Sophia Thornburg

Journey to GMercyU

Sophia Thornburg graduated from Upper Dublin High School in 2018, and attended Montgomery County Community College (MCCC).

While in her last semester at MCCC, Sophia attended a Zoom session where she met administrators from various colleges, and GMercyU was one of them.

“They talked about the environment of the school and how small the classes were. Personally, I like smaller classes because, as a hearing-impaired student, it is much easier to hear with less distractions when the classes are smaller,” shared Sophia. “Also, needing some accommodations, I felt that I could receive additional help from my professors when the classes were smaller.”

Shortly after the information session, Sophia visited campus for Open House and had the opportunity to tour campus.

The tour guides were very enthusiastic and genuine about their love for the school and the speakers spoke about the amazing opportunities GMercyU had to offer. I knew that day that I wanted to be part of that environment and that GMercyU would provide me with a great education, leading me on the right path.

Transferring to GMercyU

After earning her associate’s degree at MCCC, Sophia took a semester off to research colleges that would be a great fit for her to continue her college education. During this time, she worked a local preschool to continue gaining experience in the teaching field.

“By the time I finished at MCCC, and after attending the college visit day, I knew that GMercyU was the one. When applying, I did not hesitate or second guess myself. I knew that I wanted to attend GMercyU for many reasons, but also the school was close to home and I would still be able to work. After about a month or two, I was so excited to receive my acceptance letter in the mail. I couldn’t wait to get started,” shared Sophia.

Why Education?

Sophia chose Early Childhood Education and Special Education due to the many opportunities she’s had working with children. She’s volunteered at her church’s PREP classes, took child development courses in high school, and currently works in the babysitting department at the local YMCA.

“All of these amazing opportunities have led me to find my love for children and my educational journey,” said Sophia.

Another reason she’s chosen this path is her personal experience in special education programs. From preschool to now, her teachers have always been there to support her academically and personally.

Special Education for me is about allowing children who are struggling achieve on their own terms, using their developmental skills and strengths to lead us together as a team to help them achieve. Having a teacher who will advocate for them, who will give them a safe place to learn, and who will challenge them to be better than they ever though they could be, is what I hope to become.

Experience in the School of Education

“I can honestly say that Gwynedd Mercy University has given me a great educational experience. I was welcomed by so many amazing staff members and was able to build relationships with fellow students and the education professors in the department,” shared Sophia. “Another thing that I really liked at GMercyU is that you are placed in schools right away to gain experience being out in the field.”

One faculty member that stands out is Dr. Deb Schadler, Sophia’s professor and academic advisor. Since day one, Dr. Schadler has helped Sophia have a smooth transition into the program and provided insightful information on the program itself, opportunities to take advantage of, and the classes. Sophia has taken two special education classes with Dr. Schadler so far.

“She spoke about her personal experiences in special education, and this was one of the things that I enjoyed most when sitting in her classroom. She made me realize that special education is more than just being a teacher. It is being inventive, inspiring, devoted, challenging, and also an advocate and role model,” Sophia shared.

Teacher Apprentice Program (TAP)

One of Sophia’s biggest takeaways so far is the Teacher Apprentice Program (TAP) which allows students to get into the classroom almost immediately to gain experience.

I have had actual hands-on experience observing what it is like in a classroom and how the teachers that I have observed work with their students. I have learned that you need to have patience and learn from your students’ needs, struggles, and most of all their strengths.

Involvement on Campus

As a member of the Education Outreach Club, Sophia has attended multiple Professional Development Conferences where she listened to teacher panels and alumni share their stories. Teachers on the panel ranged from pre-k to high school, and they shared their strategies and provided their input based on their experience in the classroom.

“I have learned a lot from the alumni and I am glad professional development conferences are offered in the education department,” Sophia said.

Post-Graduation Plans

After graduating from GMercyU, Sophia hopes to get a job at a local elementary school. Specifically, she’d love to be a kindergarten, first-grade, or special education teacher.