Meet Chloe Troutman
Major/Program
Education Pre-K – 4th Grade
Minor
Dual Certification in Special Education Pre-K – 12th Grade
Graduation
2023
Hometown
Northumberland, Pa.
High School
Shikellamy High School
Hobbies & Interests
I love making art, reading, camping, hiking and spending time with my animals, friends and family, and I absolutely love traveling. I’m passionate about mental health and social-emotional learning in education and am currently on track to pursue my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to become a therapist.
“The Matt’s Maker Space Fellowship felt like the perfect opportunity to align with my priorities as an educator — immersing myself in new cultures, engaging with diverse approaches to learning and stepping outside of my comfort zone to explore an international curriculum.”
Chloe Troutman
When Chloe Troutman ’23 was completing her undergraduate degree at Point Park University, she had the opportunity to student teach in Ireland as part of the School of Education‘s partnership with SEK International School. Two years later, she’s returned to Ireland, this time on the Matt’s Maker Space Fellowship, which is open to any School of Education alumni.
Learn more about her experience and how to apply for this unique opportunity.
What did you do during your fellowship?
During my fellowship, I taught alongside SEK Dublin’s Maker Space teacher, lifting up STEAM education as a crucial part of the modern inquirer’s education. We challenge students to think outside the box during our various Design and Computer Science courses as they are tasked with addressing real-world, complex scenarios.
In addition, I prioritized offering my support in areas of need. I led the Middle Year Program 1 (MYP1) International Baccalaureate (IB) community project, a service-learning plan in which students are tasked with addressing a need in their community and planning actionable change. We started the process of integrating sign language education into our students’ day-to-day lives to bridge communication gaps for our student population.
I also led a Bridging Cultures group where students were exposed to many elements of different cultures, such as traditions, languages and art. Each week, we “journeyed” to a different country, where students chose a cultural aspect to research and shared with the group. Together, we highlighted the importance of respecting all traditions and honoring the people who keep them alive. The Bridging Cultures group was more than a classroom activity — it was a supportive community where we celebrated one another and uplifted one another’s ideas.
Why did you apply for the fellowship?
The Matt’s Maker Space Fellowship felt like the perfect opportunity to align with my priorities as an educator — immersing myself in new cultures, engaging with diverse approaches to learning and stepping outside of my comfort zone to explore an international curriculum like the IB. I absolutely loved my experience in Ireland when I student taught here in March 2023, and I was eager to return. I was also passionate about advancing my teaching practice in STEAM education, as I believe learning becomes most meaningful when it emphasizes inquiry, research and reflection.
What are you learning through this opportunity?
From this experience, I gained so much, both professionally and personally. I learned how inquiry-based learning and STEAM practices can be meaningfully applied within the IB framework, while also exploring new ways to support diverse learners and integrate cultural perspectives into my teaching. At the same time, I grew personally by stepping outside of my comfort zone, adapting to new environments and embracing fresh perspectives. This time reminded me how powerful collaboration, creativity and cultural exchange can be — not only in the classroom, but in my own life.
What was it like living in Ireland?
It truly felt like a dream — I felt completely at home here. I lived in a similar area to where I stayed before, and it’s amazing to see the east coast of Ireland through a slightly older lens. There are familiar places I now appreciate in new ways.
The public transportation, especially the DART, was a game-changer. The station was just a 20-minute walk from my home, and from there I could be in Dublin’s city center in about 45 minutes — all while soaking in the breathtaking coastal views. Most days, I brought a book and alternate between reading and gazing out the train window. It felt surreal to be surrounded by landscapes that seem straight out of a fairy tale, and even more magical to fall asleep to the sound of the ocean’s waves every night.
Why would you recommend someone apply for this fellowship?
I would wholeheartedly recommend this fellowship because it offers the rare chance to grow as both an educator and as a person. Professionally, it pushes you to think more deeply about inquiry-based learning, STEAM and the way culture shapes education. Personally, it gives you the space to step outside your comfort zone, immerse yourself in a new community and see the world through fresh perspectives.
Beyond the classroom, the experience is truly life-changing — whether it’s forming meaningful connections, exploring a new culture or simply finding joy in the everyday moments. If you’re looking for a fellowship that will challenge you, inspire you and leave a lasting impact, this is it.
Why would you recommend Point Park’s School of Education to a prospective student?
I would recommend Point Park’s School of Education because the program truly prepares you to be a well-rounded and adaptable teacher. The professors bring real-world experience into the classroom, and the smaller class sizes mean you’re not just a number — you’re part of a supportive community where your voice matters. Point Park also places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and field experiences, so you’re out in schools early, gaining the confidence and practical skills you need to succeed.
What stood out to me most was how much the program values both professional growth and personal connection. You’re encouraged to explore different approaches to teaching, reflect on your practice and find your own voice as an educator — all while being supported by mentors who genuinely care about your success. I’ve built connections with my professors and colleagues that I know will last a lifetime.
To learn more about Matt’s Maker Space Fellowship or apply, visit pointpark.edu/school-of-education-seeking-applicants-for-inaugural-matts-maker-space-fellowship-in-ireland.