Syneece Forbes is an Atlanta, Ga., native who will graduate in 2028 with a degree in Elementary Education. She is minoring in communications and sociology.
Why Did you Choose UNCG?
When I first toured UNCG, I knew it was the place for me. I was really intrigued by the diversity and community on campus. Everywhere I went felt so lively, welcoming, and fun. Although I had many other options for school that were more financially convenient, UNCG was always on my mind. I felt so drawn to UNCG and would always see my future self becoming a Spartan. Ultimately, that feeling is what made me choose UNCG!
What is your favorite place on campus?
The Fountain!
What activities and organizations are you involved in on campus?
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Resident Advisor (RA), Peer Academic Leader, and Soul City Dance Club.
What experience at UNCG has had the most significant impact on you?
Becoming an RA has probably had the biggest impact on me during my time at UNCG. It was one of my first on-campus jobs, and it taught me so much about myself, people, building genuine relationships, balance, and so much more! Being an RA has also introduced me to people and experiences that I know I’ll carry with me long after college. Although the job has had both its good and bad days, it has definitely been one of the most meaningful parts of my UNCG experience thus far.
What has been your favorite class and why?
My favorite class that I’ve taken was actually a class for one of my minors, and it was Interpersonal Communication. In that class, we talked a lot about how communication affects our relationships with other people. I really enjoyed the class because not only was my professor amazing, but I also had a really great group of classmates. We were all vulnerable and talkative enough to have conversations about relationships, our experiences, and just have really great and insightful discussions with each other. I ended up building some really great connections and friendships in that class, which made it one of my favorite classes I’ve taken at UNCG.
What are your career goals?
My ultimate career goal is to become a first or second grade elementary teacher!
What made you want to choose a career in This Field?
I want to be a teacher because of my eighth grade math teacher, Ms. Wheat. When I moved to Georgia from The Virgin Islands in 2019, math became my hardest subject. Because of the education difference, I was on a fourth grade math level compared to my seventh grade peers, and I quickly went from being an honors student to struggling with C’s and D’s. My seventh grade teacher eventually stopped trying to help me, which made me feel like I wasn’t capable of succeeding. Then I met Ms. Wheat the following year. She was patient, understanding, and never gave up on me.
The most memorable moment was when I broke down over a math quiz we took in class. When she saw me sitting quietly in tears, she took me outside and firmly, but compassionately, reminded me that a grade or a math problem did not define who I was or what I was capable of. She believed in me when I did not believe in myself. While I’m still not quite a math whiz, I want to be that kind of teacher for my students, someone who never gives up on them and helps them see their own potential like she did with me.
What advice would you give a student considering UNCG and the School of Education?
My biggest piece of advice would be to come to UNCG with an open mind and take advantage of the opportunities and resources around you, not only at UNCG in general but within the School of Education as well! Get involved, meet people, and do not be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone!
To future educators, teaching is a calling. Stay true to yourself and do not let anyone shame you or allow people’s opinions make you feel like you made the wrong choice. Remember why you chose to be teacher in the first place! We got this!
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