For educators, starting a new school year means lesson planning, classroom preparation and supply gathering. For Bella Howard, it also means bringing a passport, buying a plane ticket and packing for a new life overseas.
The soon-to-be Bellarmine graduate will be teaching English to first- through sixth-graders in South Korea. Bella’s time at Bellarmine transformed her interest in travel and languages into a career and passion she will soon share with students.
“I’ve always wanted to travel the world, and I thought that combining it with my love of teaching would be an incredible opportunity.”
She met Dr. Hoon Choi, an assistant professor of Theology and a native of South Korea, on the first day of class her first year at Bellarmine. “He introduced me to the idea of teaching abroad,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to travel the world, and I thought that combining it with my love of teaching would be an incredible opportunity.”
Bella’s interest in Korea began at a young age. “Prior to coming to Bellarmine, I had started learning Korean,” she said. “I have attempted to learn several languages on my own since I was in elementary school, and a friend of mine had introduced me to different Korean media in high school, including music, tv, film, etc. I loved it and started learning Korean alongside her.”
Before her senior year, Bella studied abroad in Korea, solidifying her path. “I knew from that experience that Korea was where I wanted to begin my journey after graduation,” she said. “I know that there will be various challenges, but I think that this experience as a whole will help me grow as an individual and as an educator.”
After having her in class, Dr. Caitlin Murphy, assistant professor of Adolescent Literacy, knows Bella is up for the challenge. “Bella amazes me with her ability to balance her time and energy across many endeavors. Watching Bella, I see the future of education and the teaching profession. I can't wait to see the profound effect she will have on her students and communities both domestically and abroad.”
“I have to give credit to the
education program here at Bellarmine,” Bella said. “I was able to gain experience by being in the classroom and learn research-based strategies to implement in the classroom to give all of my students an opportunity to succeed inside and outside the classroom.”
Bella has words of wisdom for those looking to follow in her footsteps at Bellarmine. “It is academically challenging, but the small class sizes allow you to build relationships with your professors. Also, take advantage of resources and find a community here! Bellarmine has a variety of resources for students, different opportunities like study abroad, and lots of events across interests and disciplines,” she said. “College is hard in general, so having a support system and people you can reach out to is one of the most important parts. Finally, make time to take care of yourself, to relax, to develop a hobby, etc. Enjoy it!”
Congratulations to Bella and best of luck to her as she begins her career abroad.