When Dariyelle Norris transferred to Florida A&M University (FAMU) in 2023, she sought a career in teaching but was unsure of her path. Now, as she prepares to graduate with a degree in elementary education, Norris reflects on the development and sense of purpose she found at FAMU.
Norris plans to pursue a master’s degree in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). Her interest in this field developed after taking an ESOL course taught by Rebecca Blankenship, Ph.D., associate professor and program director in the College of Education. “Taking her class opened my eyes,” Norris said. “I knew I wanted to teach English, but I didn’t know how to get there. With her guidance, I was able to understand the steps, what schools to apply to and why I wanted to pursue ESOL.”
Transferring presented some uncertainty for Norris. She said the university community provided support that helped ease her transition. “The process was a little scary, but worth it — especially when you are coming to the No. 1 HBCU,” she said. “My mentors and friends helped guide me. They motivated me, supported me and made the experience easier.”
She advised other transfer students to engage with campus life early and described finding her place through theatre activities and participation in the Teacher Lounge organization.
“FAMU is about community,” she said. “You gain so much when you put yourself out there.”
A pivotal experience for Norris occurred during summer 2024 when she participated in a study abroad program through FAMU’s College of Education partnership with an institution in Grafing, Germany. There, she worked with preschool children, developed lesson plans and observed classroom practices distinct from those at home.
“Studying abroad was amazing,” Norris said. “I made lifelong friends, connected with educators and saw the differences in how students are taught. It gave me hands-on experience, and it was affordable. I only paid about $1,500 and even received money back.”
Norris maintains contact with colleagues from Germany and intends to return overseas after graduate school to teach internationally.
Looking ahead, Norris will take certification exams for teaching English learners while applying for ESOL master’s programs. She also plans to work in ABA therapy settings supporting children with disabilities.
