Even as a child, Nicole Gianakos always had an interest in teaching. “I had wonderful teachers growing up who made such an impact on my career choice and my life that I knew this was the career path for me,” she says.
Nicole was able to fulfill her dreams at UHart and graduated with a BS in Integrated Elementary and Special Education. She is excited to begin her career as a third grade teacher at Dwight Belizzi Elementary School in Hartford this fall.
Nicole feels fully prepared to step into her career thanks to her student teaching and fieldwork experiences in Hartford Public Schools and East Granby Public Schools. "All of my fieldwork opportunities, my practicum placement and my student teaching placement gave me hands-on experience and expanded my knowledge of teaching. Being in the classroom from the first semester of freshman year sets the stage for growth throughout the rest of your opportunities," she says.
She adds that the support of faculty in Hillyer College, where she began her academic journey, and the College of ENHP was also an important part of her preparation. "All the professors truly want to see you succeed and will do anything to help you," she says. “They were so supportive and encouraging throughout my entire experience. I came to UHart as a freshman and heard all the success stories of getting a job right after graduation, and now I am that success story. UHart pushes you to be the best student, person, and educator you can be.”
Outside of classes, Nicole was involved with the Delta Gamma sorority and says she has many great memories from her time at UHart. “My experience at UHart was amazing. There's so many things to do, so many amazing people to meet, and so many opportunities to grow."
Her advice to new students is, “Take every opportunity, step out of your comfort zone and ask questions!"
Nicole Gianakos ’22, Integrated Elementary and Special EducationI came to UHart as a freshman and heard all the success stories of getting a job right after graduation, and now I am that success story. UHart pushes you to be the best student, person, and educator you can be."