Jenna Larsen’s path to becoming an educator took shape early. Growing up in Ramsey, Minn., she was often the one volunteering to be the teacher while playing with friends, drawn to a future where she could be creative, helpful, and fully herself. She also remembers sitting beside her younger brother, helping him learn how to read — moments that quietly sparked her passion for teaching.
Jenna chose Winona State University specifically for the Elementary Education program at the Rochester campus, where the hybrid structure allowed her to begin field experiences early.
“I really liked how it was structured, with a mix of online classes and in-person field experiences in classrooms early within the program. Because of the setup, I was able to get into classrooms early on, which helped confirm that pursuing Elementary Education was the right path for me.”
Learning to engage with feedback, new ideas, and different perspectives became central to her growth as an educator, allowing her to reflect, step outside her comfort zone, and continuously improve.
“It challenged me in ways I did not expect but also gave me the support that I needed to succeed,” she said.
Community became the heartbeat of Jenna’s experience, and her professors and classmates became a support system that carried her through the demands of student teaching. Their encouragement helped her rise to the high expectations set by her mentors.
“I knew that whatever assignment I was tackling, I was not alone – I had support. Whether it was from my cohort members or my professors, there was truly a sense of community.”
Jenna offers future Warriors advice rooted in self-compassion and connection: “Give yourself grace. No one is perfect, and no one expects you to be. Build relationships with your classmates, whether it’s through shared interests, helping each other with assignments, or bonding over coffee. Those small moments add up, and before you know it, they become your extended support system.”
As she prepares to graduate with her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Jenna looks forward to beginning her teaching career and leading a classroom of her own. She will start her master’s degree this summer and is eager to continue learning, while also making time to relax and recharge at the cabin before this next chapter begins.
