Brittany Elizabeth Hansen

Growing up, I consistently told everyone I was going to be a teacher. From teaching swim lessons, to nannying, to sitting at the kid table at family reunions I have always sought out opportunities to be with kids. I admire their innocence and curiosity. I want to provide situations in which children can ask questions and learn through experiences. Being able to watch children gain their own understanding is what made me passionate about becoming a teacher.
I was born in Indiana but grew up in Southern California after my dad’s job moved us to the west coast. I am the second oldest of five kids. I was always been involved in something at school whether it was cross country, swim, choir, or student government. I started playing water polo my sophomore year of high school and found myself loving the camaraderie. I became team captain and played all three years.
I studied at Utah Valley University my first two semesters of college before deciding to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ. I served in Salvador, Brazil for 18 months where I learned Portuguese and was exposed to a whole new culture and lifestyle. On my mission, I taught different English courses to both children and adults. Following my mission, I decided to come to BYU and after two semesters, interviews with careers experts, and many self-reflections, I realized that I am happiest when I am teaching. I have enjoyed being in the elementary education program here at BYU. The experiences I have had at BYU, as well as working as a teaching assistant at the preschool and kindergarten on campus, teaching PE to the second graders at Salem Elementary as well as teaching first graders during my 1st practicum semester in Lindon.
My husband and I met in a religion class at BYU and have been married 2 years. He has taught me to love outdoor activities like hiking and snowboarding. We eventually want a big family but will start with getting a dog.