Howdy! My name is Gabby Parnell and I am currently a junior EC-6th generalist major. I am from Cypress, Texas which is right outside of Houston. After graduation in 2024, I plan on continuing my education to pursue a masters degree in either administration or curriculum development. I am so excited to be working as a UPMT with Dr. Hawk this year. 

I have always had an admiration for educators since a young age, but never saw myself being one until I graduated high school. Then, I began to have an interest in education when I started working at a church in their childcare department. I fell in love with the environment and wonderful personalities of the children, prompting me to rethink my future career. Being able to see students learn and change week to week in front of my own eyes, made me excited to teach and inspire kids.

In my free time, you can find me out walking my dog Willie Nelson, baking something sweet, or binge watching a sitcom. I have recently started getting into yoga and reading so those are some more of my favorite things to do in order to decompress. I am also a UPM for RDNG 373 for the first time too so this is a season for new experiences for me. 

My goal in this position is to foster an encouraging environment for students to feel comfortable asking questions. I want to be able to guide student’s thinking and support their findings to successfully complete this course. Additionally, I plan on being a soundboard for students and helping them discover/navigate new technological platforms. I am so stoked to be of help to my peers in this position as a UPMT and further their knowledge of technology in teaching.