Elementary Educator
Master of Arts in Teaching
Miss Erin Westerman
My Experience
with Children
I have spent the past three summers working as a camp counselor at the same Girl Scout camp I attended as a kid! It is my absolute favorite part of the summer! I get to teach campers about nature, play games, tie-dye, and go brookstomping. Some weeks we even have talent shows so I have choreographed more dances than I can count. Additionally, I have supervised the camp sleepover, assisted in the training of new counselors, and attended extensive training put on by the Girl Scouts of Connecticut.
Unit Leader/Camp Counselor
Camp Merrie-Wood, CT
I was lucky enough to spend my first semester of my senior year interning in a small, private elementary school in San José, Costa Rica called Centro Educativo San Angelo. My role in the school ranged from anything from paraprofessional to tutor to head teacher... and more. This was such a learning experience for me, especially being the only native English speaker at the school. I was able to have a truly bilingual experience teaching my own lessons, and even preparing a song to sing at the graduation. I was welcomed into the school community with open arms and hold my few months there very close to my heart.
Assistant Professor of English Intern
San José, Costa Rica
After my time at the elementary school was over, I spent three weeks teaching English to a group of host families at Universidad Veritas in San José. I had never taught adults before but found it to be an extremely gratifying and eye-opening experience. With my students´input I was able to create a three week basic English curriculum based upon my personal experience living with host families, the most relevant themes to their situations, and the questions they posed. We also focused on pronunciation, which can be one of the most difficult elements for non-English speakers upon learning the language.
Adult ESL Teacher
San José, Costa Rica
During my summers throughout college, I tutored a set of twins, focusing on literacy and math activities. I created numerous activities and brought in
manipulatives and books to help them identify grade level sight words, practice reading, and improve math skills! I also spent a few weeks nannying two adorable toddlers, and then their cousins the next summer as well. We had so much fun checking out local museums, reading, and going swimming! Additionally, I have been babysitting since age 12 and have spent summers as a full-time nanny.
Nanny/tutor/babysitter
Connecticut - Massachusetts
Teaching Intern
Bolton Center School, CT
In January 2014 I completed a 120-hour internship in a second grade classroom at Bolton Center School. I often acted as a paraprofessional, providing extra help, and aided in the teaching of lessons. I was even able to teach my own mini lesson the last week! It was such an incredible learning experience and, after changing my major so many times, I knew I had finally found the right path for me!
While studying abroad in Spain, a few friends and I volunteered to teach English to high school classes. In addition, we volunteered at an after school program for students in an at-risk area of Madrid. I was able to help them with their homework- in both English and Spanish while they asked me a bunch of questions about traveling and the USA!
English Teacher/Tutor
Madrid, Spain
For a few years in high school, I worked at an indoor bouncy-house children's play center called Inflatable Adventure Zone. I got to play with kids and make sure they were safe, as well as plan and supervise parties on the weekends. It was such a blast!
Party Planner/Supervisor
Inflatable Adventure Zone, CT
