Patrick Donnelly
Began at Teachwell:
2023
Why did you choose this field?
I enjoy seeing the look on a person's face when they feel the relief of accomplishing things that they didn't realize they were capable of.
What did you think you were going to be when you grew up?
Sea rescue diver.
What or who most inspires you?
Overall nature. Whether it be getting to go swimming in a lake, see a new landscape from a high peek, or fresh snow. I enjoy the peace of being outside and enjoy the fresh air of getting out and exploring somewhere new.
Why Teachwell?
I've always wanted to work with student age in general to help build up good habits from the beginning. I believe my life experiences and knowledge will help shape students' futures for the better, and Teachwell focuses on exactly that and much more.
What are you proudest of?
Being able to connect with others, and knowing trust has been built up with people who seek my opinion on just about anything.
How do you hope to make a difference?
By being able to connect with students. I believe students will see that their teachers aren't as different as it may first appear. Since I am from quite literally halfway across the country, my students feel comfortable being able to chat with someone who is going through new life experiences, just as my students are.
What lessons has your work life taught you?
Simply put, patience. You bring the best out of others when you show caring, compassion and patience to work through a difficult task. Anyone can and does learn something from everyone, no matter what that something may be.
What is your background? Experience, degrees, skills, etc.?
I was born and raised in Philadelphia Pennsylvania, the sixth most populated city in the country. So my understandings of what bad weather and small towns really means has to change now that I live in the midwest haha. I have a bachelor's degree in Psychology and also a certificate in Animal Assisted Therapy. I will likely get my certification to teach CPR as well. These things are some of both professional and personal ways I can help others and drives my overall mentality of giving back to people. My overall work experience has been geared around assisting others, whether it be in a classroom setting or helping those with disabilities out and about in the community. My next ambition for the long term future is to combine my love of animals and my drive to help others. I intend to become a therapist, though haven't decided on which type yet, and utilize my animal assisted therapy background to facilitate that.
People would be surprised to know that I . . .
