Department of Education - Meet Natalie B. and Natalie J.

Hope College is preparing students to teach locally and globally.

Hope’s education program has inspired Natalie B. ’26 to travel abroad to teach students with emotional disabilities, while Natalie J. ’25 hopes to stay closer to home in Zeeland, Mich., by teaching kindergarten through 6th-grade students in West Michigan.

Both chose to study education because they recognize its power and have a deeply held desire to see all students succeed. “I strive for children of all abilities and backgrounds to feel empowered to succeed both in and outside of the classroom, said Natalie J. “I want to instill in my students the belief that they can reach their dreams because they can do hard things.”

Both students said they have been impressed by the well-known excellence of the education department. They have come to appreciate the level of real-world classroom access they’ve received. “During my freshman year, I was placed in a school. And although I had no idea what I was doing, my professors were very helpful, encouraging and reassuring,” shared Natalie B., who is from Chicago.

Natalie J. is spending her final semester at Hope working as a student teacher. “I spent my fall semester learning a variety of teaching strategies to meet the needs of all learners, ensuring that each student has the opportunity for a meaningful education,” she said.

Both students have found strong faculty mentors during their time at Hope. “Our professors really know you and always think about what is best for you and how to meet your needs,” Natalie B. explained. “One professor who has really impacted me is my advisor, Dr. Jane Finn. She has been very understanding and encouraging along the way.”

Natalie J. credits Professor Valerie Capel with much of her success. “Prof. Capel goes out of her way to support her students in any way she can, whether that's a hug, a prayer or a coffee date. Our professors truly practice what they teach and serve as excellent role models,” she shared.

Both students are thankful for the generosity of donors like you. Natalie B. sees the impact of your gifts extending past Hope and into communities. “Because of your support,” she explained, “many of the dreams and needs of college students are happening. Your support helps us give and pour into communities around us. It does not just go and stay in one place, it expands through borders and communities.”

Your gifts to the education department start a domino effect that helps Hope professors, current students and future students of the world alike. Will you leave a lasting impact today?