Born into teaching, compelled by music

Editor’s note: This is part of a series of profiles for spring 2018 commencement. 

Lora Eger never questioned what she wanted to do with her life: “I was born into teaching. Both of my parents are teachers, and I have known nothing less.”

Eger grew up in the small community of San Tan Valley, Arizona, and is now student teaching at a charter school in the same area. She teaches seventh-grade math and has signed a contract to teach at the school next year.

Along with teaching, Eger enjoys music. She grew up going to ASU football games and dreaming about being in the Sun Devil marching band. Eger promised herself she would be on that field — and she did just that.

Initially, Eger enrolled at ASU as a music education major, but quickly switched to elementary education with a minor in music.

“I knew I could make more of an impact teaching all subjects — not just music,” she said.

As she looks ahead to next year, Eger says she wants to “be the change the future generations need. I hope to make some sort of difference.”

Question: What was your “aha” moment, when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?

Answer: I was born into teaching. Both of my parents are teachers, and I have known nothing less. Teaching in my family has always been an incredibly rewarding field, and I wanted to be the change the future generations need. I have seen the light teachers offer in a place that can be cruel, and I hope to be some sort of difference. I always knew this was a profession for me.

Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you, that changed your perspective?

A: Despite growing up in a relatively small town, I always tried my best in school. I tried to set myself apart by being a positive role model.

Q: Why did you choose ASU?

A: I always wanted to be in the Sun Devil Marching Band. I grew up going to the football games and dreaming of marching in Sun Devil Stadium. I promised myself I would be on that field, and I made it happen.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

A: Network, network, network! Get your name out there, and don't be afraid to ask questions along the way. You have to stand out in a positive fashion. If you need a resource, having someone to go to can be very reassuring. You never know what amazing opportunities will fall in your lap.

Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?

A: The Polytechnic campus is in the middle of the Sonoran landscape. There are nooks all over campus in between the outside hallways. The connection between the two buildings has a seating area directly under a breathtaking wire structure where flowers bloom and vines stretch out. In the springtime, I can't get enough.

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: I have signed a contract for an incredible school in Queen Creek, Arizona, teaching seventh-grade mathematics.

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?  

A: If I had $40 million, I would try to put a dent in the cleaning of ocean pollution. I would invest in research and creation of different resources that are more biodegradable and accessible to our population. In addition, I would sponsor ocean clean-ups and reduce the amount of trash pollution in the ocean “dump.”

Written by Trista Sobeck