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Headland, Alabama, resident Jeremiah Hall and his family were among the first guests to arrive Monday at Auburn University’s College of Education Fall Preview Day. 

“I’m really excited to see everything because Auburn is my number one option,” said Hall, a high school senior with a strong interest in the college’s math education program. “I’m looking forward to learning more about the College of Education and what I’ll be doing here as a student.”

With plans to follow in his parents’ footsteps in becoming a teacher, Hall was among 65 students who attended the annual event inside Auburn’s Harold D. Melton Student Center. Faculty, staff and advisors were on hand from the college’s Department of Curriculum and Teaching, Department of Special Education, Rehabilitation and Counseling as well as its School of Kinesiology. 

Students from 12 states perused tables where representatives offered informational materials and the opportunity for one-on-one conversations. The event also included a formal presentation in which each department head and the college’s dean offered remarks. 

“When I talk to students in our college, they tell me that the most meaningful parts of their experience are found in the relationships they build with faculty and the hands-on learning opportunities they have outside of the classroom,” said Jeffrey Fairbrother, dean of the College of Education and Wayne T. Smith Distinguished Professor, in addressing the day’s crowd of students and parents. “We care about students and want them to succeed.”

Fairbrother noted that Auburn’s College of Education has a teacher certification eligibility rate of more than 95%, and the college’s kinesiology programs rank among the best in the nation. He also touted a new Doctor of Physical Therapy program that will admit students in 2025 and a new College of Education building being constructed at the corner of Samford Avenue and Duncan Drive that’s slated to open to students in fall 2025.

In addition to college-specific resources, representatives from groups around campus, such as housing, admissions, study abroad and more, were present to provide additional information. 

“Preview Days are the best opportunity for interested students to learn more about all things College of Education,” said Student Services Coordinator David Shamp. “Representatives from our college and the university are able to provide a personalized informational experience for those interested in careers in education and allied health.”

As part of the event, attendees also heard from a panel of the college’s current students, faculty and alumni. Shamp crafted specialized questions for the panel before opening the floor to questions from the audience. 

“With all the information that potential students are getting, it’s really important for them to see the college from an actual student’s perspective,” said Laney Roe, president of the College of Education’s Student Ambassador program. “It’s so much fun to share about my Auburn experience and offer advice to those looking to attend our college.”

Attendee Lexi Shimeall said she was so glad she participated in the event, noting that “the preview helped solidify my decision to enroll.” 

Following the morning’s informational portion, attendees were released for department visits and optional campus tours, including that of the kinesiology building. They also had the opportunity to explore the College of Education’s new building through virtual reality headsets. 

For those who missed Fall Preview Day and are interested in learning more about the College of Education, a Spring Preview Day will be offered next semester on Monday, Feb. 17. Continue to check the College of Education event calendar for details on that event as more information will be forthcoming.