Growing in Faith, Leadership and Education at UA Wayne

We met up with PITP student Delaina Demiter and asked her to tell us about her first-year experience at UA Wayne:

What brought you to the UA Wayne campus and what has your college experience been like so far?

My educational journey has been shaped by my desire to continue learning while staying close to home and being part of a supportive academic environment. Choosing UA Wayne has allowed me to pursue my degree in a setting that offers smaller class sizes and more personal connections with professors, which is something I really value. One of the most meaningful parts of my college experience has been having the opportunity to grow in my faith by running a Christian Bible study. Leading a Bible study has strengthened my leadership skills, deepened my understanding of Scripture, and allowed me to build encouraging relationships with others on campus. It has helped me grow spiritually while also learning how to support and guide others in their faith journeys.

What made you choose your specific degree program or major of interest at UA?

I chose Primary Education as my major at The University of Akron because I have always felt called to work with young children and make a positive impact in their lives. I believe the early elementary years are important for building strong academic and social foundations. I want to create a supportive classroom where students feel encouraged, confident, and excited to learn. I enjoy learning about child development, teaching strategies, and how to create engaging lesson plans. I also appreciate the hands-on classroom experiences that help me build confidence and real-world skills as a future teacher.

What do you love most about UA Wayne?

The close-knit and welcoming atmosphere. The smaller campus makes it easy to build connections with professors and other students, and it feels more personal and supportive. My favorite places on campus are the library because it’s quiet and a great place to focus on studying, and the student lounge areas where I can relax or spend time with friends between classes. I appreciate how comfortable and friendly the campus environment feels overall.

What has surprised you in the best way about your experience at UA Wayne?

I didn’t expect to have such personal connections with my instructors, but they genuinely care about student success and are always willing to help. The welcoming campus environment and strong sense of community have also made my college experience even more positive than I imagined.

How is UA preparing you to be successful in the future?

Learning about child development, I’m building the skills I need to be an effective teacher. The supportive professors and smaller class sizes have also helped me grow in confidence, leadership, and communication—skills that will benefit me throughout my career.