ETSU's Clemmer College of Education guides teacher candidates through a three-event sequence, from mock interviews to a Classroom Launch Celebration, designed to build professional identity before graduation.
Between February and April, something shifts for East Tennessee State University’s future teachers.
They walked into the Future Educator Interview Summit in February nervous, clutching résumés, uncertain how to articulate their instructional philosophy.
By the time they reach the Classroom Launch Celebration on April 2, they'll be carrying boxes of supplies, laughing with peers and talking about "my future classroom" with a confidence that wasn't there before.
What happens in those few months? Three carefully designed events that work together to move candidates from learning about teaching to living the profession.
"We don't just prepare students to pass tests or complete student teaching," said Dr. Janna Scarborough, dean of the Clemmer College of Education and Human Development. "We prepare high-quality educators to walk into a classroom on day one and know they belong there not as students, but as professionals."
The progression begins with pressure
The Future Educator Interview Summit in February placed candidates in authentic interview situations with regional administrators. The interviews were formative, not evaluative. No hiring decisions were made. But the pressure was real.
Candidates had to articulate their teaching philosophy, respond to scenario-based questions, and receive direct feedback from the professionals who will one day hire them.
"This is where theory meets reality," said Dr. Jamie Price, chair of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction. "Candidates realize they need to clearly explain not just what they'll teach, but why they make important instructional decisions. That's a turning point."
Understanding the whole child
In March, the Whole Child Summit shifted focus. Candidates heard from teachers, principals, counselors and staff about keeping students safe and well. They engaged with local organizations supporting student well-being.
The message: Teaching isn't isolated work. It's part of a larger network committed to student success. Candidates left this event understanding more about community resources that would support their work in the classroom.
Launching with celebration and supplies
The Classroom Launch Celebration on April 2 brings it all together. Candidates will receive free classroom supplies, engage with community partners, participate in interactive activities, hear from guest speakers and celebrate with peers.
By this point, they're not just imagining their future classrooms. They're planning them.
"These experiences collectively help candidates begin living the profession before graduation," Price said. "They stop talking like students and start talking like teachers. That shift in identity and confidence is visible."
Regional partnerships make the difference
By engaging directly with administrators and educators, candidates recognize they're entering a profession that's collaborative, community-based and deeply connected to the region ETSU serves.
“We are grateful to our community agencies and business partners for their ongoing support,” Scarborough said. “Of course, none of this works without regional school leaders volunteering their time.”
Start your ETSU journey
Apply to ETSU: Start your journey to becoming a teacher.
Explore Clemmer College: Learn more about ETSU’s teacher preparation programs.
Discover hands-on learning: See how ETSU students gain real-world experience across disciplines.
