Lessons I took from the Hill
By Francisco Romero ’19
It’s no easy task to feel at home while being across the country. This was the dilemma I faced when deciding whether to move from California to attend McDaniel College. Looking back, taking that leap was one of the best decisions I have made in my life. At McDaniel, I formed lifelong friendships with peers, McDaniel employees, and community members. I made Carroll County my home, entered the education profession, and have been teaching new generations of students for over six years. The question then is: What makes one feel at home in a new, distant place? Perhaps it is not the place itself, but the meaningful ways of interacting and engaging with those around you.
While at McDaniel, like many other students, I had outstanding professors that explained the basics and complexities of their content areas. In my case, professors in Merritt Hall explained methodology, classroom management skills, and best practices for teaching high school students. Once I was in my own classroom, these pedagogical concepts were quickly proven; I felt equipped to become an effective educator. It was certainly not an easy task, but I had confidence in myself, and I knew education was the place that I needed to be.
An important lesson that I learned from my many interactions with professors, advisors, internship coordinators, and practicum liaisons at McDaniel was not taught directly in the classroom; on the contrary, it was a lesson I observed. This lesson was to create a career filled with passion, encouragement, and faith. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I met individuals that supported me and encouraged me to continue on my educational journey. In addition, I felt like I was part of a new generation of educators that cared and believed in making a positive change in the world.
I believe change starts with the meaningful relationships you form along the way; in other words, it begins with a community. I vividly remember learning this lesson in an Education lecture. The class was explicitly instructed to treat everyone with kindness, respect, and professionalism. In the school system, this included secretaries, custodians, mentor teachers, colleagues, and — most importantly — students. Every student wants to be part of an environment that is supportive, respectful, and engaging. Now, as an educator, I strive to create a community built on positive, meaningful relationships, common goals, and strong support. McDaniel has taught me to lean into a community.
In addition to establishing a new community in my classroom and school, I have continued to nurture the community I formed while an undergraduate student. One of my best friends today was my first-year roommate, I had the honor of being in another friend’s wedding, and I am always happy to run into former professors.
I encourage you, reader, to Keep Climbing by making meaningful relationships, developing positive influences, and leaning into your community. Doing so is a step toward making the place you’re in feel like home.
Interested in writing about how the Hill influenced your life beyond graduation? Email ocm@mcdaniel.edu with your column idea!
