10/09/2026
Student Spotlight: Toby Maziarz is a senior in the Early Childhood Education program whose path to teaching took an unexpected turn.
# # Tell us about your journey to Early Childhood Education
When I first came to UMass, I pursued an associate’s degree in turfgrass management, which I completed in spring 2025. At the same time, I was taking the prerequisite courses I needed to apply to the education program. Through those courses and my experiences working with children, I realized that education was the career I wanted. My background in turfgrass management has taught me the importance of patience, hands-on learning, and hard work.
# # Why is becoming an educator important to you?
It has been exciting to pursue two completely different passions during my time at UMass. When I first started college, I never expected that I would end up pursuing education, so having the opportunity to explore both turfgrass management and teaching has been really meaningful to me.
Also, I did not have many male teachers growing up. My first male classroom teacher was not until fifth grade, excluding specialist teachers. I understand from this experience how important it can be for young students, especially young boys, to have positive male role models in their classrooms. I hope to be that role model for my future students and show them that teaching is a career where men can make a meaningful difference.
# # What impact do you hope to make?
After graduation, I hope to find a kindergarten teaching position, while continuing to work on a golf course during the summers. Kindergarten is such an important time because students are beginning to develop their attitudes toward school and learning. I want to create a classroom where they are excited to learn, feel comfortable making mistakes, and are encouraged to keep improving. If I can help students build positive learning habits and leave my classroom with a positive attitude toward learning, I will feel like I have made a meaningful impact.
