By TANGELA JOHNSON

tjj004@latech.edu

 

Scholarships were awarded to fifteen education majors across Louisiana, and one of Tech’s own was among those recipients. 

Lindsey Keith, a senior secondary education major, received a 2007 Tom and Kyle Clausen Scholarship worth $750.

Keith said she is a firm believer in taking actions, such as applying for scholarships, in order to reach your goals.

“I have always been discouraged by individuals who are quick to complain, yet do not take the steps to change that of which they disapprove,” Keith said. “I believe that knowledge truly is the answer to many of the world’s problems.”

Since attending Tech, Keith said she has participated in other enriching activities in the area of education.

“During the summer, I had the honor of serving as a counselor for the Louisiana Gear Up camps,” Keith said. “The young men and women that I met not only gave me a fun filled vacation, but they also gave me an alternative view of life and post-secondary education.”

Keith said her experiences taught her every student deserves the chance to see college as a reality. Keith encourages all in her field to continue to focus on making a difference in the lives of children no matter what.

“In every career, workers become weary, but there is no better encouragement than to remember that educators have the honor of helping mold responsible citizens,” Keith said. “Educators are in a humbling role, offering support and guidance.”

Dr. Connie LaBorde, associate dean of the College of Education, said Thomas and Kyle Clausen were the husband and son, respectively, of Dr. Sally Clausen, president of the University of Louisiana System, and the scholarship was established in memory of her husband and in honor of her son.

LaBorde, also director of field and clinical experiences,  said the education department informs students of scholarship opportunities.

“We generally use Blackboard and put up notices when we know that scholarships are available,” LaBorde said. “If there are particular candidates [interested], we also try to contact them and encourage them to apply.”

LaBorde said the year the scholarship initially was offered, there were several recipients from Tech.  This year, LaBorde said there were five applicants, but she hopes for more in the future.

Ebony Jefferson, a freshman education major, also believes education is a fundamental part of life.

“In order to become a doctor or an engineer, you have to have somebody to teach you, so it’s your foundation,” Jefferson said.

She said her own experiences with education also helped her in choosing education as her major.

“My love for math and tutoring showed me I was able to teach,” Jefferson said.

She also said her chosen profession is not popular because of its lack of financial incentive.

“A lot of people go into fields that pay more money,” Jefferson said.

“Teaching doesn’t bring a high income.”

Like Jefferson, Keith does not look for money as her only reward.

Keith said, “The intrinsic rewards for the success of a student will certainly be ample compensation.”