Dakota Bateman ‘26 is a psychology major with a certification in early elementary education. A lifelong resident of Bethlehem, Dakota always aspired to attend Moravian to become the best version of herself. During their time at Moravian, they have built numerous connections within the community and engaged in various new activities. Through interactions with staff and alumni, Dakota discovered a passion for advocacy work and subsequently founded a campus group called Future Advocates for Public Education, which is dedicated to educating students on professional advocacy. Although the group is small and still emerging, they are enthusiastic about its growth. She is committed to fostering student engagement through community support and meaningful interactions within Bethlehem and beyond.
What is your proudest accomplishment at Moravian?
It would be the amount of attention and eyes I have brought to the inadequacies our students’ experience within our teaching placements. Many of my peers were unclear and uncomfortable with how to bring these topics forward and what to do to support our students. Through my group, Future Advocates For Public Education, I will be able to support my peers and those who come after my time here at Moravian with information on how to advocate without just using our voices!
Why did you choose to come to Moravian?
I grew up in Bethlehem, and it was always baffling to me how Moravian could exist within the center of a city I thought I knew every inch of. Before hearing back from Moravian, I was accepted to more than five other schools, some with more financial support. When I found out I got into Moravian, nothing had ever felt more exciting. Being here has continued to grant me with this feeling through every accomplishment.
What are your hobbies and passions?
When I’m not on campus, my favorite thing to do is volunteer in classrooms around the city. Whether it be Lincoln or William Penn Elementary Schools, I am most likely in one of their kindergarten classrooms, working with some of my best friends, and supporting their students as best I can. Outside of school, I enjoy reading lots of books and often find myself lost in one.
Why did you pick psychology as a major?
I plan to work as a general education classroom teacher, but I also want to be like Barbie and work within a private practice at some point during my career. I chose this career because when I was a young girl, my grandmother lost her battle with addiction and mental health. The next day at school, I was greeted by a friendly face, Mrs. Grube my fifth grade teacher, who comforted me and pushed for me to continue showing up for myself even through hard times. I have forever been in her debt. By selecting my major, I knew that I could be that person for another student in my field, which might be the best form of repayment.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I must be the proudest cat mom ever. Anyone and everyone is subject to seeing super cute (or absolutely horrifying) pictures of my chunky man, Lunchbox, and my tiny munchkin, Peanut.
Favorite professor? Favorite class?
This question feels like it would get me in trouble. Hands down, my favorite professor has been Dr. Magdalena Leszko. She has been a wonderful professor to learn from within the psychology department, and is always willing to lend a helping hand when I need someone to talk to. My favorite class on campus has to be forensics with Dr. Jackson. He ensured that the entire course material was hands-on and utilized documentaries to concrete the content we learned in class.
What is your favorite thing to eat on campus?
I love a good Dr. Pepper, so I love anything that goes with it. Specifically, I love the boneless wings from the Hungry Hound food truck.
Where do you go to study or do homework?
I migrate across campus throughout the semester. Back in August, in an Orientation Leader video, I stated I love to study in Reeves, which is still true. However, I have recently found a new study space that I am hoping to keep a secret as long as possible.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
If you want to learn more about our group, Future Advocates For Public Education, or just want to learn more about advocacy, feel free to reach out to my personal email [email protected] or our club email [email protected].
