Ayden Brophy: From Student Aide to Aspiring Educator

By Anika Keese

As a transfer student studying wildlife biology, Ayden Brophy never imagined he would soon be pursuing a career in teaching at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

His passion for preserving nature gradually evolved into a desire to inspire that same appreciation in future students.

“I used to be a student aide in high school, and I would help lead study groups,” said Brophy, a junior biology education major at UNK. “I had never really thought about teaching, but I figured I would take one course and see how it goes.”

After just one introductory course, Brophy knew he was in the place he belonged. With his mother working in the school system and surrounded by many positive influences throughout his education, he developed a strong appreciation for learning and was ready to continue that legacy.

After just one introductory course, Brophy knew he was in the place he belonged. With his mother working in the school system and surrounded by many positive influences throughout his education, he developed a strong appreciation for learning and was ready to continue that legacy.

“I want to help students find their scientific identity,” Brophy said. “That is another reason I am going into environmental sciences … there are more branches other than biology or chemistry, and I want to help students figure out what interests them.”

Driven by a unique passion for the field, Brophy aspires to be what his science teachers were to him — a source of encouragement and a guide for curiosity.

Brophy was a recipient of the UNK College of Education Dean’s Scholarship. The scholarship provided an opportunity that deepened his passion for teaching and allowed him to thrive in various areas of campus life during his academic journey.

“Donors play a vital role in shaping the future of education, and their support doesn’t just help students like me financially,” he said. “It also gives us a chance to grow and become the kind of educators that we want to be to make a difference across the classrooms.”

With help from donors, Brophy has been more involved on campus and spent more time with his peers. To Brophy, the scholarship is not just about financial support. It also lets him enjoy college life as a student.

“They are supporting the next generation of teachers and helping new teachers understand that they are needed and wanted,” Brophy said. “It makes an immeasurable impact.”

To support the development of future educators and ensure tomorrow’s students receive the guidance they deserve, please consider donating to the UNK Fund – College of Education Student Scholarships.