Travon Griffin: ‘I want to help children succeed’

Undergraduate student likes VCU SOE’s diverse community

Headshot of Travon Griffin, an undergraduate student in the VCU School of Education’s B.S. Ed. in Elementary Education and Teaching program.
Travon Griffin is majoring in elementary education.

Travon Griffin works full time as a field support specialist at Wells Fargo Advisors in Richmond. After first enrolling in VCU’s Liberal Studies for Early and Elementary Education (LSEE) program in fall 2017, Griffin recently changed his major to the VCU School of Education’s B.S. Ed. in Elementary Education and Teaching. When he completes the program, he hopes to teach first or second grade and find new ways to help children succeed in the classroom.

What drew you to the field of education?

I’ve worked in banking for the past eight years. When I decided to go back to school to become a teacher, it was because I want to make a difference in the world and advocate for children and their education. I want to help children succeed and reach their goals, and meet the needs of my community.

Is there anyone who inspired you to pursue study in this field?

The person who inspired me the most is my mother. Growing up, she was my biggest advocate in school, and she made sure I had everything I needed to succeed. I want to be that person for children who may not have someone who will advocate for them.

Why VCU SOE?

I chose VCU SOE because of its diverse community. I want to be surrounded by different cultures and backgrounds to help me better connect to my students and the community where I teach once I get into the classroom. I love how VCU SOE prepares you for the classroom of today and the future.

What impressed you the most about the program during your first semester?

When I first transferred to VCU in the fall 2017 semester, I appreciated the fact that all of my professors were elementary classroom teachers before teaching at VCU. They are able to give real life situations and examples, because they have experienced them.

What would be your dream job?

My goal is to become a reading specialist. I want to help children discover the joys and benefits of reading.

What do you do to relax and have fun outside of school?

I am currently a full-time student, and I work full time. I use the weekends to recharge and have fun with my dogs, family and friends. I enjoy binge-watching different shows on Hulu and Netflix and taking my dogs to the park when the weather is nice.

Any tips for students who are considering coming to VCU SOE for the B.S.Ed. in Elementary Education?

Start building your community of teachers now. Your classmates in this program now may be your co-workers later. Building long-lasting connections now can help make the difference when you step into your future classroom.