Peyton Roedder

Where are you now?

Ocean Springs Upper Elementary School, Ocean Springs, MS

Why did you decide to come to MSU and pursue a degree in education? 

Mississippi is nicknamed "The Hospitality State" and after my first campus visit to MSU, I realized that the nickname could not be more fitting. The people were kind, the scenery was beautiful, and even though I was a stranger, I had never felt more at home. Knowing how important education was to me growing up helped show me why becoming a teacher was the right decision for me. Becoming an elementary teacher had been my career goal for as long as I could remember, and I could not imagine myself going in another direction. During my senior year of high school, I was a student mentor for the third grade in Carmi, and I absolutely loved it! Being looked up to (literally) by seventy third graders for fifty minutes of the day made me feel so full inside. Hearing the kids all shout "Miss Peyton" as soon as I opened the door was the highlight of my day. Since I was a mentor, I did not get paid with anything tangible, unless a homemade bracelet or a homemade drawing was considered payment. Instead, I received love, joy, and happiness, things that money could not buy. 

What do you want people to know about you? 

I am an animal lover! I have three Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and they are the cutest! For my 16th birthday, I went to my dad's coworker's house in Arkansas to see his pack of wolves. (Don't worry, they were just like big dogs.)

What activities were you involved in on campus (other than METP)?

I was involved in BSU, Honors College, and Dance Marathon: CMN Relations. I became more involved in other activities as the school years progressed. 

What advice would you give to entering freshmen or students finishing up high school?

Do your best and work hard! School is a privilege, so do not take it for granted. Learn to your full potential, and strive to be the best version of yourself inside and outside of the classroom. Keep all of this in mind, but utimately, just be yourself.