Marissa De Ruiter is another in a long line of student teachers honing their teaching skills at Beaver Area High School. She currently attends Geneva College and is now teaching English alongside Mrs. Michelle Dietz. Let’s get to know more about Ms. De Ruiter . . .

Where did you grow up?

South Jersey—about 20 minutes outside of Ocean City, NJ.

Did where you grow up affect your choice for your occupation?

Yes! I was fortunate enough to live five minutes from a daycare/preschool where I worked for four years which sparked my interest in education.

Where did you go to high school?

I was homeschooled for most of my life, but I briefly attended a hybrid private school. At the hybrid private school, I took college courses. I continued to take college courses throughout my time in high school to get a jumpstart on college.

How long have you been student teaching?

I have been student teaching since January of this year.

Where would you consider teaching after graduation?

I will be applying at New Brighton High School, but I am open to going anywhere!

Why did you choose English?

English has been a big part of my life and during middle school and high school I spent a lot of time reading and writing. I had a really influential English professor who made me want to pursue English Education. I think that English is vital for students to know not only for academics but to understand the world around them.

If you could teach any other subject, what would it be and why?

Psychology, because the way the mind works has always fascinated me. It is incredibly complex and amazing!

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?

My biggest inspiration is to leave a mark. Whether it is through the way that I teach or how people remember me. No matter if I meet someone for a split second or have known them for years, I want people to feel seen and loved when around me.

What is one thing that you would like your students to take away from you?

The one thing that I want my students to take away is to be understanding. I want them to be able to critically think about why people are the way that they are and to understand the world outside of their bubble.

What is the hardest part about student teaching?

Due to the nature of this year, it has just been the uncertainty. As an education major and a person in general, I like to plan things out. However, due to COVID-19 it has left a lot of unknowns and has made me become a lot more flexible and [forced me to] go with the flow.