From Language Student to Classroom Teacher: Claudia Lopez ’26 Explores Education During Winter Term

When Claudia Lopez ’26 arrived at The Country School in Madison, Connecticut for her Winter Term internship, she had never formally taught before. Walking into a school serving students ages 4–14 felt intimidating but the experience quickly became one of connection, confidence, and discovery.

“I remember actually getting emotional on my way to Connecticut because I really didn’t know what to expect,” Lopez said. “But the beauty in not knowing what to expect is that it’s an opportunity for you to make the most out of it.”

One of the biggest surprises for Lopez was how quickly she formed relationships with students. Over just one month, she learned everyone’s names and joined activities across the school community. “I was surprised at how attached I got with the students,” she said. “Even though it was only a month, the students and I grew very close very quickly.”

She especially enjoyed participating in IDEA Day, where students across grade levels come together to explore inclusion, diversity, empathy, and action.

During the internship, Lopez had the opportunity to step into the role of teacher and lead her own lessons. One highlight was teaching her first Japanese language class to a seventh-grade history group. “Not only were the students picking up the material very quickly, but they were engaged throughout the entire lesson and wanted to learn more,” she said. 

The lesson included a hands-on calligraphy activity where students practiced writing simple Japanese words. By the end, many were eager to learn how to write their own names in Japanese. “Everyone did a wonderful job, and everyone wanted to learn how to write their name in Japanese. I thought that was adorable!”

As a Japanese Studies major, Lopez was surprised by how often her academic interests connected with the school’s curriculum. Throughout the month, she shared knowledge about Japanese architecture and disaster preparedness, the legend behind paper crane making, and the history of the language’s development. “I was so surprised how much of my Japanese Studies major showed up in many parts of the students’ curriculum,” she said.

The experience also helped Lopez reflect on her future. Rather than feeling pressure to choose a single path right away, she left the internship feeling open to exploring multiple possibilities, including teaching.

For students hesitant to try an internship in an unfamiliar field, Lopez encourages embracing the unknown. “Come in with an open mind, try new things, and expect to mess up a couple of times,” she said. “Before this internship, I was terrified… but the beauty in not knowing what to expect is that it’s an opportunity for you to make the most out of it.”

Through her Winter Term experience, Lopez discovered the impact of stepping outside her comfort zone and the possibilities that can open when you do.