Voices of UMF: Sydney Beecher

“Big memories at a small school.”

Sydney Beecher, a 2026 graduate of UMF’s Master of Science in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Independent Study/STEAM, is currently a 3rd Grade Teacher at MSAD 59. As Maine’s teacher college, UMF is committed to supporting educators at every stage of their careers—offering opportunities that extend far beyond the undergraduate experience. From first certification to advanced leadership development, we’re here to help teachers grow, adapt, and continue to excel in the classroom and beyond. Sydney was nominated by faculty as a student of note and recently took a few moments to reflect on her journey through both UMF’s undergraduate and graduate programs.

“I was interested in teaching, so when it came time to look for colleges, everyone I talked to recommended UMF. In fact, most of my teachers in high school graduated from Farmington, and were happy to help me apply. I was also fortunate enough to have a [high school] guidance counselor who connected me with Jon Hayes from admissions. I knew UMF would be a good fit for me when Jon texted me to let me know I was accepted before I received the letter in the mail. It felt like I was already a part of the community before I even enrolled. I still have screenshot of the text to this day!

UMF stands out to me because of the community and experiences it provides you. My professors supported my interests and encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone. I joined the Ultimate team and met a wonderful community of people, including my boyfriend and some of my closest friends. I went on trips through the university, such as a Broadway show and Boston harbor cruise, that I wouldn’t have otherwise gotten to experience.

I am most proud of the work I put into my graduate courses. I was fortunate enough to learn new strategies, practices, and research that I could directly connect to my classroom, or put it into practice right away. I showed my students that teachers are learners too, and that you never have to stop learning if you’re interested in something. I also had an amazing support system throughout it all, including my family, colleagues, and professors.

In my undergrad program, I had three classroom experiences in different grade levels. I learned what grades I would like to work with, how to work with a variety of students, and gained experience with different curriculums. I also got to complete mock interviews with local superintendents and principals, which gave me the opportunity to interview with one of the districts that attended. This helped me get a job before I even graduated!

When I was considering taking graduate courses, I immediately turned to UMF. Thankfully, the district I worked for (MSAD 59) saw the value in professional learning experiences. I was able to take courses that applied to my classroom needs and my interests as a learner. It has truly made me a more confident educator. As I start a new chapter of my life in a different part of Maine, I know the experiences I have from teaching in MSAD 59 and getting my graduate degree at UMF has prepared me for whatever comes next.

I am beyond grateful for the experiences and opportunities I’ve been given at UMF, and for the people I’ve been able to meet along the way. Thank you!”