My name is Makenna Ferster, and I am currently a teacher candidate at Thompson Rivers University. My journey toward becoming an educator began at the College of the Rockies, where I completed my first year of post-secondary education. However, I soon realized I was ready for a change of scenery and new challenges, which led me to TRU. This decision has brought so many positive experiences into my life.
Alongside my education, I work as a tutor for students with diverse abilities. This job has been incredibly rewarding and eye-opening. Every day I learn more about patience, empathy, and how to support others in meaningful ways. It has confirmed my passion for teaching and has motivated me in striving to make a difference and inspire students.
One of my greatest joys outside the classroom is being a member of the TRU Cheer team. Cheerleading has become an essential part of my university life, helping me stay active throughout the year while allowing me to be part of a supportive community. Although practice is challenging and physically draining, it became two hours to clear my mind. I love competing in a team sport and watching not only my own progress but the growth of my teammates as well.
I also bring a love of athletics into everything I do. Throughout high school, I played volleyball, basketball, soccer, badminton, and gymnastics. Volleyball was a huge passion of mine. I was even invited to multiple regional excellence programs. Although I didn’t pursue it further during my first year of college, my love for the sport has never faded. I believe sports are healing and powerful, especially team sports that create connection and shared goals. I believe physical activity has a large impact on well-being, mental health, and benefits all aspects of life.
I’m also a certified gymnastics coach, and working with kids in that environment is something I truly enjoy. I adore their energy and playfulness, and I love helping them learn new skills while building confidence. Oddly enough, another activity I find calming and satisfying is house painting. I’m meticulous, patient, and genuinely enjoy the process, there’s something therapeutic about mudding, sanding, and painting.
Outside of work and school, I find joy in taking road trips, hiking, and exploring the outdoors. There’s something incredibly grounding about being in nature. These moments away from the busyness of daily life offer me space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with what matters most. Being in nature makes me feel a true sense of peace and belonging. Spending time outdoors allows me to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. I’m constantly learning from the land, its history, its resilience, and its teachings and those lessons stay with me long after the trip ends.
My family means everything to me. I’m lucky to have two loving and hilarious sisters, a determined and energetic brother, and parents who support through everything. I’m grateful for their love, guidance, and belief in me. I’m also blessed to have a partner who brings so much joy into my life and supports my well-being every step of the way. These individuals are the reason I am here today, and I am eternally grateful.
Who Am I as a Teacher Candidate?
I strive to share kindness and compassion with everyone I meet, believing that our actions can inspire others to do the same. By modeling these qualities, I hope to create a positive and inclusive environment both in and out of the classroom. Kindness is one of the most important human values, and I believe it should guide everything we do as educators.
Being patient is an important part of being an educator. I recognize that growth is a continuous process for ourselves, our students, and our peers. When we teach with patience, we create a supportive environment where everyone feels encouraged to learn, make mistakes, and improve at their own pace.
I’m a passionate and excited individual when it comes to doing the things I love. Teaching is something that truly brings me joy and purpose. I look forward to continuing this journey and making a meaningful impact in the classroom.
I would love to teach most of my lessons outdoors, as being in nature creates deep connection to the land and encourages mindfulness and curiosity. Learning outside supports students’ emotional and mental well-being and can also enhance their engagement. I believe outdoor education provides hands-on experiences that help growth, creativity, and a create stronger relationship with the world around us.
PMGY Ghana | Volunteering in Ghana with Plan My Gap Year
My ultimate goal is to gain experience teaching abroad and immerse myself in different cultures and communities. I believe there’s so much to learn from the people we meet, and each experience brings new perspective and growth.