Introducing Becke

My name is Becke Shulman and I am forever a student. I was born in Los Angeles but my dad moved us down to Carlsbad when I was just 3 years old because he thought it was a better place to raise a family. I'm glad he did because I love San Diego and feel fortunate to live in this part of the world. As for school, since I lived on the north side of La Costa I was part of the San Marcos School District (this was before La Costa Meadows and La Costa Canyon High School). I went to Alvin Dunn Elementary then San Marcos Jr. High and lastly San Marcos High. My High School had an Ag farm where I raised sheep which inspired my desire to be a veterinarian and led me to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Three years later I changed my mind and came back home to go to Palomar College to figure out what my new career should be. I then transfered to SDSU and received my Bachelors in Theatre-design emphasis (costumes was my focus).

My experience in technology is lacking. I didn't grow up with computers and didn't start using them until college when it was required to turn in typed written assignments (for a long time I would prefer to handwrite my papers first). I never had the newest anything when it came to technology and was probably one of the last people to get a cell phone. But that all changed when I married a computer programmer. Now we might have the latest computers and toys but I still don't know what the heck to do with it all. Slowly, as I usually work, I'm coming to accept the fact that I can't exist in our society without being more fluent in technology. Still I can't help being continually frustrated and wanting to give up.

I am a mac person and have Microsoft office 2004. I use the computer daily for emailing and the internet but not much more except when I am enrolled in classes or applying for jobs. This 422 class is the first time using the computer at this level and duration.

Unfortunately, I didn't choose the Mission Statement as a factor in coming to CSUSM. I'm curious now to see what SDSU says in comparison as that was initially where I was going to go for my credential. The part that speaks to me is "...transform public education by preparing thoughtful educators..." When I took the cultural diversity class, the word transform was used a lot. This class was extremely thought provoking to me because it showed how closed we are without even knowing it. Yet when we become aware of our opinions and biases and try to see through the eyes of another we become better and more thoughtful educators.