Lauren Farence – Spring 2026 Graduate
Name:
Lauren Farence
Major/Degree Program:
BS Secondary Science Education, Concentration in biology; BA General Biology
Hometown/Current City:
From Wanchese, North Carolina (little town in the Outer Banks!), currently living in Greenville, NC.
Hobbies/interests:
Going to the beach, coloring!
What’s your favorite memory from your time at ECU?
My favorite memory has been my entire senior year here! I have met so many amazing people, made new friends, and have been living a dream of teaching at a phenomenal school with even greater students and staff!
What inspired you to pursue a career in education?
I had some amazing teachers throughout my k12 years, and have had great professors in my time at COA and ECU. However, I truly realized I love teaching and want to teach when I finally got into my internship. It’s not always sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes the path is filled with self-doubt, I know it was for me. But finally being able to do all you dreamed of, not just being a science teacher, but being the teacher students trust, it is such a fulfilling thing.
Who has made the biggest impact on your journey here?
Dr. Charity Cayton has made the biggest impact on my journey. Since the first day I stepped foot into her classroom, she rooted for and supported me, studied and incorporated science pedagogical tools to help me, and has always been there for me no matter what. Though she will always be a queen at math, she has become the best scientist, and I will forever be grateful for her.
What’s next after graduation?
I plan to apply to grad school to obtain my masters in Instructional Technology!
What advice would you give to future College of Education students?
My biggest advice to future COE students is to not let yourself get overwhelmed by fear or stress, and to prioritize your well-being. It’s easy to feel in over your head with practicums, coursework, Praxis, and edTPA, but it is all worth it in the end. Remember that your mental health matters!!! it’s okay to take breaks. Find your people, lean on your friends and professors, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Most importantly, try to enjoy the experience and find the good in everything. Your time here will go by quickly, and before you know it, you’ll be in your own classroom. Have fun, experience as much as you can, and make the most of your time here at ECU.
Another piece of advice, major in secondary science education!!! 🙂 GO PIRATES!
How has the College of Education prepared you for the classroom (or your next step)?
I have learned so many useful pedagogical tools I can use, especially in technology, but most importantly, my professors and my clinical experience has helped me learn how fun and heartwarming teaching is, and can be. Without Dr Cayton, my students, my CT, and my amazing MATE/SCIE cohort, I don’t know what I’d do!