My name is Grace Hilton and I am an undergraduate at Hollins University intending to graduate with a Bachelor of the Arts in English and my VDOE teaching certification in 6-12 English.
Since I started school, I’ve admired and respected the role of a teacher. I was fascinated by their ability to be knowledgeable and caring, to mix two usually contrasting concepts of logic and emotion. Teaching has always been my dream job; being able to shape future generations through knowledge and nurture is a passion of mine. I want to create an environment for students that may not always be available to them, someplace comfortable and safe where they are encouraged to share their ideas and try again and again before giving up.
Even before involving myself in the Hollins Education Program, I sought out roles similar to education: babysitting and being an advisor for younger students (such as sixth and ninth graders). Within this program, I’ve been given a variety of opportunities to observe and assist teachers and students alike, from simple observations to one-on-one tutoring to student teaching.
English has always been my favorite, if not sometimes my most difficult, subject. I’ve always enjoyed reading and found my love for classics in high school. I love the challenge of an essay and analytical writing. In my fall semester of my senior year, I completed a senior thesis on Khaled Hosseini’s A Thousand Splendid Suns, as well as a presentation to accompany our senior English colloquium.
My hobbies outside of school include reading, making art, and exploring the sights of D.C. and NoVa with friends and family.