Eric Nielsen didn’t begin his college journey with a plan to become a teacher. A 2020 graduate of Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) in public relations, Nielsen returned to his hometown of Chicago to begin his career—only to find it wasn’t the right fit.
“I found out quickly I wanted more out of my career and in life,” Nielsen said. “I did a lot of soul searching. Teaching had always been in the back of my mind—especially special education. I grew up with a sister who had a learning disability and cousins who went through special education, so I was always around it.”
That calling led him back to SEMO to pursue a degree in special education. This spring, Nielsen completed his student teaching at West Lane Elementary in Jackson, Missouri, under the mentorship of teacher Tony Bono, an experience he describes as “lucky”—not only for the school placement, but for the personal connection they shared. 
“Mr. Bono had a very similar experience to me—he graduated once, came back to school, and pursued his teaching degree,” Nielsen said. “It was nice to have somebody who understood what I was going through—even during the struggles. That connection sold me on the district.”
Early in his student teaching assignment, Nielsen faced a medical issue that could have disrupted his timeline to graduation. But the support he received from SEMO’s Office of Field Experiences and faculty members made all the difference.
“I emailed the office, and the first thing they said was, ‘We’re going to do whatever it takes to make you successful,’” Nielsen said. “Dr. Rodney Pensel even came to my placement and showed me so much empathy. We made a plan that allowed me to prioritize my health and still complete my student teaching.”
Pensel, director of field experiences in the Department of Educator Preparation, said Nielsen left a lasting impression on faculty during his time in the program.
“Eric was a very mature student and displayed a great deal of drive and tenacity to finish the program, even after a difficult diagnosis,” Pensel said. “Tenacity, flexibility and willingness to do what is needed are skills that are extremely valuable in education. As an educator, you will encounter problems—whether it's yourself, a coworker, or a student. Possessing the ability to ‘stay the course’ is invaluable.”
Nielsen said the level of care he received was unlike anything he expected.
“I had professors I didn’t even have in class anymore checking in on me. Dr. Pensel connected me with people in the registrar’s office to make sure I stayed on track to graduate. SEMO went above and beyond. They cared about me more than just as a student—they cared about my well-being. The reassurance I received from SEMO and the Jackson School District was something that really helped me persevere through the semester and got me back to teaching as soon as possible.”
In the classroom, Nielsen says he’s found a version of himself he didn’t expect.
“Outside the classroom, I’m more introverted and quiet. But with my students, I feel like I can be my authentic self. I can have fun with them. I get to be myself—and that’s the best part of teaching. The kids have been the best medicine during all of this.”