College of Education and Human Development

Meet Caitlin: Early childhood unified education

"My classes at Western Michigan University have definitely helped me with my leadership skills and patience. I'm stepping up to the reins now."

What was it like to win the first year Student Leader Award?

That was really cool, especially since I haven’t lead any clubs before. Most of high school for me was during the COVID era, so clubs weren’t really a part of that.

Have any of your classes helped you as a club leader?

I would say just college in general, which mostly is my major related classes, has definitely helped me with my leadership skills and patience. Kind of like how to problem solve. But I feel like they are kind of closely related.

How do you think the club is going to help you professionally?

Definitely getting more comfortable speaking in front of people and leading people. I've always been a more introverted, but I'm stepping up to the reins now.

Have you considered working with other hospitals?

I like Bronson because that is where we have our contact, but in the future I would love to extend to Borgess Hospital.

Are there any goals for year two?

Keep it fun and advertise more. We're going to do Bronco Bash this year to promote the club.

Early childhood unified education at WMU

WMU’s nationally accredited Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Unified Education prepares candidates for teaching and leadership positions in settings that serve children from birth through 3rd grade. Experienced faculty members mentor candidates to develop an effective balance of research, theory and practice in diverse educational settings. WMU offers multiple clinical experiences and a final internship which are spread across infancy through third grade and take place in private and public settings within diverse communities.

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In the news

Future educator hones leadership skills, gives back with student organization 'Blankets for Bronson'

A student in WMU's early childhood unified education program, Caitlin Darrah is applying the skills she learned from the program to make her a more effective leader as her club continues to make blankets for patients at Bronson Methodist Hospital.

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