Jason Dustin – Spring 2026 Graduate

Published Apr 29, 2026 by
Filed under: General, Graduate Spotlights, Literacy Studies, English and History Education, Student News
Person wearing a blue helmet and outdoor gear stands inside an ice cave with flowing water and blue ice formations.

Name:

Jason Dustin

Major/Degree Program:

Secondary History Education

Hometown/Current City:

Las Vegas, Nevada

Hobbies/interests:

My hobbies include things such as video games, backpacking, and watching documentaries with my main historical interest being ‘The Ancient Near East’ 

What’s your favorite memory from your time at ECU?

Meeting my close friends in my cohort and making another set of lifelong friends after finishing my service with the Marine Corps.

What inspired you to pursue a career in education?

My 5th grade teacher Mrs. Alcala inspired me to become a teacher due to her helping me learn to read by developing my love of fantasy novels.

Who has made the biggest impact on your journey here?

My grandparents have made the most significant impact on my life since they adopted me as a young child from a rough home life. I wouldn’t be the man I am today without their help and words of encouragement throughout my life, and even as I change paths, I always know that my grandparents will be there to encourage me to continue forward. 

What’s next after graduation?

I’m currently applying to high school social studies positions across North Carolina & Virginia in the hopes of helping the next generation to think critically and develop their professionalism. 

What advice would you give to future College of Education students?

Be humble and constantly strive to improve your instructional materials. It is the foundation of your students’ understanding. 

How has the College of Education prepared you for the classroom (or your next step)?

The College of Education has prepared me by providing me with a Cooperating Teacher (CT) who has shaped me, building on my prior experiences, into the teacher I am today. Mr. Ambrose has modeled what every teacher should strive to be through his commitment to continuously improving instructional materials, connecting concepts to real-life experiences, fostering active discussions that deepen student understanding, and creating a positive learning environment by developing strong, professional relationships with students.