"I was born and raised in Toronto. While growing up, my life heavily revolved around music. I learned traditional Indian music, dance and instruments for a large portion of my life. In high-school, I took an interest in music and was in various band programs in my high school playing the saxophone.

While music was my hobby, I developed a passion for working with children throughout my Bachelor of Arts at Ryerson University in the Child and Youth Care program. After graduating, I was employed with the Peel District School Board as an Educational Assistant working predominantly with students with exceptionalities. While working with the school board, I was so motivated by my students, that I knew that I wanted to be a teacher.

Now I am at York University in my second year of Teachers College. So far as part of my education I was able to participate in a community practicum at Pathways to Education. I was privileged to work with many different high-school students, where I helped with assignments, Grade 9 EQAO and OSSLT preparation. I acted as a role model and supported students who were English Language learners and new immigrants to Canada. I learned so much through creating positive and therapeutic relationships with them. I witnessed how hard-working the staff are in ensuring that their students can graduate from high-school, get accepted into post-secondary institutions, while also allowing them to learn various soft skills that are needed to succeed in the professional world. I was able to watch the students that I worked with become better at speaking, writing, reading and understanding the English language, which transformed their confidence and outlook upon life. The staff at Pathways not only encouraged and supported their high-school students but they also helped me become a better teacher in the process. No matter where my teaching career begins, I will keep these experiences close to me, as I continue my educational journey."

Pranitha Sathananthan
Bachelor of Education (P/J) (Consecutive), Class of 2019
Faculty of Education