Alliana Freund
Alliana Freund knew from a young age she wanted to be an educator. Coming to VCSU, Freund has challenged herself to grow not only as a student, but as a future educator as she prepares to student teach.
Hometown: Cando, N.D.
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: English Education
What are you involved in on campus?
I am involved in the Education Club and English Club. Throughout my college years I have been involved with the drama club, choir, and university singers. I serve on the Teacher Education Committee and the Student Advisory Committee, which has been such a meaningful leadership opportunity. I also work as a writing tutor in the Comp Lab and as a student worker for both the English and Communication Departments. Being involved in so many different areas has allowed me to build relationships across campus and really feel connected to the VCSU community.
What or who inspired you to major in English Education?
I’ve honestly wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I had teachers who weren’t just instructors, they were role models. They showed up every day with patience, encouragement, and a belief in their students, and that stuck with me. I saw how much of a difference they made, especially in a 
small-town community. I’ve always known I wanted a career where I could help people in a meaningful way, and teaching felt like the most natural fit. Choosing English Education specifically came from my love of reading and writing, but at the heart of it, I just want to be the kind of teacher who helps students feel capable, supported, and confident in who they are.
How has your coursework been preparing you for your own classroom?
My coursework has pushed me to think beyond just teaching content and instead focus on teaching students. I’ve learned how to design lessons with purpose, differentiate instruction, and think critically about how to support diverse learners. My field experiences, especially working in ESL classrooms, have been incredibly eye-opening and have reminded me how important patience, flexibility, and cultural awareness are in education. Every class builds on the idea that teaching is relational and that’s something I carry with me.
Which professor or mentor has had the biggest impact on your education journey?
It’s hard to choose just one, but I would have to say my advisor, Jodi Shorma, has had an incredible impact on me. She has been there for me both inside and outside of the classroom. She’s truly just a phone call away, and she has walked me through everything from answering my millions of questions to challenging me to think deeper and grow as a future educator. She constantly pushes me with thoughtful strategies and new perspectives, but she’s also incredibly relatable and supportive. Having someone who both believes in you and expects more from you makes such a difference.
Another professor who has made a huge impact is Dave Bass. He is always checking in on students, even outside of class, and genuinely cares about how we’re doing. He has been especially helpful as I’ve navigated questions about student teaching placements, my substitute license, and getting into the classroom. During moments that felt overwhelming, he made the process feel manageable. Knowing I can reach out to him at any time and get honest, practical guidance has meant so much.
I feel really lucky to have mentors in both the English and Education departments who are so invested in their students’ success.
What is one accomplishment from your program that you’re especially proud of?
Being nominated to serve on the Teacher Education Committee is something I’m especially proud of. Knowing that faculty trusted me to represent students at that level meant a lot. I also take pride in maintaining a 4.0 while balancing involvement across campus. For me, though, the accomplishment isn’t just about grades, it’s about consistently showing up, working hard, and growing into the educator I want to become.
How do you hope to inspire a love of reading and writing in your students?
I hope to inspire a love of reading and writing by making it personal and relevant. Students connect to stories when they see themselves in them or when they feel invited into meaningful conversations. I want my classroom to be creative, discussion-based, and full of opportunities for students to explore different perspectives. Most importantly, I want them to feel like their voices matter. When students feel heard, they’re much more willing to engage.
What advice do you have for future English education students?
Get involved. Say yes to opportunities, even the ones that feel a little intimidating, because that’s where so much growth happens. But also know your boundaries. It’s okay to protect your time and your energy. You don’t have to do everything to be successful.
Meet as many people as you can. Go to campus events. Introduce yourself. Build relationships with your professors and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Some of the best conversations and opportunities come from simply showing up and being willing to connect.
Most importantly, remember why you chose this major in the first place. There will be busy weeks and challenging moments, but if you stay grounded in your purpose, it makes the hard work worth it. Show up to class, be present, ask questions, and really own your learning. Your education is what you make of it, so lean into it.
