a much lower cost than attending a main campus or another four-year institution.

At USG, Towson’s education program focuses on preparing you to become a great teacher. In our junior year, we start teaching lessons in classrooms, and by senior year, we take over for a teacher and lead a class. This is helping me build the confidence and skills I’ll need when I have my own classroom.

My expected graduation date is May 2026. After graduating, I plan to work in MCPS as a fourth-grade teacher and eventually become a math specialist at my school. My goal is to provide the best education possible for the next generation.

My advice to anyone considering USG is this: You’re in good hands here.