Liberal Studies Major Elisa Nay Begins Her Attallah College Journey
Written by Alisha Chadha
Elisa Nay, a first-year liberal studies major at Chapman University’s Attallah College of Educational Studies, begins her college journey with a goal she has held since eighth grade: becoming a special education teacher.
Nay, a member of the Class of 2030, said Chapman has been her dream school since her first year of high school. She was drawn to Attallah College’s hands-on teacher preparation programs, and the support students receive while working toward their goals.
Her interest in special education already extends beyond the classroom. Nay works as a respite care provider for a student with disabilities and volunteers with toddlers through her church’s disabilities ministry.
Nay hopes to become a middle school special education teacher. She is also interested in working in policy to advocate for special education teachers and students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
As she begins her first year, Nay looks forward to joining student organizations, connecting with professors and meeting people from different backgrounds. She is excited to explore the opportunities available at Chapman while preparing for a career supporting students with disabilities.
Transfer Student Julia Cunningham Begins a New Chapter at Attallah College
Julia Cunningham, a transfer student at Chapman University’s Attallah College of Educational Studies, is beginning a new chapter focused on building relationships, gaining classroom experience and preparing for a career working with children.
Cunningham is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies with a minor in elementary education. She expects to graduate in 2028 and plans to continue her education by earning a master’s degree.
Chapman stood out to Cunningham because of its welcoming community and personal classroom environment. She said Attallah College’s professors made her feel supported before she had even attended her first class.
“Each of the professors wants to get to know you and form a relationship with you,” Cunningham said. “I experienced this before I even had my first day on campus.”
Cunningham hopes to work with elementary-age children as a teacher or possibly as a speech-language pathologist.
“I love meeting new people and look forward to getting to know others who are part of Attallah College,” Cunningham said.
We look forward to seeing what Nay and Cunningham accomplish during their time at Chapman and where their passion takes them!
