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November 23, 2022

Student Spotlight

Mallory Schmidt

Visual Impairment Education major Mallory in the vision program lab, holding a colorful object used to teach the visually impaired.
Boyertown, Pa., native Mallory Schmidt is a Early Education/Visual Impairment Education major at Kutztown University. She plans to graduate in December 2022.

Why did you choose KU?

I chose KU because it felt like the perfect fit. Kutztown has one of six programs in the U.S. to offer a program to become a teacher of the visually impaired at the undergraduate level. The location, community, and opportunities offered are added bonuses that made my decision choosing KU one of the easiest!  

What are you involved with on campus (clubs/organizations)? 

Other than dedicating my time to my studies, I am the Vice President of Operations of Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority, I am a member of Braille Bears and the National Association of the Education of Young Children, and I am a tour guide for the office of admissions.

Why did you choose your major?

I chose to major in elementary education and visual impairment education to have the opportunity to make an impact in each one of my student’s lives. Kids have so much joy and endless imagination that makes teaching feel so rewarding. I cannot imagine having a different career.

What goals do you have for your major?

The best part about the field of education is the sky is the limit. There are so many opportunities each person can take. After graduating from Kutztown, my goal is to start working at a school for the blind and receive my Master’s in Orientation and Mobility.

How has KU helped you achieve/start to achieve these goals?

The vision program has allowed me to connect with so many professionals in the education field through national and state conferences, as well as interviews and meeting with various employers and universities. I already feel my skills and abilities are valued and supported within the field.

What advice would you give incoming students?

My biggest piece of advice to incoming students is to push yourself to be the best student you can be! Take the extra class, join another organization, go to your professor’s office hours, you can do more than you think you are capable of doing!

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