Meet Sadeen Abdelaziz, a proud Philadelphian and second-year early childhood education major at Temple University’s College of Education and Human Development (CEHD). Following her passion for helping her classmates, she also recently joined the college’s student worker team as a peer advisor.
From Philly to the Classroom
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Temple was always on Abdelaziz’s radar. “I wanted to stay close to home, but I also knew Temple had a strong reputation and a welcoming community,” she says. “It felt like the right place to grow as a future educator.”
Although she initially applied as a business major, Abdelaziz quickly realized her true calling was teaching. “Over the summer before my first semester of college, I realized I had been surrounded by amazing teachers my whole life, and I wanted to be that person for my own students.”
Finding Her Place in the CEHD
One of her favorite classes so far has been Socio-cultural Foundations of Education in the United States with Professor Sarah Burgess. “It really opened my eyes to the history of education, issues of equity and how schools impact communities. It changed how I think about teaching.”
Abdelaziz describes herself as “motivated, organized and helpful.” That drive extends beyond her own coursework. As a peer advisor, she’s committed to ensuring students feel supported. “When I first came to Temple, the peer advisors were so approachable. I wanted to be that person for others.”
Life as a Peer Advisor
This past summer, she dove into her new role, guiding students through questions about classes, resources and requirements. “At first, I was nervous, but starting over the summer gave me time to learn the ropes. Now I’m more confident, especially when helping students with things like clearances.”
Abdelaziz explains her motivation: “Knowing I can make someone’s day easier. College can be overwhelming, and sometimes just having a friendly face to ask for help makes all the difference.”
Balancing Work, School and Life
Between advising, classes and her own studies, Abdelaziz prioritizes balance. “Schoolwork always comes first, once my assignments are done, I can relax with friends or enjoy the city.” On campus, she’s a regular at Richie’s Café, and off-campus, she loves One Shot Café in Fishtown.
She’s also looking forward to her first practicum this year. “It’s my first step toward working directly in a classroom, and I can’t wait.”
Looking Ahead
Abdelaziz hopes to teach in the School District of Philadelphia after graduation, with a preference for working with younger students, second grade or below. Long-term, she plans to earn her master’s degree. “I know the first few years of teaching will be a big adjustment, but I’m ready for the challenge.”
When asked what advice she’d give to someone considering Temple, she doesn’t hesitate: “Apply! Coming here was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’m not the same person I was a year ago and meeting so many people and using the resources here has helped me grow in every way.”
Her favorite Temple experience so far? “Meeting my closest friends,” Abdelaziz shares. “They’ve made my experience unforgettable.”