Erin McPeek Mangahis graduated from UCSD in 1999 with a bachelor’s degree in literature, a minor in teacher education, and, a year later, she earned her teaching credential from UCSD. Erin, who also has a master’s degree in education from SDSU, is now at Patrick Henry High School, teaching 9th grade English and 10th-11th grade Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID). Erin was one of four recipients of San Diego County’s 2005 Teacher of the Year award.

What were your first impressions of UCSD?

I was immediately impressed by UCSD. I had visited many colleges throughout my high school career and vacillated between wanting to go to a small college or a large college. That is one of the reasons UCSD was perfect for me. It has the advantages of both types of campuses. It is a large school with a great deal of resources and prestige, but because it is divided into colleges, it feels like a small school. Plus, when I first visited UCSD, I fell in love with the campus and knew that this was where I wanted to attend college.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman student about succeeding at UCSD?

I would give incoming freshmen the same advice I give my AVID students. First of all, get involved. College is what you make of it. Find groups and activities to get involved in. Don't be afraid to take risks. Also, if you can, travel abroad. I didn't, and I really regret it. Studying abroad is an amazing opportunity and there are so many programs out there for students. There are summer abroad programs as well as semesters or quarters and full-year programs. Finally, get to know your professors. Visit them during their office hours. They have such a wealth of knowledge beyond what they present in the classroom. Plus, if they know you, they can help write letters of recommendation that you made need later.

Which professors had the biggest impact on your education?

There are several professors that come to mind. In the literature department, Professor Freilicher was amazing. He taught a lot of the fiction writing classes. He chose really interesting fiction to have us examine, and he is an excellent writing coach. I also really appreciated Barbara Moss. I have tried to emulate much of her teaching—both technique and substance—with my own students. Bud Mehan was also incredible and made the curriculum extremely relevant. He does an excellent job of allowing students to examine and discuss the inequalities in education, in order to help them become better teachers themselves. Finally, all of the TEP (Teachers Education Program) staff had an incredible impact on my education.

What are your favorite spots on campus?

The cliffs! I love the cliffs. I used to go jogging there regularly and sit and watch the sunsets. That is the most inspiring place on campus. I also really loved the library at Revelle. The Geisel library is incredible, but there is something a little more quaint about the Revelle library that appealed to me.

What has your career been like since you graduated from UCSD?

UCSD did an amazing job of preparing me for my current career. I attained my master’s at SDSU and have been teaching high school English for the past 6 years. This year, I had the incredible honor of being named one of four San Diego County Teacher's of the Year. This is an outstanding recognition for all of the Patrick Henry staff because our school has a strong and very dedicated teaching staff. I feel fortunate to represent them.

How has UCSD changed since your undergraduate days?

UCSD has grown up. The campus is huge! There is at least one new college since I have been there. The parking is more spread out and challenging than it was when I was there, and probably more expensive too!

What do you like best about being a UCSD alumna?

I am impressed by how connected UCSD keeps its alumni. Over the last few years, I have really liked all the efforts UCSD has made to keep me connected to the university. It is something I’ve really appreciated.

What do you do to unwind?

I go jogging, hiking, camping...anything outdoors. I am an avid reader, and I also enjoy writing my own stories. The best relaxation comes from the time I spend with my family and friends, though.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In ten years....I see myself as the mother of 1 or 2 children. I will still be teaching secondary students here in San Diego.