Karina Stripe
Get to know Karina
- Major: Early childhood education
- Class: Sophomore
- Hometown: Albert Lea, Minnesota
- Career goal: Early childhood educator
- Clubs/activities: Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) Club
- Awards/honors: Dean’s List fall 2016, spring 2017, fall 2017
- Favorite place on campus: Any corner in Lagomarcino Hall
- Most influential ISU mentor: Pat Carlson
- Favorite class: Any SP ED class with Pat Carlson
- Why Iowa State: Family attended, at-home atmosphere, well-known early childhood education program, special education option
Karina Stripe experiences the joys of early childhood education
Growing up, Iowa State University felt like home to Karina due to family members who were once students themselves. Although their past helped her choose Iowa State, she already knew what she wanted her future major to be.
“Since I was in the second grade, I knew I wanted to become a teacher one day,” Karina said. “I would come home from elementary school and play school in my bedroom until it was dinner time.”
Since then, her interest in education has only grown. Karina transitioned from playing school in her room to volunteering in the classroom. When it came time to pick a college, the unified major is what set Iowa State apart from the rest.
“When I discovered that the early childhood education program here included special education, I knew it was the right choice,” Karina said. “I enjoy going to class because I’m learning about things I’m passionate about and will be able to use in my future career.”
However, her favorite learning opportunity comes from the hands on experience in the Child Development Laboratory School.
“Four out of the five days of week, I’m working one-on-one with children,” Karina said. “You can read a textbook all day, but actually being in the classroom gives you experience.”
While she prepares for her future career, Karina is taking advantage of every opportunity she can.
“I wish I would have known before coming to Iowa State that college is not always easy, but it is worth it,” Karina said.
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