Student Spotlight

Shawn Winans

Class of '21

B.S., Health and Physical Education

Shawn Winans could be described as a nontraditional student. After struggling in high school, he joined the Marine Corps to give himself time to decide. “I knew I didn’t want a desk job, but I didn’t know exactly what that meant, so I joined the military to give myself time to decide while serving my country. After I was honorably discharged, I had the GI Bill to pay for my education, and I knew I wanted to be a health and physical education teacher. I taught other soldiers in the military, and I loved seeing that spark in their eyes when they finally grasped a really challenging concept. I chose health and physical education since I play lacrosse and have a passion for fitness.”

“I chose FSU after visiting the campus and feeling the family environment here. Everyone is so nice here, and they are always willing to help you out no matter what. The military is a closeknit community, and I knew if I was going to be successful, I needed to feel like I was a part of a similar culture. FSU was this for me. You know, it’s not even that the mountains and campus are gorgeous. I chose FSU because I joined the Lacrosse team and was captain for three years. I was a Bobcat ambassador, and I got the very best of the College of Education as I took classes in both the Department of Educational Professions and the Department of Kinesiology and Recreation. The faculty in both departments are some of the most professional and passionate people I have had the pleasure of meeting.”

Shawn is excited about his future career in education. “I have been offered a job after graduation and have already signed my contract! Schools know that the FSU College of Education produces excellent educators who are excited to make a difference in children’s lives.”