MSU/UCM enables student to become teacher
Megan Rice, first grade teacher at Dennis Wooton Elementary School in Perry County, was able to get the education she needed through the University Center of the Mountains (UCM) and recommends others to utilize their services.
“I think the services provided by UCM were excellent. I would recommend UCM to anyone. The teachers and staff were instrumental in helping me achieve my degree,” said Rice.
“The UCM is a wonderful example of a partnership at its best, serving the people of this region by bringing select four-year degrees to the area,” said Deronda Mobelini, UCM director.
“Through the collaborative efforts of Eastern Kentucky University, Morehead State University, Midway College, Lindsey Wilson College, Kentucky State University, University of the Cumberlands, Hazard Community and Technical College (HCTC) and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, more than 500 Eastern Kentuckians have earned bachelor’s degrees and/or a master’s degree since the UCM opened in Fall 2003.”
Rice graduated from Morehead State University in May 2008. She started at HCTC then went to Morehead State through UCM. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Elementary Education (P-5) with a component in mathematics and graduated Summa Cum Laude.
“I wanted to become a teacher to give each and every child the opportunity to learn and be successful. I want to influence the lives of my students. I want to make a difference in their lives,” said the 1997 Hazard High School graduate.
She said she wouldn’t change anything about her college experience, except starting sooner.
“Some of my best memories are meeting people who I will remain friends with forever, getting to know the wonderful staff at HCTC because all of them were so helpful, and getting the quality education I received that helped me become a teacher,” said Rice.
Married to Jon Rice, she is the daughter of Lou Ella and Ronnie Farler.
The UCM administrative offices are located on the Hazard Campus of HCTC.
Additional information about MSU’s educational degrees and programs is available by contacting Dr. Will Kayatin, director of MSU at Jackson, locally at (606) 666-2800 or toll free at (800) 729-5225.
Posted: 7-8-09
