Davenport University transfer student is eager to make a difference as an educator

People choose to attend Davenport University for a variety of reasons. Some seek a degree to continue a family tradition, achieve personal goals or attain financial security. Others obtain a degree to help them land their dream job or give them a competitive advantage over other applicants. 

Whatever the reason for attending college, one constant is true: a quality education is an invaluable asset that can open up a world of possibilities.  

In this series, we profile four motivated students on their educational journey and learn how Davenport is igniting their passion and fueling their future. 

Genevieve Swan- transfer student from Grandville, MI. 

“Davenport is fueling my future by providing me with a great education that will prepare me to make a difference as a teacher.”

Junior Genevieve Swan is a transfer student working towards a degree in Urban STEM Education. 

She kicked off her college education while still in high school by taking pre-nursing classes at a community college. A year into the program, she realized a career in the medical field wasn’t for her, and she started to explore other options. 

“I had been working at an assisted living facility and decided nursing wasn’t the right career path for me,” Swan said. “I then became a nanny and fell in love with helping at school events and with everything school-related. I had always been interested in becoming a teacher, and being involved with the school while I was a nanny reignited that interest.” 

Swan said she chose Davenport because of the campus, its STEM education program and her ability to take most of her classes online. She’s also thankful that the transfer process was quick and painless. She applied to Davenport in minutes from her phone and her credits transferred seamlessly. 

“Davenport’s STEM education program is great because I’m learning a lot about diverse learners and how to keep their needs in mind when teaching. Because the STEM education program focuses so much on diverse learners, I feel confident that I will be able to cater to each of my student’s unique needs and differences,” said Swan. “I also really love that Davenport’s program focuses on STEM because that really is where the world is going. I am able to learn about different technologies that are being used in classrooms as well as how to teach STEM concepts,” she said. 

Swan knew from a young age that she wanted a college education and that a degree was something she could be proud of. She considers herself fortunate to be in the education field and has never been so sure of her career choice and where she is supposed to be.

“Learning excites me, and being able to pass that excitement on to students is something I’m very passionate about,” said Swan. “I also really love this field because I truly feel like I will be able to make a difference. Someone needs to be there for these kids, and I feel lucky that I get to be that person,” she said.

Swan believes she will be a great teacher because Davenport is setting her up for success. 

“I feel confident in my ability to teach diverse learners and ensure that each and every one of my students’ needs are met. I want to be able to really reach my students and help them succeed in and outside of the classroom by pushing them to see their true potential,” she said.

Swan is on track to graduate in 2026 and hopes to teach science or social studies.