Grad Spotlight: Hallie Caballero

Name: Hallie Caballero

Age: 22 

Course of Study (degree being earned): B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies (early childhood – Grade 6 ESL core subjects certification) 

Hometown: San Antonio  

Hi, I'm from San Antonio and chose this degree after having a part-time job in high school working with kids, and I fell in love with it. I hope to become an elementary or middle school teacher, then later on a school counselor! I chose UTSA because of almost all of my immediate family graduating from here. 

What was your favorite class and/or who was your favorite professor? Why? My favorite class was CI 4403: Approaches to Teaching Math EC-6 because my favorite professor, Dr. Craig taught it! She was the kindest and most passionate professor I have ever had while at UTSA. She genuinely made class fun and exciting, and I will always remember her and her teaching style! 

What would you say is the most important thing you’ve learned over the course of your studies? I learned a lot about appreciating different cultures and backgrounds.

Describe any professional experiences or internship opportunities you have had. I participated in yearlong clinical teaching, which was by far one of the greatest times I've had. I got to build a bond with my students as well as my mentor teacher, and I am ready to start my career in my own classroom. 

What is your fondest memory of your time at UTSA? Meeting all my new friends was the best memory I have at UTSA. 

How has COVID impacted you, either personally or professionally? COVID definitely put a strain on everyone's life, but thankfully it didn't impact me too personally. 

What are your plans for the future and/or your career? I plan on becoming an elementary school teacher and later on, a school counselor. 

What has brought you inspiration during this time? E.g., music, books, people, etc. My friends always pushed me to keep going during rough patches, especially my best friend Veronica. 

You’ve been given the opportunity to have coffee with any notable figure from your field, alive or dead. Who is it, and what does each of you order? Jane Elliott; I’d get a vanilla iced coffee and she’d definitely order black coffee with no cream or sugar.

Congratulations to all of our 2021 COEHD graduates! See more COEHD graduate spotlights here