Grad Spotlight: Megan Graciano
Name: Megan Graciano
Age: 26
Course of Study (degree being earned): B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies (early childhood – Grade 6 ESL core subjects certification)
Hometown: San Antonio
I am a first-generation graduate. I am 26 years old and enjoy being outdoors and doing fun activities. Eating new foods and trying new places is something I enjoy doing, along with traveling to different states/cities. My mom is the reason why I have come this far; she is my biggest role model and supporter. She’s the reason I chose to pursue a career in education. I aspire to be the woman she is.
What was your favorite class and/or who was your favorite professor? Why? Crystal Craig; she is very professional, great with answering questions and guiding us as learners. She always did the most for us, which is what you want from a teacher.
What would you say is the most important thing you’ve learned over the course of your studies? How diversity and student education is not only important in the school classroom but also outside of the classroom.
Describe any organizations or activities within COEHD that you’ve participated in. I have had two opportunities to intern (clinical teach) at two different districts: NISD and EISD. Both schools taught me different things as a future educator. All throughout this learning experience I learned how to become a culturally efficacious educator and take on the responsibility of lesson planning, prepping materials necessary for lessons, and learning how to juggle the many different obstacles that come with teaching and finding ways to deal with behavioral issues.
What is your fondest memory of your time at UTSA? Being able to actually go to the school with in-person classes
How has COVID impacted you, either personally or professionally? COVID didn’t really impact me personally or professionally, it just taught me to be more cautious of my surroundings and to stay in more.
What are your plans for the future and/or your career? My plans for the future are to thrive and shine! I want to start my career and take on life from there.
What has brought you inspiration during this time? E.g., music, books, people, etc. Music and my family have really inspired me.
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? I would choose Mr. McMan, the administrative assistant at Clark High School. He was always there for me as I was a troubled child growing up and I was always in his office. He never scolded me, rather he guided me and gave me words of wisdom. This is something that I will never forget because most teachers would just scold and discipline rather than take the time to talk and really get to know you and understand who you are. I would order a grande iced latte with 2 pumps of raspberry and Mr. McMan would probably order a hot coffee with cream and sugar.
Congratulations to all of our 2021 COEHD graduates! See more COEHD graduate spotlights here