Melissa Baus arrived at West Virginia University as a freshman with a few ideas, but no concrete plan for college.
“I was not quite sure what I wanted my major to be,” Baus said, “I knew I was very sports orientated and liked the field of teaching so I decided to enter into the PETE program.”
Baus fell in love with the faculty and curriculum. She credits the professor’s emphasize on the importance of physical education and how relatable their messages are to students. Students in the Physical Education Teaching Education program learn a great deal of information on adaptive physical education. Baus says she currently applies this knowledge obtained in her undergrad and master’s courses in her daily teaching.
“I have also learned many great ideas and techniques to teach different sports like volleyball, basketball and soccer that help to reach all learners and their abilities.” Baus said.
Baus believes that the PETE program at WVU is one that’s unique and completely prepares students in all aspects. WVU’s exceptional PETE program throws students right into action.
“The second you get accepted into the program you are instantly immersed into teaching.” Baus said.
In similar programs at other colleges and universities, students aren’t exposed to the hands-on experience as a student teacher until their senior year.
“This was important to me for two main reasons,” Baus explained, “It helped me decide that I did indeed love teaching and it also helped me start growing and getting better at teaching right away.”
“The WVU PETE program makes sure to involve us into all aspects of teaching from content knowledge to professional development so that when you complete the program you are immediately ready to get out into the real world and will have no surprises,” she added.
Baus is now pursing her masters in physical education and health promotion. Currently, she works as a second and third grade physical education teacher at Mylan Park Elementary School. Baus is also a certified personal trainer for the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, American Red Cross Certified in CPR and First Aid and is an American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor in the Morgantown area.