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Why Nicole chose Rider

Nicole visited Rider at the urging of her mother, who had discovered Rider was the only college in New Jersey offering a business education program. But, as soon as she stepped onto campus, Nicole says, “I fell in love with Rider instantly. Then, I met Dr. Michael Curran and that sealed the deal. He explained all the advantages offered to education majors, like hands-on opportunities and field experiences, and he had such a passion for teaching. That is something he passed on to me.”

Rider's impact on Nicole's career

Starting in her sophomore year, Nicole began getting hands-on experience in a middle school. By the time she graduated, she had worked at two high schools and mentored elementary students in Trenton in starting and running a business through Rider’s Minding Our Business program. Nicole had three job offers and was hired just a month after graduating. “At my job interviews, I had so much confidence. That’s because I already had three years of classroom experience. I felt so prepared.”

Continued success

After a year teaching at Parsippany Hills High School, Nicole went to work at Freehold High School in Freehold, NJ, where she teaches financial literacy and sports and entertainment marketing. She also serves as Sophomore Class advisor and Business Team Challenge advisor. Nicole received her master's degree in Educational ​Leadership and ​Administration at the University of Scranton in 20​16 and has returned to Rider to pursue her Doctorate in Educational Leadership. “Rider prepared me to be the teacher I am today. I love teaching and I’m having a positive impact on students. I’m teaching them real-world skills — life skills they can use to make good choices. I’m exactly where I want to be.”