James Garner-McDonald '25 Recruiting Profile

As a rising senior, I am excited to embark on the next chapter of my academic and athletic journey, fueled by my passion for both early childhood education and hockey. My interest in teaching and engaging with young children has been evident since elementary school, and my experiences volunteering at the Goddard School and serving as a counselor-in-training and a counselor at Camp Puh'tok have only deepened my commitment to pursuing a career in childhood education.

Looking back on the past few years, I realize that hockey has significantly shaped who I am today. The lessons I've learned through this sport—such as teamwork, perseverance, and discipline—have been invaluable. The adrenaline rush when stepping onto the ice, the strong bonds formed with teammates, and the sense of pride after overcoming challenges are experiences that have genuinely molded my character and instilled a strong work ethic within me. 

My educational journey has been enriched by experiences that have solidified my desire to pursue a career in early childhood education. Serving as a counselor-in-training for two consecutive summers and a day camp counselor at Camp Puh’tok in the Pines provided me with firsthand knowledge of the rewards and challenges of working with children. In that role, I discovered my natural ability to connect with elementary-aged children, creating a safe, encouraging, and fun environment for them to grow. Building on this foundation, I eagerly pursued an internship in a 4-year-old preschool classroom at the Goddard School of White Marsh, where I learned the fundamentals of teaching young learners through activities and play, gaining invaluable hands-on experience.

When I was 11 years old, I had an unexpected meet-and-greet encounter with Connor Hobbs from the Hershey Bears that ignited my passion for hockey. Watching his skill and dedication on the ice and his kindness in connecting with me inspired me to pursue the sport despite having never skated before. From that moment, hockey became more than just a game—it became a source of passion, discipline, and personal growth.

As a dual enrollment high school student, I am currently taking college courses at my local community college while completing my high school curriculum. This experience has demonstrated my readiness for college and my ability to handle the academic rigors that come with it. Despite the demanding schedule of balancing academics with travel and high school hockey, I have consistently managed my time effectively to excel in both areas, demonstrating my organizational skills and dedication.

As I look ahead to college, I am excited to continue pursuing my passions both on the ice and in the classroom.  I am open to all the right college hockey opportunities that align with my desire to study childhood education. With unwavering dedication towards academics and hockey, I am confident I will thrive and make the most of my college years. 

Teaching and hockey complement each other in many ways. Both require patience, adaptability, and a genuine desire to help others reach their potential. By combining my passion for childhood education with my love for hockey, I aim to become a well-rounded individual who can make meaningful contributions in both fields and inspire others to pursue their dreams with confidence.