Madison Pines ’23
Elementary Education major, Diverse Learners and Mild Intervention double minor
International English Teacher at Israel Outdoors Next

How did Butler prepare you for your career?
In the spring of 2022, I took a major risk that arguably changed the course of my entire life. During the spring of my junior year, I decided to study abroad. Living and learning in a foreign country exposed me to various teaching methods and viewpoints, fueling my desire to share my knowledge and cultural insights with students from around the world. This experience taught me important qualities such as adaptability, resilience, and cultural sensitivity. Driven by my love for teaching and my dedication to promoting global understanding and cooperation through education, my time abroad really helped me discover my true calling.

What skills or knowledge gained at Butler have been most useful in your career? 
The College of Education gave me invaluable knowledge and an incredible foundation for my journey as an international educator. The curriculum and dedicated faculty equipped me with the necessary pedagogical skills and a global perspective on education. The College’s emphasis on experiential learning and student teaching allowed me to practice my skills in real-world settings. We learned how to adapt our teaching methods and curriculum to reflect the diversity of our classrooms to create inclusive environments where students can thrive academically and emotionally.

My students in Israel require different support than my students in America, so I am constantly working to educate myself on the cultural components as well as their academic needs. Every day, I am actively using the skills I learned at Butler. I am bridging the cultural gap between Israel and America, fostering a community of empathy, and preparing students to become global citizens who appreciate and respect differences.

What is the most important thing you learned at Butler?
In Hebrew we say “Lizrom” or “go with the flow.” Very quickly, Butler taught me that in education, you need to be flexible. No matter how much you plan, there are always surprises. Being flexible means embracing various learning styles, tailoring teaching methods, and expecting the unexpected. Additionally, flexibility extends to adjusting your lesson plans to match student interests and the latest trends in education. Butler taught us that a flexible teacher creates a lively and engaging classroom atmosphere, fostering a positive learning experience for everyone. Ultimately, flexibility in teaching centers around prioritizing students’ needs and adjusting your approach to meet those needs effectively.

What advice do you have for students who are interested in pursuing a career in this field?
The biggest risks also have the largest rewards. The idea of moving abroad is daunting and intimidating, but it’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about the world and yourself. I’m learning a different language, a different school structure, and a different way of life. As educators, we strive to provide the highest quality of education to our students. One way we do so is by learning about our student’s homes and cultures. What better classroom to explore this notion rather than the world?