Abby Braundmeier ’26
Hometown: Oskaloosa, IA
Major: Elementary Education
Abby Braundmeier’s journey in education is one fueled by passion and dedication. As an elementary education major at William Penn University, with endorsements in reading and special education, she is committed to making a difference in the lives of young learners. Born and raised in Oskaloosa, Abby has deep ties to her community and a strong support system that has guided her along the way. Though her path wasn’t always clear, she found her calling after initially attending a community college outside of Oskaloosa, only to realize it wasn’t the right fit. Taking time off to nanny helped her rediscover her love for working with children, leading her to pursue her degree in education at William Penn, a decision she is grateful for every day.
William Penn’s education program has provided Abby with invaluable experiences, from small class sizes to hands-on learning opportunities. One of her biggest inspirations has been her advisor and professor, Jamie Nelson, who has provided mentorship and modeled the kind of relationships educators should build in their own classrooms. Beyond coursework, Abby has gained extensive hands-on experience in real classrooms, working with students from kindergarten through eighth grade, including those in special education and alternative school settings. She has observed, taught lessons, and assisted with intervention groups, all of which have helped shape her confidence and teaching philosophy. She believes the best way to prepare for a career in education is through firsthand experience, and William Penn has given her countless opportunities to grow.
Despite her demanding schedule, Abby balances her academic life with work at Taso’s Steakhouse and Hy-Vee’s pharmacy, all while dedicating time to field experiences in the classroom. Juggling school, work, and a personal life hasn’t always been easy, but she has learned the importance of self-care and prioritizing her well-being. She encourages other students to recognize when they need to take a step back, recharge, and make time for the experiences that shape them as individuals. Meeting students from diverse backgrounds at William Penn has also expanded her perspective, giving her a newfound appreciation for inclusivity and cultural awareness. She believes that the university has helped make Oskaloosa a more diverse community and loves learning from the people she meets.
Looking ahead, Abby is eager to begin her teaching career and make a meaningful impact in the classroom. While she hasn’t chosen a specific school yet, she is drawn to upper elementary grades and has a strong passion for special education and behavioral support. She knows that the world needs more passionate educators, and she is ready to step up and be part of that change. A quote from one of her professors has stuck with her throughout her time at William Penn: “If a child comes to school loved, they are ready to learn. If a child comes to school not loved, they are ready to be loved. So, always love your students first, then teach them.” With this philosophy in mind, Abby is ready to embark on her journey as an educator, knowing that the relationships she builds with her students will be just as important as the lessons she teaches