Ava Laufersky
Major: Elementary Education, Minor: Special Education
Educational Liaison at Riley Children’s Hospital 

What is your current position and how did Butler help you build the skills you use now?
I am an Educational Liaison at Riley Children’s Hospital. In this role, I tutor patients to help them stay on track with their schoolwork and communicate with schools regarding attendance, academic plans, and additional support for students returning to school. I also collaborate with medical teams to discuss patient care and how a diagnosis may impact a student’s educational plan.

Butler has taught me many valuable skills that I use daily when working with patients, families, and medical teams. Through the guidance of my professors, I developed strong professionalism. My practicum experience strengthened my compassion, and my student teaching expanded my knowledge of educational laws and deepened my understanding of curriculum.

Looking at where you are today, how did Butler help shape that path?
I would not be where I am today without the incredible professors in the College of Education who believed in me. Professor Theresa Meyer provided unwavering support, both professionally and personally, that helped me get to where I am today. She introduced me to the role of a hospital teacher and guided me through the application process. She was my cheerleader during student teaching and continues to check in with me even after graduation.

What’s something you discovered about yourself while you were here?  
At Butler, I discovered I am more capable than I realized. During student teaching, I balanced full days in the classroom, night classes, the licensing test, and remaining an active member in student organizations.  Although it was a very busy time, the experience strengthened my time management skills and taught me how to care for myself both personally and professionally.

Looking back, what experience at Butler ended up being more influential than you realized at the time?
Meeting my best friends! I have found some of the most amazing people at Butler, friends I know I will stay connected with for many years. I never expected that sitting next to someone in class could turn into a lasting friendship. I didn’t know that joining Young Life would give me such an incredible community. I didn’t know my professors would support me so personally. Looking back, I can truly say it’s the people who make Butler feel like home.

What are your future career goals?
In the future, I would like to go back to graduate school for school administration or school counseling. I always knew I wanted to work in education at a higher level, but now, after working with school administrators and counselors across the state, I have seen firsthand the importance of strong leadership in schools.

What advice would you give a prospective student who’s considering Butler?
My advice is to get involved in student organizations! They are a great way to meet people who will help you grow both personally and professionally in your chosen career. It may feel scary at first, but being part of student organizations has given me some of my best memories at Butler.