Master of Arts in Teaching, 2013
School of Education
February 1, 2013
MAT/Credential Graduate Committed to Becoming an Expert in All Content Areas
Lauren Guite currently is a first grade teacher in the Spanish-English dual language immersion program at Viejo Elementary School in Mission Viejo, California and a graduate of the UC Irvine MAT/Multiple Subject Credential Program.
Lauren completed her undergraduate studies at UCLA, graduating with degrees in both psychology and Spanish. While at UCLA, she had the privilege of studying abroad for a semester in Madrid, where she was able to truly immerse herself in the Spanish language and lifestyle, and she considers this one of the most valuable experiences that she has had thus far.
Lauren also spent one month in a summer intensive in Costa Rica, which allowed her to further her Spanish skills while also giving her a chance to explore the Central American culture. These two experiences really confirmed a love for language, culture, and travel that Lauren hopes to incorporate into both her career and personal life.
After graduating from UCLA in 2010, Lauren took a year off from school to work and decide on a career path. Teaching had always been something that she had considered because she comes from a family of teachers, and after some careful thought, she decided to apply to the UC Irvine MAT program for the 2011-2012 school year. She felt compelled to work with elementary-age students, a decision that was confirmed through her wonderful student teaching experiences in both 1st and 4th grades.
The UC Irvine MAT/Multiple Subject Credential program absolutely prepared me for my career in teaching. I loved learning about all of the learning theories and best practices that should be present in every classroom. I constantly felt supported by my professors and supervisors, and I frequently correspond with them to receive expert advice about my classroom decisions.
Lauren feels that she has already learned so much in just a few months of having her own classroom, but is committed to becoming an expert in all content areas. This year she has decided to focus on developing her math knowledge and curriculum and is committed to using the Common Core standards and math research to inform her instructional decisions.
Lauren very much enjoys her current position.
Viejo is a very special place to teach, and I love the diversity of the students in the dual immersion program.
The dual immersion program at Viejo is in its third year, and Lauren feels honored and excited to be one of the teachers helping to build the program.