Alumni Spotlight: Laura Wilde

Sarah Wilde

McKay Student Ambassador

Special Education (Severe/Profound Disabilities Emphasis)

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What originally led me to consider teaching as my career? My mom's example! My mom, Laura Wilde, is an alum of the McKay School, and now I get to walk in her footsteps! We talk about teaching often, and I asked her a few questions to share here on our blog.

1) What was your major? Why did you choose that major?

"Elementary Education… I really love kids! I love helping them grasp a new concept, love seeing the lightbulb when they get it. I enjoy creating a safe and fun environment where kids can feel comfortable. I chose elementary ed because I feel like I relate well with younger kids, but I wanted the flexibility to go a little bit older as well."

2) When did you graduate? How much time have you spent teaching since?

"I graduated in April 2004. I taught elementary school for 2 years (one of those as a BYU intern). I have also taught preschool out of my home for 7 of the last 10 years (taking time off for having babies)."

3) How did your time at BYU prepare you for your future?

"As a BYU student, I learned to look at the world through a more spiritual lens. Even when classes were challenging and the days were long, there was always an emphasis on eternity. How was what I was doing going to affect my future self, my future spouse, and my future children? How was I being prepared to be a kind and Christlike teacher, and how was I being prepared to serve in any future callings I might receive? What did I need to do or learn in order to fulfill the work God had for me? I feel like thinking in terms of my college education fitting into my overall development as a disciple of Jesus Christ has changed the way I think about a lot of things through the years. I also met so many people from so many different backgrounds, had a lot of volunteer opportunities, and participated in a lot of various activities that I feel like broadened my perspective on people and the way we all interact."

4) How do you continue to live the aims of a BYU education as you “go forth to serve”?

"Well… I still remember parts of the song my group made up about the aims during freshman orientation… I currently teach preschoolers, help in Primary, try to send texts or take treats or a meal to someone who is on my mind, and just be a cheerful and helpful person as much as possible. I am thankful for BYU’s role in helping me develop habits of spiritual and intellectual growth, as well as a service mindset."

5) Any advice for current students and future teachers?

"Remember that first and foremost, you are a disciple of Christ. Although you might be teaching in a school setting, you still represent Him everywhere you go. There will be challenging days or challenging students that make you wonder why on earth you are doing this to yourself. The answer is because you care enough to make a difference. And you will make a difference. Those kids who need a little more love will always remember the teachers who gave it to them. You will never regret being kind and compassionate, especially in difficult circumstances."

6) Anything else you want to add?

"I am super thankful for my time at BYU and the way it has helped shape my life!"

And I am super thankful for the influence she had on me growing up! Her education at BYU not only shaped her life, but it shaped my life too! A degree in education is something that you can use throughout your life, in and out of the classroom.

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