Future Teachers Association president is passionate about early childhood education

HFC student Diamond J. Arnold, president of the HFC Future Teachers Association, is passionate about creating safe and fun learning environments where young children can learn and grow.

“It inspires me to see the progress of a child and watch their confidence grow as they understand the world around them,” said Arnold.

The youngest of 4, Arnold was born and raised in Detroit, where she lives with her fiancée and children.

Arnold, who has been a ballet dancer since she was 7, graduated from the Arts Academy in the Woods in Fraser in 2014. After graduation, she attended Macomb Community College, where she earned her associate degree in arts in 2017. She came to HFC in early 2023 and will earn her associate degree in pre-education in 2025. From there, she plans to transfer to complete her bachelor’s degree at the University of Michigan-Dearborn.

“Because I am a working mom and partner, UM-Dearborn's program works best for me,” she said. “They recently opened an online option, so I can work on my degree from home.”

Future Teachers Association opened a door to a whole new world

“I have always had a passion for teaching early childhood education,” said Arnold. “I was researching career paths within this field after I had my twins, and came across the HFC website, which led to me starting classes at the College. It’s been great ever since.”

Arnold sees herself becoming a school principal down the road.

“I would like to get into administration and eventually become a principal. Currently, I really enjoy working in the classroom and being more ‘in the field,’” she said. “I plan to teach at the elementary level, so I will be teaching the core subjects of English and language arts, science, and math.”

Arnold has been the president of the HFC FTA since the beginning of the 2023-24 academic year. Her term will end when she graduates from the College. HFC Pre-Education Director Dr. Carolyn Casale, who is also the FTA faculty advisor, is Arnold’s mentor.

“As president, I have raised awareness about the club and pre-ed at HFC in general. I have gotten funding for speakers' events with the help of our faculty advisor. I co-host our biweekly meetings, attend to email inquiries from students, and plan events that help us gain members,” she said. “FTA has opened a door to a whole new world for me. We visit an elementary school several times each semester to experience teaching firsthand. I'm able to chat on WhatsApp or Zoom about any questions or comments I have concerning my courses or transferring. I've met many like-minded people in my field.”

An honor to be among the brilliant minds of HFC

Casale is proud of Arnold’s accomplishments.

“Diamond is not only a smart, reflective practitioner, but also very hard-working," said Casale. "She has so many things going on in her life and manages multiple tasks to be successful. She is always eager to take on new responsibilities. She is a self-starter, has an ambitious outlook, shows respect for authority, and shares a positive attitude. Diamond is always interested in doing her best.”

Arnold has amazed by the school spirit she has discovered at HFC. It's one of the best parts of being a student at the College.

“To start your education at HFC is investing in yourself, your future, and your family's future. Many adults start at a community college to transfer to a 4-year university. In my experience, HFC’s transfer program is seamless,” she said. “There is constant support that's always offered. HFC is filled with hardworking go-getters. It's an honor to be among such brilliant minds.”