A 2023 Selected Studies in Education (SSE) and Sociology double major, Rebecca (Luyao) Kang ‘23 is currently studying for an Education Policy master’s degree at the University of Pennsylvania. During her SSE internship, Kang was a student consultant to the Partnership for Inclusive Education and Students Consulting on Education.
Originally from China, in her home country she has experience as an English teacher, intern and volunteer at China Next Generation Education Foundation, and a Summer Camp Leader at the China Children and Teenagers’ Fund.
PAST: What memory from your time at SU/SOE do you most cherish?
I always have been proud of being part of SOE. One of the most cherished memories is the incredible support and encouragement I received from my professors and advisors. Their passion for education and dedication to their students created an environment where I felt truly empowered to grow academically and professionally.
I also treasure the diverse opportunities the school provided. These experiences not only honed my skills but also deepened my commitment to creating equitable and impactful education systems.
Additionally, I’m proud of the hands-on teaching and consulting opportunities I had during my time there. Collaborating with K-12 educators on inclusive education initiatives and working directly with students from diverse backgrounds taught me the importance of communication, adaptability, and fostering a supportive learning environment. These moments remind me why I am passionate about education and continue to inspire me in my career journey.
PRESENT: What are you working on now that you’d like to share with fellow alums?
Currently, I am pursuing my master’s degree in education policy at the University of Pennsylvania, which has been an incredible opportunity to deepen and expand upon the foundation I built during my time at SOE.
“I envision a society where every child, regardless of circumstances, background, or ability, has fair access to high-quality education and the necessary tools to succeed.”
As part of this journey, I am working as a Graduate Assistant at Penn’s Weingarten Center, where I help support disability services and collaborate with students to foster a more inclusive and accessible learning environment. This experience has been particularly meaningful as it allows me to combine my passion for education with a commitment to equity and accessibility. It also builds on my earlier work at Syracuse, where I engaged with K-12 schools and educators on similar initiatives.
FUTURE: What is your hope for the future of education and learning?
I envision a society where every child, regardless of circumstances, background, or ability, has fair access to high-quality education and the necessary tools to succeed. In my ideal educational institutions, diversity is acknowledged and, each student feels noticed, appreciated, and supported. They are also flexible, creative, and inclusive.
To address systemic injustices and promote legislation prioritizing holistic development, social-emotional learning, and chances for lifelong learning, I also hope that communities, educators, and legislators will work together more closely.
Education can change people’s lives, and I hope to help create structures that enable students to realize their greatest potential while cultivating a feeling of purpose and community.