When Natalie Almendarez Mcafee BA’26 reflects on the educators who shaped her life, one thing becomes clear: she wants to be that person for someone else. 

Mcafee is among the inaugural students to graduate with a Bachelor’s in Liberal Studies from Attallah College of Educational Studies at Chapman University, a milestone she describes as nothing short of an honor. 

Finding the Path  

Mcafee’s journey to Chapman wound through community college, where something clicked. Surrounded by educators who offered consistent encouragement and guidance, she came to understand that teaching was the path meant for her. 

“I had great educators throughout my academic journey,” she said. “I know that I wouldn’t be where I am now if not for their encouragement and guidance.” 

Being part of the inaugural Liberal Studies graduating class, she said, fills her with a deep sense of pride.

Liberal Studies: A Major That Broadened Her Worldview 

Mcafee describes the Liberal Studies program as one that brought her into the community with people who are not only committed to their chosen paths but are genuinely passionate about their fields. “Being part of the Liberal Studies program fosters a worldview that is both intellectually curious and socially responsible,” she said.  

One course stood out above the rest. A class on “Schools in Society,” taught by Assistant Professor Stephany Cuevas, left a lasting impression not just for its content but for the message she carried away. “The main takeaway I was able to draw from the course was to create the change I’d wish to see in the world,” she said. 

This summer, McAfee will begin coursework through Chapman’s Integrated Master of Arts in Teaching program in preparation for student teaching in the fall. A double major in Liberal Studies and English, she has the flexibility to explore both elementary and secondary education pathways. She will spend her student teaching in a secondary English classroom, working primarily with junior high and early high school students. 

She credits the educators she encountered throughout her Liberal Studies coursework with modeling the kind of teacher she hopes to become, one who teaches content while also demonstrating compassion, resilience, and advocacy.