For Emily Bee Johnson, an alumna of Asbury University’s online Elementary Education P–5 program, pursuing her dream of becoming a teacher meant finding a way to balance education, work, and married life. Now in her fifth year as a third-grade English Language Arts (ELA) teacher at Mercer County Intermediate School, Johnson reflects on how Asbury’s flexible online program and supportive Christian community helped prepare her for the classroom.
A resident of Harrodsburg, Kentucky, Johnson knew from an early age that she wanted to become a teacher. From playing school with her stuffed animals to learning from inspiring educators in Mercer County, her passion for education began long before she entered college.
Johnson initially attended Asbury as a traditional undergraduate student before transitioning to the online program after getting married. The flexibility allowed her to continue working while completing her degree without sacrificing the meaningful relationships and academic preparation she valued.
We asked Emily to reflect on her Asbury Online experience.
“I have always wanted to be a teacher, from playing school with my stuffed animals as a young girl to being inspired by the amazing educators I had at Mercer County. I attended Asbury, beginning as a traditional student before switching to the online program after getting married, which allowed me to work while completing my degree. Even as an online student, I felt connected to campus and had an incredible college experience that prepared me for the career I had dreamed of since I was little.”
For Johnson, Asbury Online provided the opportunity to pursue her professional calling while balancing life’s changing responsibilities. The program’s flexibility allowed her to continue her education while maintaining a connection to the Asbury community.
“I truly had the best college experience, even while completing my degree online,” Johnson said. “My experience at Asbury was such a positive one that I always recommend Asbury University to any high school student I talk to. It gave me the flexibility I needed while still providing me with an experience that prepared me for the career I had dreamed about since I was a little girl.”
“I cannot brag enough about the professors at Asbury. They supported me throughout my transition to online learning and always made me feel cared for and never alone. I loved that each class began with prayer and that Christ remained at the center of my education. My education professors helped shape me into the educator I am today, and I could not be more grateful!”
Johnson credits her professors with providing personal encouragement and academic guidance throughout her educational journey. Even in an online learning environment, she experienced the individualized attention and Christ-centered support that characterize an Asbury education.
“Teaching, and learning how to become a teacher, is no easy job, and my professors understood that. They were always willing to help with assignments and would let you call or text when you felt confused or overwhelmed. Even through an online platform, they made sure you never felt alone. They checked in, made sure you were doing okay, and genuinely cared about their students.”
She added, “I loved all of the professors I had at Asbury, especially my education professors. They helped mold me into the educator I am today, and I could not be more grateful. There truly is no staff quite like the Asbury University staff.”
Today, Johnson is living out the dream she first imagined as a young girl. As a third-grade ELA teacher at Mercer County Intermediate School, she is now investing in the next generation of students in the same community where her own passion for education began.
Her journey reflects how Asbury University’s online programs provide opportunities for students to pursue their academic and professional goals while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. Through flexible learning, meaningful faculty relationships, and a Christ-centered approach to education, Johnson found the preparation and encouragement she needed to enter the teaching profession.
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