Students participate in a Techniques in High School Social Studies class on the campus of UW-River Falls. The university’s broad field social studies program is hosting a panel featuring recently hired teachers discussing their careers on April 16. UWRF file photo.
 

UW-River Falls to host public panel discussion on the teaching profession

April 10, 2025 - A panel discussion at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls hopes to give insight into the teaching profession for those interested in the field. The university’s broad field social studies (BFSS) program will present the panel titled “What is the teaching job market like? What should I expect as a new teacher? How will my outside life change?” on Wednesday, April 16 from 4:45-6 p.m. in Wyman Education Building, room 118, 410 S. 3rd St., River Falls.
 
Attendees will hear directly from recently hired teachers, many of whom are UWRF alumni and graduates of the BFSS program. Panelists will share their experiences transitioning from college to the classroom, offer advice on navigating the job market and discuss the impact of teaching on personal life and work-life balance.
 
The panel is part of the university’s ongoing commitment to supporting teacher candidates and fostering meaningful connections between future educators and working professionals.
 
UWRF has a long-standing reputation for excellence in teacher education. The university’s programs prepare students not only to become effective classroom leaders, but to also serve as advocates for students, schools and communities. Small class sizes, dedicated faculty and hands-on classroom experiences ensure graduates are well-prepared for the challenges and rewards of today’s teaching landscape.
 
“Our program emphasizes real-world preparation and meaningful relationships,” said John Ivens, event organizer and faculty member in the School of Education. “We work hard to maintain strong ties with local school districts and our alumni, many of whom return to speak with current students and offer mentorship.”
 
That close-knit community is one of the reasons UW-River Falls graduates are sought after by school districts throughout Wisconsin and beyond. From rural schools to urban districts, alumni of the teacher education program bring a high level of preparation, professionalism and passion to their roles.

For more information about the event, email john.ivens@uwrf.edu. For more information about the BFSS program, visit uwrf.edu/programs/broad-field-social-studies.