Sophomore education major Kelly Merk is busy, but had enough time to sit down and chat with me about her everyday life and involvement in our school and in her major.
Kelly, more specifically, is an early education and special education major here at our school, giving her the busy title of a double major. “The work load is a lot but with good time management I am able to get everything I need to get done, finished and out of the way, “ said Merk. As part of the major, beginning sophomore year, students can participate in field experience at a near by school, to gain the in-class experience as a teacher for after they graduate. Kelly participates in this program through the Cabrini College Children’s School, helping teach pre-school.
“I love it,” said Merk, “I love the kids I help with, and I love being able to help them grow in the classroom and get ready for the grades ahead.” Although she does not have a minor, Kelly participates in two clubs as well as having a double major. “I participate in cav-traditions and CFEC,” said Merk. Cav-traditions coordinates with alumni, to host events such as the color run, and the alumni golf tournament. CFEC, Cabrini Friends of Exceptional Children, is a group that promotes awareness and advocacy for children with exceptional needs.
Most of her time is taken up by school and field work, but still somehow finds ways to have fun. “Well, I try to get to the gym on most days, but other than that, I also volunteer for things like the Special Olympics.”
Whether its working in a pre-school, volunteering outside of school, working out in the gym or doing all of her homework, Kelly Merk epitomizes the picture of a busy college student, but as they say hard work pays off. “I have made the Deans List twice now, with a 3.5 GPA, “ said Merk, “It takes a lot of work but I am where I am with all the time and effort I put into it.”
Kelly can be used as an example for all those here or at another college as proof that hard work and time management is key to success in college. Other than school, family is everything to Kelly, “I have my parents, two sisters, and one dog: her name is Precious.”
