Molly Dohm

Please describe your position and what you enjoy most about it.

I teach American History and U.S. Government to high school students in Poplar Bluff, MO. In addition, I am the assistant Student Council sponsor. I serve on data teams, and have presented at our district’s professional development conference. Teaching social studies allows me to share my passion with students, while getting a front row seat to their “a-ha!” moments of understanding. Forming relationships with students and watching them excel is the most enjoyable part of my career.

 

What aspects of your HLGU experience helped you prepare for your career?

HLGU challenged and pushed me in a way that prepared me to be a teacher. The Education Department provided me valuable experiences in teaching prior to graduation that have served me well time and time again. They encouraged me to incorporate my own personality into my teaching, lead with a compassionate and understanding heart, and to never stop learning. Because of HLGU, I have had the confidence and knowledge to become a leader in my school.

 

What HLGU professors played a part in your success? How did your relationship with faculty help you succeed?

The faculty members at HLGU were the best part of my college experience. All of my professors were knowledgeable and took the time to help me understand the content. Dr. Samuel Swisher, as well as the entire Education Department, motivated me and pushed me to reach my full potential.

 

Please list any scholarships, honors, or awards you received as an undergraduate or graduate.

– Graduated Cum Laude
– President of the Honors Program, Sensus Plenior
– Selected to attend the Missouri Governor’s Student Leadership Forum
– Academic Scholarships all 4 years

 

What are some of your favorite HLGU memories?

The majority of my favorite HLGU memories revolve around the friendships I made during my time on campus. From midnight breakfasts, late nights laughing in the Wiehe, and cramming for tests together, to now having careers and serving as bridesmaids in one another’s weddings, I will always be thankful for the friendships made at HLGU.

 

What on-campus activities were you involved in at HLGU?

I was an RA for three years, participated in intramural sports, served as the president of Sensus Plenior, and played in the band. The summer after my junior year, I was fortunate enough to travel with some other girls from HLGU to Southeast Asia for missions. Of course, I loved watching Trojan Idol, participating in events planned by Student Activities, and spending time with girls in the dorms.

 

HLGU’s motto is “knowledge for service.” What roles have these values played in your life?

Using “knowledge for service” is the embodiment of my teaching career. Every day that I step onto my school campus, I know that I can use my knowledge and gifts to not only challenge them academically but to be a mentor/support system for many of these high school students.

 

Molly has an educational website/blog where she shares lessons and ideas for social studies classrooms. Check it out at www.simplysocialstudies.com