Jennifer Casey

Jennifer Casey is a residency English I teacher at Clinton High School. In May, she earned a graduate certificate in secondary education from UNCW’s Watson College of Education, completing the requirements for North Carolina teaching licensure.

Casey came to teaching after a 15-year career in social work, where she helped and advocated for children and families. A magna cum laude graduate of the University of Mount Olive with a degree in business administration, management and organizational development, she said teaching had long been in the back of her mind.

“Teaching had always been an interest of mine, but my career initially followed a different path,” she said. “I wanted to continue serving children in my community, and ultimately, my enduring passion for education inspired me to pursue this rewarding profession.”

At a friend’s encouragement, Casey applied for a teaching position at her local high school — a decision she describes as both challenging and life changing. Starting a new career in her 50s came with uncertainty, she said, and early on she felt overwhelmed. When Watson College staff visited her school to explain the residency pathway, she saw an opportunity for the support she needed to grow as an educator.

“Embarking on a new teaching career later in life has been both the most challenging and rewarding decision I have ever made,” she said. “I encourage my students to plan for the impossible and persevere — and I realized I needed to follow my own advice.”

Casey said the residency pathway was demanding, but she would not change the experience. She credits the support she received from Watson faculty and residency program representative Nicole Geczi with helping her succeed.

“I have felt genuinely supported,” she said. “The Watson College of Education at UNCW exceeded my expectations, meeting my needs with a supportive and encouraging approach. I am truly grateful for the value and sense of belonging each professor provided throughout my journey.”

Now, Casey encourages others considering a similar path to take the leap.

“While making life and family decisions can be challenging, these choices often lead to transformative experiences that enrich you personally and professionally,” she said. “Pursuing this journey has made me a better educator and individual. I wholeheartedly recommend UNCW’s Watson College of Education as an exceptional pathway to becoming a valued and effective teacher.”