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Amy Girolametti Hometown: Ridgefield, Conn. Major: Elementary Education & Psychology WCSU Degree: Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education Internships: Volunteered in numerous schools in Danbury and Ridgefield Activities: President of WCSU Education Club that won the School of Professional Studies Club of the Year award, part-time work for the Recreation Department, Clubs Council, Campus-to-Campus 5K, Relay for Life volunteer, Best Buddies program, substitute PARAprofessional for Ridgefield Public Schools working one-on-one with children with special needs and learning disabilities, part-time work at Kumon Learning Center as a teacher for kids ranging in age from pre-school to eighth grade, adviser to the Keystone Club (high school community service group) at the Boys and Girls Club of Ridgefield, also work as a camp counselor and a lifeguard at their summer camp |
Honors and Awards: Leona Bedient Crouchley/Charles D. Crouchley, Jr. Scholarship, book award from Capital University in Ohio, nominated for Education Honor Society, nominated as Connecticut Education Association Student Program State Secretary, received National Education Association CLASS Grant to put on a health fair at Rogers Park Middle School in Danbury, the Education Club received the award “Club of the Year in the School of Professional Studies” for 2009-10 under my presidency, and has been nominated again for 2010-11
Ridgefielder Amy Girolametti started her college career at SUNY-Cortland, where she was a cheerleader and actively involved in the Education Club. "I was there for one and a half years before transferring," she says. "I knew that WestConn’s education program would provide me with the edge I would need to be successful in the ever-growing teaching profession."
Girolametti says she decided to major in education because "growing up, I had teachers who taught me so much both academically and in life, and it has definitely shaped the person I am today. I was never a 'high-flying' student, and all of my teachers provided me with the support I needed to succeed in school. After realizing all that my teachers gave to me, I decided I wanted to be able to give that to other children."
While at Western, Girolametti says she was inspired again by her teachers. "Dr. Darla Shaw, the original adviser to the Education Club, provided with me with the ins-and-outs of club and of the education program. She also has provided me with valuable information to use in a classroom." Girolametti also mentions Dr. Mary Nelson, her psychology professor for several classes: "She has the utmost patience when it comes to teaching, and she was very helpful to me when I needed it." Finally, Girolametti mentions Dr. Becky Hall, a math professor and the newest adviser to the Education Club. "As a fellow WCSU graduate and former Education Club officer, she has provided a great perspective on how to run the club."
Asked what she will remember most about her WCSU experience, Girolametti says, "One of my most memorable experiences at WestConn was being accepted to the professional semester in the education program. Winning the award for the Education Club was also extremely memorable. It was great to see everyone's efforts pay off! The club allowed me to work with hundreds of children in the Danbury area and across the state, and I am extremely thankful for that opportunity.”
After graduation, Girolametti plans to attend graduate school while continuing to be a substitute teacher. "I hope to find an open teaching position, or a place as a long-term substitute."
Girolametti’s advice to new students entering WCSU is: "Get involved in an organization on campus — it is a great way to meet people, especially as a commuter. Keep open communication with your professors and adviser — they are the key to your success! Believe in yourself and don’t be afraid to take on a new challenge! Also, enjoy your college experience! Have fun, and do what makes you happy!”
