Guilford caught the eye of Kylee Duarte ’24 at a college showcase in California. Though she was there to further acquaint herself with schools where she could continue her softball career and connect with those recruiting her, the small liberal arts college in North Carolina proved special.
“From meeting the assistant coach, I had such a strong connection,” Kylee recalls.
Later, when she visited the campus, Kylee was completely taken with Guilford and committed to playing softball for the Quakers.
“Being part of the softball team has given me a second family. Playing a sport at the college level has always been a dream of mine, and I finally did it,” Kylee says. “As team captain, I can develop more leadership skills that I could use on and off the field. Also, being part of the athletic program allowed me to connect with all the different sports on campus, creating a bigger community for me.”
Extending a Helping Hand
The Education major with a minor in Psychology from Corona, Calif., has a way of finding and building community wherever she goes.
As the vice president of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, she helped run meetings, organize events and connect the student athletes on campus.
She sees her role as a residential advisor as a chance to be a resource for others.
“From developing more leadership skills to connecting with more students on campus to being someone that anyone can go to for help, being an RA on campus has given me opportunities that I would not be able to have,” she says.
Bright Future Ahead
Ever since grade school, Kylee has known she wanted to be a teacher.
“My first and fourth grade teachers were my role models growing up, and I wanted to be someone that students could look up as well,” she says. “I always enjoyed being around kids, and I love working with them. Seeing their smile is the best reward I could get.”
After graduation, Kylee has her sights set on a graduate degree in education.
“If I continue down that path, I would one day want to be a principal of a school,” she says. “If I decide to start looking for a job, in would want to have my own classroom, hopefully first grade.”
As part of her involvement in the Honors Program, Kylee is currently working on her senior thesis on education, which will include an element of psychology as well. She appreciates being in the Honors Program because she says it is preparing her well for life after Guilford. Kylee also credits professors David Hildreth and Anna Pennell for getting her ready for student teaching.
She shared some advice for other Education majors and all her fellow students.
“Always do your work on time and remember why you wanted to be a teacher. It is one of the noblest jobs that you can have,” Kylee says. “Look for opportunities that you may not think about. I had the opportunity for an internship at a summer camp in South Carolina, and two years later, I am now the director of the 4-H Summer Camp at Clemson University. Also, remember to enjoy college, go to events, and jump out of your comfort zone. You are only in college once!”