Education Student Spotlight: Regina Stankiewicz

Before coming to Hardin-Simmons University, Houston native Regina Stankiewicz ’23 called herself introverted and shy.  

“It would take me months to open up and socialize,” she shared. “Through the help of students and faculty at HSU, who have pushed me above and beyond, I am now able to step out of my comfort zone regardless of the situation.” 

As a secondary English education major, Regina has worked through a variety of courses within the English and education departments. She hopes to use the skills she has learned in these classes to succeed as a middle school English and language arts teacher in the near future. 

I’ve always loved helping people and find joy in watching others succeed in areas they never thought possible. Becoming an educator will allow me to use my academic talents and help cultivate new skills in students who might not have thought they were capable otherwise. 

Her classes have been impactful because she feels seen and encouraged. Regina shared that her advisor, Associate Professor of English Dr. Laura Pogue, intentionally leads her to succeed by helping her take the necessary steps towards becoming an educator. Dr. Traci Thompson, Department Head and Professor of English, encourages Regina’s writing while pushing her to showcase her skills as best as she can. Dr. Renee Collins, Associate Dean of the Irvin School of Education, has shown Regina that empathy for students does not stop in the classroom. 

Dr. Laura Pogue

“I love how the professors are so kind and genuinely want to see me succeed. I know I can talk to them to have my questions or doubts answered,” she stated. “I feel prepared to take the multiple tests that are needed in order to get my teaching certificate because of the energy each professor pours into their lessons to help me excel in the teaching field.” 

Beyond her work in the classroom, Regina enjoys time on campus at Delta events, HGT and Gamma Beta Phi meetings, or pouring into others through her role as both a First-Year Mentor and Ace Writing Center tutor. 

“I am so happy to be a part of a godly community that is challenging me to grow and better myself before I go shape the minds of the future,” shared Regina.