Alumni

English Single Subject Alumni

The English Single Subject Program at CSULB has trained many teachers who have challenged and inspired students. We are delighted that our talented alumni continue to be successful in making a positive impact in schools throughout California!

Below are a few examples of our alumni success stories.

Dhaline Hean

I received my B. A. degree in English from CSULB, but I gained pedagogical theories, skills, and knowledge in the credential program that prepared me to enter the professional field of teaching. In fact, I entered the field shortly before the completion of my student teaching, when I landed a full-time teaching position at a school within Long Beach USD. The timing couldn't have been better, because September was around the corner, and I was able to secure a position with a school district that I liked. Presently, I teach English to advanced ELL students at Jordan High School. Two of the rewarding aspects of my teaching position are the opportunity to interact and exchange ideas, opinions and viewpoints with students who are colorful, energetic, and gifted, and the opportunity to share my passion for and knowledge of literature with them. But, the most rewarding aspect of teaching is challenging and helping all students to grow intellectually by empowering them through critical literacy. CSULB and the credential program helped me reach my educational and professional goals.

Jannie Choi

Applying to the English Single Subject Program at CSULB was probably one of the best decisions I ever made. The program offered convenient class schedules and awesome teachers. More importantly, the administrators knew what they were doing, so I was in and out of the program in just a year and a half, as opposed to others I knew, who took four years to get their credential at other institutions. The classes at CSULB prepared me for what was to come in the real world of teaching because they covered all aspects of teaching, from classroom management to multicultural education. I am so glad that I went through CSULB to get my credential, and I highly recommend this program to anyone who is thinking about becoming a teacher!

Timothy M. Perez

Whenever any of my students ask me if Cal State Long Beach is a "good" school, I reply that it's a great school. I am that enthusiastic! The faculty at CSULB are open and approachable, and many instructors make students think beyond the classroom by using engaging techniques. I graduated with a B. A. in English (Creative Writing) in 1998 and an M. F. A. degree in Poetry in 2000, and completed a Single Subject Clear Credential in 2001.

Currently, I am working at El Rancho High School in Pico Rivera; I teach 9th and 10th grade English. I am also a Professional Development Team member, aiding administrators and instructional managers with understanding the needs and concerns of faculty. Recently, we attempted to incorporate an advisory period, as our school is serving many more inner-city students. We feel that it is necessary to reach our students through small communities of teachers and learners and to enhance the experience of those who often fall between the cracks of the educational system.

The English Single Subject Program has provided me with the tools and a few bags of tricks to assist in furthering the education of all students that cross me, both literally and figuratively.

Tim Perez is also a fine poet, and he has kindly agreed to allow us to post one of his pieces, "Cleaning Jose," on this site.

Last update: 3/16/06