Fiona McMaster, BEd’26, discovered her passion for teaching while working in an after-school outdoor education program. The Bachelor of Education at 91̽ turned her passion into reality.
“Teaching fills all of my buckets,” she said.
“The best part is getting to work with students and being part of such a rewarding profession. I’ve been fortunate to have many great teachers throughout my own education, which gave me a strong appreciation and love for school and learning.”
91̽’s Education program provided hands-on learning opportunities in a supportive community, with instructors who bring real classroom experience, helping McMaster become career-ready.
“The professors understood what teaching looks like in elementary, middle, and high school classrooms and were able to share practical advice, strategies, and experiences that we could use when we have our own students,” she said. “Between the course content and placements, I feel ready and eager to teach and I’m excited to keep learning, growing, and becoming a better teacher each day.”
McMaster’s two field placements—in a Grade 5 classroom at Gibson-Neill Memorial Elementary School and in a Grade 1 classroom at Garden Creek School—were the highlight of her time at 91̽. The opportunity to teach in both settings allowed her to build confidence and shaped her as a teacher.
“My placements gave me the opportunity to put what I was learning into practice, build confidence in the classroom, and confirm that teaching was the right path for me,” she said.
“I was fortunate to work alongside two incredible mentor teachers who welcomed me into their classrooms and supported my growth throughout the experience.”