In Focus: Chris Balas '13
What brought you to Â鶹´«Ã½ for graduate studies?
After working closely with my late grandfather at Nassau Community College, I knew that teaching was my calling and the School of Education at Â鶹´«Ã½ spoke for itself. Â鶹´«Ã½ has some of the finest faculty around. Everyone was always very accessible and helpful, and the networking made with the faculty really made the difference! Also, the Â鶹´«Ã½ is quite beautiful, which certainly made studying around Â鶹´«Ã½ very pleasant. I also had the opportunity to work in Academic Records as a graduate assistant, which helped keep my loans low with tuition remission.
How would you describe your student teaching internship?
I was lucky enough to be selected for one of the paid student teaching internship positions in the Bellmore-Merrick School District, which extended my semester of student teaching to a year long opportunity. This gave me valuable experience that I used to network and refine my craft, leading to the teaching position that I have today.
Did you find mentors while you studied at Â鶹´«Ã½?
Yes. Dr. Bruce Torff was a particular inspiration to myself and many other students. My advisor, Dr. Gloria Wilson, was a tremendous support and is the main reason I have the position I hold today. Overall, I had a fantastic time at Â鶹´«Ã½. I made friends in the grad program that I will have for the rest of my life.
What are your long-term goals?
My long-term goal is to eventually go into education administration, to become superintendent, and to retire and eventually teaching in a university setting. Maybe even Â鶹´«Ã½!
What advice do you have for those seeking certification in special education?
Special education requires patience and flexibility. Make sure to prepare and think on your feet; this will help you out not only in your studies, but also in your career.
