Julie Patrick

Name: Julie Patrick
Class Year: 2006
Hometown: Warminster, PA
Major: Elementary Education and Political Science
Campus Activities, Organizations, Programs:
- Phi Sigma Sigma Sorority- Past Vice President and Past President
- Intramural soccer
- Student Ambassador
- Campus Tour Guide
- Student Admission Representative
- Open House Speaker
Honors at Rider:
- Kappa Delta Pi- Education Honors Fraternity
- Pi Sigma Alpha- Political Science Honors Fraternity
- Omicron Delta Kappa- National Leadership Honors Fraternity
- Dean’s list
Why did you choose Rider? I chose Rider because of its proximity to my home and the great surrounding area. I wanted a school that was close enough to go home but, at the same time, was far enough away that I could be independent. After attending an Open House at Rider, and meeting actual students and hearing how much they enjoyed the University and everything Rider had to offer, I knew I wanted that same kind of experience for myself.
What do you like about Rider? Rider gives you every opportunity to have hands on experiences to further your learning. Within the education department, you get the normal classroom experience, while getting the chance to put what you are learning to work in an actual classroom. It is such a great program, and being a student teacher, I now realize how much those previous experiences have prepared me for where I am today.
I enjoy the variety in the student body; there are so many different types of people that enjoying participating in various activities, that it is easy to find a group to call your own.
What is your favorite class, and why? Introduction to American Politics with Dr. Wallace was a great introductory level class and it appealed to both Political Science majors and students in other majors as well. Teaching Math with Dr. Bulgar was my favorite Education course. Growing up, I was never a strong math student, but this class not only taught me how to teach different math techniques to children, but also helped me understand math in a new and different way.
What person at Rider has had the most impact on you, and why? Dr. Wallace - As my Political Science advisor, he has given me the courage to take on new risks and challenge myself, both inside the classroom and out. Another important influence to me is Dr. McKool from the Education Department. She has always been such a supportive teacher, and was always there for me, even after I had her class. She never forgets a student that she has had in her class, and is there to help you with anything. It’s good to know that I have someone I can turn to for assistance even after I leave Rider University.
What are your career plans following graduation? After graduation, I will be looking for a job in the teaching world. Eventually, I would like to go back to school and get my law degree and work in educational law or reform.
