Senior Spotlight: Alyssa Wisniewski

Senior Alyssa Wisniewski has spent the past four years growing as an educator, leader, and mentor both in the classroom and across campus. As she prepares to graduate this spring and begin her teaching career, Alyssa reflects on the experiences that shaped her time at FSC. In this Q&A, she shares how her education, campus involvement, and personal growth have prepared her for the next chapter.

As you approach graduation, share your plans and how your time at FSC has influenced them.

I plan to return to Lake County to begin my first year teaching, ideally in 4th-grade math and science, while completing my Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction through FSC’s 4+1 program. FSC has not only inspired me to pursue higher education, but has also given me the confidence to navigate the hiring process and begin my teaching career.

How has Florida Southern College influenced your decision to become a teacher?

Teaching has been my passion for as long as I can remember. What drew me to FSC was the incredible education program and since enrolling, I’ve never looked back. Every semester, I’ve had the opportunities to plan and work directly with students and their families, these hands-on experiences have only deepened my love for teaching. FSC has truly helped me grow into the educator I’ve dreamed of becoming.

What key lessons have you learned through your internship opportunities and time in the classroom?

My internship opportunities have taught me valuable lessons through observation and hands-on experience. Seeing different teaching styles helped me shape my own philosophy, while working with various grade levels clarified my preferred teaching style and grades.

You've been actively involved on campus. How have your organizational affiliations enriched your FSC experience?

Academics are just one aspect of the college experience. At FSC, I've been deeply involved in student clubs (Mocs and Mentors & School of Education Exec board), Kappa Delta Pi education honors society, and Delta Delta Delta sorority, where I’ve held several executive positions. These experiences have provided me with meaningful opportunities for personal and leadership development and professional networking. I wouldn't be as confident in who I am today without the incredible people I’ve met through these experiences.

What will you miss the most about your time at FSC?

What I’ll miss most are the people. They were the ones who gave me a safe space to lean on, supported me through my toughest moments, and celebrated every success, big or small. Ultimately, it’s the people at FSC who have shaped me into the woman I am today and for that I will always be grateful.

If you could give advice to your first-year self, what would it be?

As a freshman, I was quiet and reserved, which made it difficult to build connections in a close-knit department. I’d tell my younger self to talk more and take chances. Stepping out of my comfort zone led to meaningful relationships and opportunities I would never have thought for myself. College is intimidating and it’s easy to stick with something that feels safe, but growth begins when you're willing to open the doors in front of you."

Any final thoughts or memories you'd like to share about your time at FSC?

I have many thoughts and memories about FSC. From joining my sorority and eventually becoming President, to working Orientation and Southern Select, becoming a welcoming face for new students. But it’s the small moments and unexpected adventures I didn’t know I needed that have shaped my journey. Thinking back, I’m proud of how I’ve grown and the mark I’ve made on FSC.