Beth Wood

What does Commencement/graduation mean to you?

Graduation means a whole lot to me because of the tough stuff I went through as a kid—stuff like being hurt physically and emotionally. But you know what? Graduation is like a shining beacon of success during all that darkness.  Imagine you're playing a game, and it's one of those games where you face so many challenges and obstacles. Well, life was my game, and the abuse I faced was like those tough levels that seemed impossible to beat. But guess what? Graduation is like reaching the final level and winning the game. It's a huge accomplishment that shows I made it through all the hard times and came out on top.  Graduation isn't just about finishing school—it's about proving that I am so much stronger than what happened to me. It's like a medal of victory, a way to show the world that despite the pain, I never gave up. It's a reminder to myself and others that I am not defined by the abuse I endured. Graduation tells everyone that I am successful, brave, and deserving of respect.  When I walk across that graduation stage, wearing a cap and gown, I feel like a superhero. That piece of paper I receive, whether it's a diploma or a degree, is more than just ink on paper—it's a symbol of my courage and resilience. It's a marker for the triumph I achieved despite the scars of my past.  Graduation is my way of saying, "Look at me now! I made it!" It's a celebration of my strength, determination, and the love and support I found along the way. It's a turning point, a steppingstone towards a brighter future where I can break free from the chains of my past and create a life filled with happiness and success.  So, when I think about graduation, I see it as a powerful reminder that I am not defined by the abuse I suffered. Instead, it shows that I am a survivor who can rise above any challenge. Graduation is my marker of success, my way of proving to myself and the world that I am strong, capable, and ready to make a difference. 

Did you have to overcome any difficult challenges during your education to make it to graduation? If so, what were they?

Wow, life has thrown some tough challenges my way, but I've managed to rise above them and achieve something truly incredible. You see, I had to juggle working full-time and going to college full-time, which was already tough. But then, things took an even scarier turn when I had two heart attacks. Can you believe it? I ended up in the hospital, and they had to put five stents in my heart. But guess what? Even from that hospital bed in the ICU, I kept pushing forward, doing my homework, giving speeches, and doing presentations. Nothing was going to stop me.  When I was younger, I was constantly told that I wasn't smart enough for college. Can you imagine having that voice in the back of your head, constantly doubting your abilities? Well, I took that doubt and turned it into fuel for my determination. I wanted to prove to myself and everyone who doubted me that I could overcome any obstacle in my path. And you know what? That's exactly what I did. Graduating college is my way of saying, "I did it! I showed you all that I am capable of so much more than you ever thought."  I owe a huge thank you to my amazing husband and my three wonderful children. They were my biggest inspiration and my greatest source of encouragement during those rough times. Their love and support pushed me forward when I felt like giving up. And let's not forget my bestie, who was there every step of the way, cheering me on and reminding me of my strength.  I am filled with gratitude for the love and patience that God has bestowed upon me and my family. It's with that love and patience that I was able to endure, overcome, and achieve. I am so proud of myself, and I'm grateful for every single person who believed in me. I've proven that I am stronger than any challenge, and I am ready to embrace the future with open arms. 

What has your experience at NLU been like?

I would like to express my deep appreciation for the incredible college experience I have had, which was nothing short of an exciting adventure filled with ups and downs. Throughout this journey, I have had the privilege of making numerous friends, including some extraordinary professors, whose profound impact on my life cannot be overstated. They have not only imparted essential knowledge and wisdom but have also made me feel like a cherished and valued student, rather than just another face in a crowded lecture hall.  I would like to extend a heartfelt shout-out to some truly amazing individuals: Professor Roy Kaelin, Dr. Alice Jackson, Larue Fitch, Sasha Villagrana-Frost, Eileen Canafax, and my esteemed field coach, Dr. Thera Tilmon. These remarkable individuals have transcended the boundaries of traditional teaching roles and have become invaluable mentors and guides to me. Their teachings have extended far beyond the confines of textbooks, encompassing invaluable life lessons and instilling in me a sense of personal worth. They have recognized something special within me and consistently offered unwavering support and encouragement.  I am profoundly grateful to these exceptional individuals. They have transformed my college experience into something extraordinary. Their unwavering dedication and profound expertise have had an immeasurable impact on my life.  You have made my college years unforgettable, and I cannot adequately express my gratitude for your unwavering support.  Armed with the lessons I have learned and the friendships I have forged, I now feel prepared to confront any challenges that may come my way in the future. This college odyssey has been truly special, all thanks to these remarkable individuals who have left an indelible mark on my life. 

What are your plans for the future?

My immediate goal is to accept a teaching job and embark on my journey as an educator. However, my aspirations extend beyond the classroom walls. After gaining valuable experience in teaching, I plan to return to National Louis University to pursue a Masters degree in ESL (English as a Second Language) Education. This decision stems from my unwavering passion for providing quality education to students from diverse cultural backgrounds. I firmly believe that language should never be a barrier to learning, and through my specialized training in ESL education, I aim to bridge that gap and create inclusive learning environments for all students. National Louis University is renowned for its distinguished faculty and innovative programs, making it the perfect institution for me to further develop my knowledge and skills in this field. The coursework will expose me to research-driven best practices, multicultural education, and language acquisition theories, empowering me to become a highly competent ESL educator. By obtaining a Masters degree, I hope to expand my career opportunities and increase my professional credibility. The advanced training will equip me with a deeper understanding of effective teaching strategies, enabling me to cater to the unique needs of English language learners. Moreover, it will provide me with a solid foundation to advocate for language learners and empower them to achieve academic success. In the long term, I aspire to make a lasting impact on the lives of my students and contribute to the field of ESL education through research and curriculum development. I envision myself working closely with fellow educators, sharing best practices, and promoting the importance of cultural sensitivity and inclusion in the education system. Ultimately, my plans revolve around continuously striving for personal and professional growth. I am dedicated to making a difference in the lives of students and advocating for equal educational opportunities for all. Through my teaching career and pursuit of a Masters’ degree in ESL education, I am confident that I will be able to fulfill my aspirations and positively impact the field of education.