Mary Carper '26M

Mary Carper earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and biology from Marian University Indianapolis and began her career as a residency Spanish teacher. She now teaches at East Forsyth High School in North Carolina’s Piedmont Triad and graduated from UNCW in May with a Master of Arts in Teaching in Spanish education.

Carper said her own high school teachers inspired her to enter the profession.

“My high school teachers made a great impact on my life,” she said. “I love inspiring teenagers to become more curious about foreign language and to consider traveling to or studying in Spanish-speaking countries. I also appreciate that teaching offers built-in breaks during the year.”

Balancing full-time teaching while completing her MAT was challenging at times, but Carper said the program’s flexibility and support helped her succeed.

“The fall semester was especially demanding because I was taking my last Spanish elective while completing field experience requirements,” she said. “My professors were very understanding and flexible, and being able to complete the field experience practicum hours through my full-time job made a big difference. I was also able to use planning time for both my teaching and program requirements.”

Carper said support from colleagues has also been essential.

“All teachers have difficult moments or rough days,” she said. “Good coworkers understand what you’re going through, listen and are willing to help.”

For others considering the residency pathway or UNCW’s MAT program, Carper offers simple advice: go for it.

“I felt a little lost during my first few years of teaching, and I am a much more prepared and confident teacher after completing this program,” she said. “I’m really happy I took this step in my career.”