A Future Teacher Finds Her Calling: Olivia Hare ’26 on the Supportive Heart of NC State’s College of Education

April 24, 2026 - 04:39

When Olivia Hare ’26 first arrived at NC State, her academic plan was clear: pursue a degree in biology and follow the pre-medical track. However, as she immersed herself in her coursework, she quickly realized that this path was not the right fit for her. Despite the shift in direction, Hare knew one thing for certain—she wanted a career that would allow her to help and serve others in a meaningful way.

That realization led her to the College of Education, where she discovered a community that she says has poured their time and hearts into preparing future teachers. “The College of Education has poured their time and hearts into their future teachers,” Hare shared, reflecting on her experience. She credits the faculty and staff for not only providing rigorous academic training but also for offering genuine mentorship and emotional support.

Hare’s journey underscores the transformative power of finding the right educational home. Rather than feeling lost after changing her major, she found a program that values both professional excellence and personal growth. The College of Education, she notes, is dedicated to ensuring that students like her are not just equipped with teaching skills, but are also nurtured as individuals ready to make a difference in the lives of their own future students. For Hare, this supportive environment has been the key to turning a moment of uncertainty into a passionate commitment to education.