How to Build a Support Network in College: 3 Tips for Education Majors

Samantha Fecich
Jul 9
3 min read

Updated: Aug 24

Hey there, future educators! Welcome back to the EDUMagic Podcast, where aspiring teachers gain the tools, tips, and expert advice they need to thrive in college and beyond. I’m Dr. Amy Orville, a professor at Slippery Rock University, founder of Linked Up Collaborations, full-time mom of four, and your go-to guide for turning Pinterest dreams into classroom reality. In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that can truly make or break your college experience: how to build a strong support network as a first-year education major.

Why a Support Network in College Matters

Starting college is exciting, but let’s be real: it can also feel overwhelming. You’re leaving behind your family, high school teachers, and close friends. Suddenly, your support system isn’t just down the hall or a quick text away. But here’s the good news: you can build a new, powerful support network in college. This network will carry you through lesson plans, late-night study sessions, and everything in between. Let’s explore three heart-centered, practical strategies to help you build your village from day one.

1. Connect with Your Cohort: Your College Teaching Crew

One of the biggest perks of being in a teacher prep program is that you’re not doing it alone. You’re part of a cohort—a group of students moving through the program together. These are your people: classmates, study buddies, and future colleagues.

How to Build Connections

Introduce Yourself: Start by introducing yourself in class or group chats.
Create a Group: Start a GroupMe, Discord, or WhatsApp group.
Organize Meetups: Arrange casual study sessions or snack-and-vent meetups.

Your cohort will become your academic family. They truly understand what it’s like to write reflections at midnight or survive your first field placement. That’s the kind of support that’s pure EDU magic.

2. Find a Faculty Mentor: Your Academic Yoda

Education professors have been in the trenches. They’ve taught in real classrooms, navigated parent-teacher conferences, and survived the chaos of standardized testing. They want to see you succeed.

Why Mentorship Matters

Guidance: Get advice on licensure, field placements, and career paths.
Feedback: Receive honest feedback and encouragement.
Professional Relationship: Build a lasting relationship that can shape your teaching journey.

Start by visiting office hours and showing genuine interest. Mentorship isn’t a one-time thing; it’s an ongoing relationship that can significantly impact your career.

3. Join Education Organizations: Where Teachers Unite

Yes, teacher nerds are cool, and education clubs are where they hang out. These organizations offer leadership opportunities, hands-on experience, and a sense of belonging.

How to Get Involved

Attend Involvement Fairs: Go to your school’s involvement fair.
Try Different Clubs: Experiment with various clubs until you find the right fit.
Bring a Friend: Make it less intimidating by inviting a friend along.

From organizing bulletin boards to running meetings, these groups help you grow as a leader and connect with peers who share your passion for teaching.

Building Your Support Network

Creating a strong support network is crucial for your success as a first-year education major. It’s not just about academic help; it’s about emotional support, too.

Emotional Support

College can be stressful. Having friends and mentors to lean on can make a significant difference in your mental well-being.

Academic Support

Your support network can help you navigate challenging coursework and field placements. They can provide insights and share resources that can enhance your learning experience.

Your Support System Starts with You

Feeling homesick or out of place is a normal experience. However, remember that your new support system is already forming. All it takes is a few brave steps to build it.

Connect with Your Cohort: Your future teacher squad.
Find a Faculty Mentor: Your wise, caffeinated guide.
Join Education Organizations: Your crew of like-minded peers.

Behind every great teacher is a community that lifted them. So start building yours today because you’ve got EDU Magic on your side.

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