College of Education and Behavioral Sciences News

“The best part of WKU for me was getting to do what I loved each and every day with pursuing my education degree while also being a student-athlete,” said Jennifer Rush, a graduating senior and student-athlete with the Lady Topper Volleyball team, from Granville, Ohio.  

“This was made possible due to dual support and coordinating efforts of both the academic and athletic departments.”

Rush came to WKU in 2019 and became an Elementary Education major after trying a few other programs. She describes multiple ways in which the department contributed to her valued experience.

“All of my elementary education professors are extremely passionate about their careers and are willing to go out of their way to help any of their students. The Education department gives students the opportunity to be surrounded by professors and peers who are just as passionate about making a difference in future learners,” Rush said.

Rush has gained experience this year by teaching in schools. In January, she began student teaching at Potter Gray Elementary School with fifth grade followed by first grade. She describes her fifth-grade students as “inspiring and always a joy to be around” and her first-grade students as “loving and eager to learn.” 

“I find myself incorporating what I have learned through the Elementary Ed program every day in my student teaching experience at Potter Gray Elementary,” Rush said.

Rush takes education seriously in her own life as well. She has earned a spot on the WKU President’s and Dean’s Lists every semester since beginning at WKU. This May, she will graduate Magna Cum Laude, signifying a grade point average of 3.60 - 3.79. In addition, she earned reoccurring academic honors with Conference USA. 

According to WKU Sports, Rush played in 29 matches and a total of 61 sets in 2022. She recorded 65 kills, 20 blocks, and 15 digs for the year.

“It was an honor to be a part of such an amazing program for four years. The local support within Bowling Green for WKU Athletics is truly amazing,” Rush said. “I am wholeheartedly convinced that WKU Volleyball has the most loyal fan base out there. My experience at WKU would not be the same without the love and support within this special community.” 

After graduation, Rush plans to find a home teaching at an elementary school.

“In my years at WKU, I have gained an understanding of the importance of relationships between teachers, students, administration, and families. Practicing skills to build these relationships is extremely important and is one of the key components I will take with me walking out of the education program,” Rush said.

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For more information about the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at WKU, visit https://www.wku.edu/becomeateacher/index.php.

#WKUGrad series: As part of our #WKUGrad series, articles on graduating students are shared in the weeks leading up to Commencement. See all of their stories at https://www.wku.edu/news/articles/index.php?view=default&categoryid=799&multinewsid=187