Student Spotlight: Ellie Friedman (SRP '24)
Ellie Friedman is graduating this spring with a degree in social relations and policy. Friedman has been active during her four years in James Madison College, serving as a TA for MC201 and a writing consultant in the JMC Writing Center. Additionally, Friedman, who is a member of the MSU Honors College and a recipient of the prestigious Board of Trustees Award, has participated in undergraduate research since her first year. Next year, Friedman will complete a one-year student teaching internship as she works towards completing her teaching certification in social studies and English.
Why did you decide to audition for the role of Commencement speaker?
I am so honored to represent my class and excited that we will finally be in the same place, in-person, for the first time! Though the opportunity initially seemed out of my depth, it’s important to go for any opportunities and not be afraid of rejection. I enjoy writing, and this seemed like the perfect creative challenge. Plus, it’s a chance to speak to students about the sort of thing I’d want to hear.
I had to think about what a commencement speech looks like since I didn’t have a high school graduation. So, I took some time over spring break to reflect on my time here and write down what I thought I’d want to say to my peers, faculty, and audience members.
What do you believe is the central message of your speech and what do you want your classmates to take away?
My speech is structured largely around what I’ve said to first-year students I work with through the Writing Center and MC 201 as a TA. I have three go-to tips that I give to first-year students, and it turns out that these tips apply to both first-year students and to us as we graduate and are about to begin something new.
I want the audience, particularly my fellow graduates, to take away the idea of belonging. Regardless of our unconventional four years at Madison, we have all developed a unique and rich relationship with this place and its people. The Class of 2024 is full of relentlessly dedicated human beings anchored in our desire to make the world a better place. This desire looks different for all of us, and, luckily, every space needs more of JMC’s fiery, passionate, and collaborative ethos. I’m so excited to see what we do with it!
Why did you decide to pursue a career in education, and how long have you known this is the path you’d take?
I think I always knew I wanted to do something in education because I was intrigued by education policy and had fantastic teachers in high school, but it was in my first year in Madison, as I simultaneously took TE courses and began education research, that I figured out that I wanted to teach. Learning from JMC’s teaching-focused and student-centered faculty, though, has been the best teacher preparation!
I love how relational it is and feeling like I am making an impact. The interpersonal relationships are something that energizes me and I’m not sure I could get that in most other careers.
What’s been the highlight of your time in JMC and overall highlight as an MSU student?
Working in the Writing Center and as a TA for MC 201 as it has affirmed my interest in teaching — I feel very at home in the Writing Center and working with and learning from my peers in this capacity is the greatest privilege. Another favorite JMC moment was recently presenting my senior seminar project, “Mad About Madison,” at a panel during the Research Showcase. It was a powerful way to discuss this place and its possibilities with peers, faculty, and staff.
Participating in undergraduate research has been an overall highlight. Doing research with the same lab — WRITE Lab in the College of Education — because I’ve had the opportunity to co-author papers, collect data in classrooms across the state, and learn how to seek justice-oriented instructional solutions.
What has been most challenging about college? How did you get through it?
As most of us in JMC experience, I also had trouble being around so many ambitious people and knowing that it is okay to fail in a safe way. No one is immune to imposter syndrome, and feeling confident in myself has been a journey!
Another challenge for me was time management, but perhaps not in the typical sense. I didn’t make time for all the joy that exists here! It took a long time to get the hang of work-life balance, but I now make it a non-negotiable to do something purely for fun every day, and it's made all the difference. Often, this means going to a workout class or spending time with friends. Giving myself permission to take a break has made the hard work so much easier!