Megan Lahtonen
Megan Lahtonen (left) has always had an interest in the world of science. After being a student aid for her biology teacher senior year, Lahtonen found her calling was in the classroom.
Hometown: Glenburn, N.D.
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Biology Education
What are you involved in on campus?
I am a tutor on campus and mainly focus on helping students in science-based classes. I am a member of the VCSU Track and Field team, and I am also involved in the Education Club, which I just joined this past semester. I help with Science Olympiad every year, which has allowed me to connect with students from multiple different schools. I also work a lot with Professor Lindsey Kiecker when she is doing outreach programs.
What or who inspired you to major in Biology Education?
What inspired me to major in Biology Education was my high school science teacher Ms. Scheafer. During my senior year, I had the opportunity to be a student aid in her physical science classroom. I had always wanted to major in science, and after having that experience with her, I knew biology education was the perfect fit for me.
Why did you choose VCSU?
I chose VCSU for the small campus and small class sizes. When I visited campus for the first time, I knew that VCSU is where I wanted to be.
How do you balance practice, meets, labs, and coursework?
Balancing practice, meets, labs, and coursework was a challenge at first. All my coaches and professors were super understanding when I had to miss a practice or a lab due to having a meet or a longer lab.
What accomplishment – academic or athletic – are you most proud of?
Throughout my four years at VCSU, my biggest accomplishment has been how far I have come as a student since my freshman year. Coming into college, I had zero study skills, and I didn’t know how to manage my time. Shortly into my sophomore year, I finally found these important skills and excelled in all my classes.
Do you want to coach as well as teach? Why or why not?
Yes, I would love to coach as well as teach. I think having that opportunity would deepen my relationship with not only my own students, but students of all ages. It would also give me the opportunity to grow and connect to the community I teach in.
How have your professors supported you during your time at VCSU?
My professors have given me so much support during my time at VCSU. Especially Dr. Hilde, Assistant Professor Lindsey Kiecker, Dr. Sundstrom, Assistant Professor Trista Montgomery, and Dr. Galt. They have all supported me by giving me many opportunities to grow as a student and as a future teacher.
What advice do you have for future chemistry education majors?
My advice for future science education majors is to enjoy every classroom experience that you can get. I truly enjoyed all my field experiences that I had gotten throughout my four years at VCSU. Sometimes the stress of core classes made me lose my interest in wanting to continue in science education so, having this experience showed me why I chose science education. Remembering why you chose teaching can help you through the stressful courses as well.
Remember to always ask questions. Professors, mentors, teachers, and other education majors are great resources and collaborating with others can help you grow as an educator.
