While growing up, Kaitlyn Stewart of Royersford has always had an interest in teaching and her favorite subject was math, even though most of her peers despised it. After graduating from high school, she decided to pursue her two favorite passions with the hope that she could become a teacher who would motivate students to enjoy math or at least be open to it.

After contemplating the benefits of receiving a great education for a fraction of the cost while being able to live at home with her family, she decided Montco was the right fit for her.

“I have accomplished just as much here or even more than at any other college,” said Stewart, who feels grateful for her Montco experiences.

Originally an Early Education major, Stewart changed her mind after having the opportunity to shadow a kindergarten classroom. She realized many students struggle with math, especially in high school, so wanted to help students at the secondary level and dispel the stigma that math is difficult to learn.

Stewart gives much credit to her professors who have helped her along her journey at Montco. Despite English being one of her more challenging subjects, Instructor Michael Lee at West Campus encouraged her to reach her full potential in his class.

Professor Lee pushed me in English, one of the subjects I thought I was not so skilled in. I am really thankful for the academic support I received from him.

Off campus, Stewart is actively involved in her church, JRNY, where she teaches four- and five-year-old children different lessons about stories in the Bible. Her volunteer work has taught her how to manage different personalities and skill levels, while keeping the class on task.

In addition to her course work and activities, Stewart also works part-time at a grocery store.

When first starting college, she felt a little nervous to participate in class and activities around campus, but after excelling in the classroom, she gained more confidence. She became a member of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year colleges, and was the recipient of the All-Pennsylvania Academic Scholarship award.

Graduating as an honors student and being one of the five MCCC students to receive this award, Stewart feels like she has grown to new heights, thanks to Montco.

“I am so grateful for my experience at Montco, I am truly going to miss it.”

Following graduation, Stewart plans to attend Bloomsburg University in the fall to earn her bachelor’s degree in secondary education.