I knew from my research that BSU offered one of the best education programs, and can say confidently, after four years here, it really is. The faculty, the work we do, it all sets you up to have a solid foundation, for you to become a great teacher.
When Karl Badiola, ’26, moved to the United States from the Philippines at just 15 years old, he did his best to adjust.
Despite his excitement about living in a new country, he underestimated how difficult the transition would be — especially being away from his parents, learning a new language and culture.
For example, he was accustomed to standing up to answer questions in class, but when he did so here, he said, “I saw the confused looks on my classmates’ faces.”
He said he often felt lost, particularly when learning to speak English.
“A lot of times when someone is learning to speak English in a classroom, they appear slow or shy, but the reality is it’s because they have to pause and think about how to translate,” Badiola said.
He is grateful to his high school guidance counselor, who offered support and was a big part of the reason he was able not only to adapt but to thrive.
That personal connection inspired him. When it came time to decide what he wanted to do after high school, Badiola knew exactly which path he was going to take: teaching.
He brought his dream to Bridgewater State University, where he recently earned a degree in early childhood education and childhood studies.
“I knew from my research that BSU offered one of the best education programs, and can say confidently, after four years here, it really is. The faculty, the work we do, it all sets you up to have a solid foundation, for you to become a great teacher,” Badiola said.
While at Bridgewater, he was initially going to sign up for an English as a Second Language course, but retired Professor Lou Ann Falls recognized that Badiola was more proficient than he realized.
“Instead of taking the class, she asked me if I wanted to be a tutor instead,” he said.
He secured a job working in the Academic Achievement Center helping others learn English. It opened up many other opportunities for him and made him feel welcomed and personally connected with faculty and students.
“Because of that first job, it made me want to be a larger part of the community,” he said.
Badiola went on to participate in the honors program, became a math tutor, and worked as a peer mentor in Student Accessibility Services.
“I noticed that all of these experiences have really helped me and are connected with how I want to teach in my own classroom,” he said.
From supporting multilingual students or helping those who might need special instruction, Badiola feels prepared to lead his own classroom.
His involvement didn’t go unnoticed. At the conclusion of his senior year, Badiola was honored with a “Bridgewater Best” award during the annual BSU Impact Awards ceremony. The award recognizes graduating seniors for their outstanding impact on the BSU community.
“When they mentioned my name, to know I made a lasting impact at BSU…I was shocked,” he said.
As he leaves Bridgewater State to continue his journey, he encourages others to get involved.
“You can’t make an impact if you’re not involved. There are so many activities here — jobs, internships, study abroad, volunteer opportunities. The choices are endless,” he said. “Being involved, meeting different people, and the lasting impact of those connections — that’s what made me love BSU.”
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