In addition to reading books, attending classes, or listening to lectures, the journey of becoming a teacher at Quincy University involves working under the guidance of specific individuals. One such instructor that education majors have the opportunity to work under is Christina Priebe, an assistant professor of education and director of student teaching.

Christina Priebe, EdD., takes her job very seriously, and from the first class, it is evident that her way of teaching is quite unique. All of her classes are interactive and discussion-oriented; rather than explaining things, she likes to involve students in practical discussions, lessons, and assignments. For example, the class can start with a group activity or brainstorming session in which participants can share their thoughts on a particular problem. The lesson can then be followed up by some sort of debate on an important educational issue.

Priebe’s classes are often described as challenging yet comfortable; although she demands a lot from her students, she simultaneously encourages them to ask questions, share opinions, and participate actively in all class-related activities.

Kenzie Moss is an elementary education major and is a student in Priebe’s Assesments class. She always talks about Dr. Priebe and how she makes class fun to attend and always gets a good laugh when she’s in class.

“Dr. Priebe really makes you think like a teacher, not just a student. She challenges us, but she also makes us feel like we can actually succeed in the classroom, ” Moss said.

As the director of student teaching, Dr. Priebe has an essential role to play, which goes beyond what occurs at a university level. In essence, Dr. Priebe works with students when they transition into actual classroom settings for the first time in their lives. The opportunity enables the learners to put what they have learned into practice while still being able to seek guidance from their professors, who understand their struggles.

Brooke Sohn is also an elementary education major at Quincy University and takes many of Dr. Priebe’s classes.

“I love that Dr. Priebe is always personable with her students and she knows every one that goes through the program. She is wonderful mentor and person in general, and I love that her classes are interactive and we do a lot of hands on work and we get to go in the field,” Sohn said.

Dr. Priebe’s unique characteristic is the way in which she connects with her students personally. For instance, Dr. Priebe always takes time to learn more about her learners by knowing what they want to achieve, what they can do best, and where their weaknesses lie. As a result, it makes her stand out among other teachers, who may see learners only as objects of knowledge but not people with hopes, aspirations, and ambitions.

It is quite clear that she loves what she does, whether she is critiquing lesson plans, observing student teachers, or even boosting one’s confidence, she is always there to do whatever is required. The fact that she is always ready means a lot for her students; most of them end up remembering what she taught them even after leaving the institution.

In the field of education where confidence and preparations are essential, Dr. Priebe is preparing the coming generation of teachers. Her influence through her courses, mentorship program, and overall readiness makes the difference.