Kelsey Viar (English)

Where are you now?

Anderson Elementary School, Booneville, MS

Why did you choose teaching?  

Since I was a young girl, it had been my dream to be a teacher. I had always had a passion for working with children. Over the years, through my experiences of babysitting, tutoring, and working at an elementary school, I realized that my calling was in the education field. A lot of my family is in the education career field, but my grandfather was the main one who influenced my decision to become a teacher. He was a teacher and counselor for many years, and I saw personally the difference he made in so many people’s lives. He absolutely loved his job and always encouraged me to follow my dreams of becoming an educator as well. I chose English as one of my concentration areas because I had always considered it the most important subject. Without learning how to read or write, other subjects are impossible to learn. Math was my other concentration because it was always my best and favorite subject. I loved solving problems that always had one specific answer and were not ambiguous.

Why are you passionate about teaching?

I love seeing the spark in one child’s eye when he/she starts to make progress. Building relationships and trying to make a difference in my students’ lives is the most important and rewarding part of being a teacher.

What made you choose MSU?

Mississippi State had always felt like home to me. Several of my family members graduated from MSU. This school went above and beyond to make me feel like a part of the Bulldog FAMILY. The exceptional students, teachers, and administrators in the College of Education caught my attention on my first visit. I knew it was the place for me.

What activities do you enjoy outside of the classroom?

I enjoy cooking, baking, and reading. I also love spending time with friends and family, as well as at church.