Commencement Spotlight: Caleb Thurmon is ready to educate the next generation
![UTSA student Caleb Thurmon is gearing up to change minds and hearts in the classroom.](http://www.utsa.edu/today/images/thurmon340.jpg)
UTSA student Caleb Thurmon is gearing up to change minds and hearts in the classroom.
(May 8, 2017) -- Meet Caleb Thurmon. This graduating Roadrunner is ready to make a positive difference as an inspiring teacher.
Born in Noonday, Texas, a town with less than 1,000 people roughly 15 minutes outside of Tyler, Thurmon, 22, is the youngest of six children.
"Not many people hear about Noonday," Thurmon said. "It's one of those towns you can just drive right through and you're out before you know it."
Thurmon and three of his siblings were raised mostly by his father. They moved around a lot due to his father's work in the oil field industry.
In 2012, Thurmon enrolled at UTSA as an interdisciplinary learning and teaching major, but he struggled financially as the third of his siblings to enroll in college.
"Paying for college was a challenge," said Thurmon, who took out loans and worked while he was a student. "Financially, my father did the best he could, and he provided as much as he was able. He was a great man. It wasn't easy to get all the money together."
The UTSA undergraduate was determined to succeed, though, following in the footsteps of his stepfather and other inspiring role models he had met in the classroom.
"In school, I had teachers who were just amazing, doing everything they could to help," said Thurmon. "They were invested in you. They wanted to make sure your future was bright. I was inspired by them."
On the flip side, Thurmon recalls having a few teachers who were less than satisfactory.
"When it comes to our future generations, teachers should always try to help them be the best they can be as members of society," Thurmon said. "You don't become a teacher to be paid. You become a teacher for the kids – to help them be successful and to make sure they're on the right track in life."
Thurmon hit the books immediately at UTSA. The rigors of UTSA's interdisciplinary teaching and learning program, he said, were exactly what he needed to become a skilled educator.
Since the beginning of the spring semester, Thurmon's been working as a student teacher at Hobby Middle School in Northside Independent School District, where he teaches history to eighth graders. That practical experience has given him greater insight into effective teaching strategies. It's also taught him how to best engage his students.
"Being at UTSA has been the greatest blessing in my life," said Thurmon. "Knowing that you can impact a student's life and be someone that they will remember as a positive influence—that's got to be one of the best feelings."
Thurmon is excited to graduate and move on to the next stage of his career. His biggest supporter and motivation is his wife, who he met at UTSA.
"My wife has helped me to do and accomplish so much," Thurmon said. "I'm so proud to graduate from UTSA. I know I couldn't have done this without her love and support."
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Learn more about the UTSA Department of Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching.
Learn more about the UTSA College of Education and Human Development.
Learn more about UTSA Commencement.
Meet other Spring 2017 graduates.
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Events
The Roadrunner Pantry/Whataburger Resource Room has joined efforts with the campus community for the Move-In Market! Come shop for some great items for your room or apartment to get you started and set up for success. The best part about it--everything is free! Bring your UTSA student ID to receive shopping credits.
Student Union Annex (BK Lot 5 next to Campus Garden)UTSA parents and family members are invited for appetizers and drinks to meet other Roadrunner families following Move-In Week. Students are encouraged to attend Comedy Night and Late Night at the Rec, while family members celebrate their student’s next chapter.
Willie's Roadhouse, 4051 N Loop 1604 W, San Antonio, TX 78257Late Night at the Rec features an evening of fun, games, giveaways, and excitement. It's also a great way to learn about the facilities, recreation programs, and wellness services offered at the Main and Downtown campuses.
Campus Rec Center, Main CampusCome show your Roadrunner Spirit by joining our very own Rowdy, The Spirit of San Antonio Marching Band (SOSA), your fellow students, as we light the Monument at our Main Campus entrance at the stroke of midnight to mark the start of a new academic year.
Main CampusAnnual Giving will host a First Day of School celebration to welcome students back to campus. We will have giveaways and photo opportunities.
Sombrilla PlazaA sweet start to the Semester. Join the University College to customize your own sugar cookie while enjoying connecting with other UTSA students.
Airport Lounge (SU 2.02.00D,) Student Union, Main CampusJoin us for a tabling event with the UTS Bold Careers Program! Start the academic year off right with our team to discuss experiential learning and career development.
In front of the Rowdy Campus Store