Hailey McDonnell

Story Posted: Spring 2024

My favorite part about GMercyU is the small community feel. I would recommend GMercyU because of the many opportunities, engagement, small community feel, and, of course, the beauty of our campus.

Coming to GMercyU

Hailey McDonnell graduated from New Foundations Charter School in Philadelphia, Pa. During her senior year, Hailey came to campus for Accepted Students Day.

“Once I heard the wonderful things about the Education program, the student life, the opportunities to grow and learn, and the experiences of past students, I knew I wanted to be a GMercyU graduate one day,” Hailey said.

Experience in Education

Hailey is working towards a dual bachelor’s degree in Education and Special Education.

I chose this dual major because I have always had a passion to help others. My dream is to take what GMercyU has given me and use it to make sure each child who enters my classroom is seen, heard, cared for, excited to learn, and challenged each day to successful. I wish to help every child reach their full potential and to be a role model in their lives.

Hailey has loved every minute of her time in the program and describes it as “amazing and engaging.”

“I have gained many opportunities, developed close, personal relationships with my professors, gained friends that will be in my life for years to come, and have been given the support I need to be able to be an effective teach and adult in society,” Hailey shared.

Of all her professors, Hailey wants to thank Professor Pierantozzi, Dr. Malfi, Dr. Schadler, and Professor Boyd for their guidance and support, both academically and personally. Their guidance has helped Hailey push forward during difficult times.

Within the program, Hailey completed the iPad Project with a 15-year-old student with Autism who could utilize Assistive Technology as a support. She chose to complete this project because of her interest in Autism Spectrum Disorder and the rewarding feeling of a support working for a child.

Student-Teaching

Hailey is in the midst of completing her student-teaching and has had three fieldwork experiences during her time in the program.

“My primary responsibilities during student-teaching are to use the Danielson Domains of Planning and Preparation, Instruction, Classroom Management, and Professionalism each day in order to fulfill my requirements and become the best educator I can be,” Hailey said.

Through these experiences, Hailey has been offered job opportunities, including one as Johns Hopkins CTY, by building relationships with professors.

“My biggest takeaway is how this would not have been possible without GMercyU and the guidance I received during my time there,” shared Hailey.

Involvement on Campus

Hailey is current the Co-President of Best Buddies, an organization creating one-to-one friendships between a buddy and a student with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

“Through Best Buddies I have been given the opportunity to take what I have learned in class and put it into use in my community. Best Buddies GMercyU has also given me the opportunity to attend the Leadership Conference in July 2023,” Hailey said.

Post-Graduation Plans

Hailey is set to graduate in May 2024 with her Bachelor of Science in Early Education and Special Education. Her goal is to begin working in her own classroom in a Special Education Environment and plans to attend graduate school to earn her Master’s in Counseling.