Krystal Simioli

Quick Facts

Program: Liberal Arts, BA and Education, MA
Graduation Year: 2018, 2022
Current Job Title: Elementary Teacher Menifee Union School District
Hometown: Riverside, CA
Current City: Menifee, CA

Life at CBU

Why did you choose your major? What interested you in this particular field of study?
I have always known that I wanted to be a teacher; I didn’t know exactly what grade, but I knew elementary. I wanted to explore different subject areas from early childhood to single subject. I had heard great things about the program at CBU; I finished my bachelor's degree there and knew I wanted to complete my master's and credential program there, as well.

What did you like about being in this program at CBU?
CBU made balancing being a mom and school life possible. I felt supported by the professors and the staff at CBU. It was easy to get the classes that I needed or any help that I might require. I made so many great friends in the credential program.

What did you think about your professors?
My professors were all caring and professional. There was so much knowledge to be shared, and I learned something from every single one. They not only taught education but social emotional wellness and other really important topics and tasks or tools that we need in this modern day teaching world.

Did you complete an internship?
I did student teaching through CBU. My mentor was wonderful and she and I are still in touch today.'

Did you participate in anything else at CBU?
I loved the children’s theater course at CBU. There were always fun student festivals, and things for those on campus as well. I just enjoyed being on the beautiful campus and getting to know other students that had the same interest as I did.

How did you grow (spiritually, socially, educationally) while in this program at CBU?
My favorite part about CBU was that each class integrated  faith and values into my coursework.

Did your major help you figure out your purpose?
One assignment in particular had me creating my educational philosophy. This really had me self reflect and look at the educator I was and want to be. I often look back at it and use it for motivation and professional development.

Life after CBU

What have you done since graduating?
I have been teaching for over five years now officially, and I am loving it. I have taught in a few different school districts and I’m currently with Menifee Union. Last year was my first year there and I was nominated and awarded the Districts Evening of Excellence Award in Teamwork.

What are your current job duties?
I am currently a fifth-grade teacher. I am also an advisor for the school student council and serve on the PTA. I am very active at the school community and enjoy it so much.

How has your major and time at CBU prepared you for your life and career after college?
CBU gave me the tools and resources I needed. I have great colleagues and fellow alumni for support.

Is there anything you learned at CBU that you still use in your professional life today?
I still strive every day to instill values in my students. I have learned the value of cultivating relationships and strong classroom management.

How are you making a difference in the world? How are you living your purpose?
I live my purpose by showing up each day with love, patience and intention, guiding my students, nurturing my family, supporting my partner and living out my faith through my actions.

What are your future goals and plans?
I would like to pursue a credential in administration and maybe do some Early Childhood Coaching.

Would you recommend CBU to others?
Yes! I would recommend CBU to others, especially those who want to pursue education.

Anything else you'd like to add? Anything else we should know about you?
I have three beautiful children who love to read, play baseball, dance, sing and spend Disney days together. I also have a supportive husband who helped me every step of the way on my educational path. I love you, Eric!