Name: Brittany Foss
Current Residence: Fargo, N.D.
Major/Minor: Education and Teaching, English Language Learners certificate

What is your current employment, education program, or passion project?

I have been teaching for West Fargo Public Schools for over 10 years. I work at Willow Park Elementary, specifically for a program called the Welcome Center. The Welcome Center is a specialized program at Willow Park Elementary designed to support students who have recently arrived in the United States and are still developing their English skills. In our program, students receive intensive, small group instruction that focuses on building language proficiency, whether it’s through speaking, listening, reading, or writing. But we don’t just teach language—our primary goal is to ensure that every student feels safe and accepted as they begin their new life in our school and community.

What first interested you in VCSU? How did you decide to come here?

As I reflect on my journey in the TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) program at VCSU, I can’t help but feel grateful for the decision I made to enroll. Many of my co-workers had raved about the program, speaking highly of the knowledgeable staff and the outstanding mentorship of Joan Aus, a faculty member who left a lasting impact on them. Now that I’ve had the opportunity to experience it myself, I can confidently say that VCSU lived up to the hype—and exceeded my expectations.

What are some of your accomplishments? 

This summer we welcomed our daughter, Parker Quinn Foss. Big brother Cooper loves playing and helping out with his little sister!

What are your interests outside of work (hobbies, volunteerism, interests, goals)? 

My family enjoys going to the lake in the summer and traveling as much as possible!

What is your fondest memory of your college years? 

Building new relationships with peers that turned into lasting friendships after college. All the late night study groups and working on group projects are the memories that still make me smile. College was also a time for personal growth and where I discovered new interests.

Any advice for current VCSU students?

Set achievable, short-term goals to maintain a sense of progress and stay organized with tasks.Reconnect with the reasons you started college in the first place. Keeping your purpose in mind can help you through the tough days. Allow yourself to explore new ideas, subjects, and experiences. Stay curious.

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