Student Stories

STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES

Matthew Hein, Dual Degree Program (History/ Students with Disabilities Generalist) BA/MSED 2022

Matt Hein

The Dual Degree (History B.A., Students with Disabilities MSEd) program provides you with the necessary tools to be an educator in the fast-paced 21st century. Now, more than ever, our students need high-quality teachers who are there to support them not only academically, but socially and emotionally as well. This program not only taught me how to be an effective special educator, but also how to reach all students regardless of ability. While at Canisius, I taught students in grades 4-12, and in environments ranging from Self-Contained Special Ed classrooms to general education, and even Advanced Placement courses. These diversified experiences teach you how to adapt your teaching style to the various needs of our students. I utilize the skills learned from my time at Canisius daily in my classroom.

Our program faculty provided us with real-world examples and problems to solve for students. I chose Canisius because of this program. It allowed me to obtain both of the certifications I desired (Social Studies & Special Education). When I started at Canisius, however, I didn’t realize that I was embarking on an amazing journey to become a teacher that is so well-prepared to enter a classroom. Additionally, I always envisioned myself teaching social studies at the high school level. However, after my time at Canisius, and being in the special education classroom, I cannot picture being anywhere else!

I am proud to have been a Canisius Golden Griffin that is now a teacher in the Lancaster School District as a Special Education Consultant Teacher. I would not be as prepared to teach students with complex needs if it was not for my time at Canisius.

Jon Aumiller, MS Adolescent Social Studies Education and Special Education 7-12, '20

Jon Aumiller

"In 2016 I decided to make a change in my life and pursue a career in education. I quickly realized that I would have to go back to school to gain my initial certification as well as a Masters's degree. After meeting with several other schools in the area, I decided to return to Canisius. My decision to continue my education at Canisius University was an easy decision to make. I completed my undergraduate degree at Canisius in 2015 and was very familiar with the quality of education and high standards that Canisius students are held to. 

The individualized support that I received was second to none. Professors and advisors are genuinely invested in the success of each Canisius University student. This was especially evident during pre-student teaching and student teaching. The feedback and knowledge I received in each of my classes have helped me immensely in my first year of teaching. As a first-year teacher, I am confident in my abilities and have a strong foundation of knowledge that has helped me navigate teaching during a pandemic. I attribute this to my time at Canisius University."