Nikki De Haan '14, B.Ed., Consecutive Bachelor of Education, Corbyville, Ontario

At Trent University Nikki found a way to combine her passion for coaching gymnastics with dreams of becoming a high school teacher. 

“I love making a difference in kids’ lives and being there for them just like my high school teachers and professors were for me,” states Nikki. “The Bachelor of Education Intermediate/Senior program allows me to give back. I hope one day I can be that one person that will be there for a kid no matter the situation.”

Nikki feels that Trent’s extensive placement hours provided comprehensive preparation for a career in teaching and allowed her to make great connections in the community. “Trent prepared me for a career in teaching by exposing me to every scenario you could possibly think of in a classroom or gymnasium,” said Nikki. “After leaving this program I feel confident teaching Physical and Health Education as well as Geography.”

While at Trent, Nikki met many supportive and like-minded friends and faculty. She feels her Physical Education and Geography curriculum teachers would do anything for their students and the small classes resembled more of a family setting than a classroom. She considers many of her fellow students and members of the Trent community as friends for life.

Nikki feels her degree directly allows her to be a role model for students and someone they can look up to.  “I hope to also use my degree and coach,” states Nikki.  “I had my fair share of teachers that went above and beyond. I hope to give back to my community by being just like the teachers I had.”

Extracurricular activities:

• Trent University Native Association