By Terry Neumann, University Relations intern

Spectrum Volume 17 Issue 27 - April 6, 1995

For Greg Abel and his family, it could be said that teaching runs in the blood. There are three members of his family working as teachers, and he plans to be the fourth.

Abel has been named the Outstanding Senior for the College of Education.

Abel decided to attend Tech because he wanted to be an engineer. It took him only two months to realize engineering wasn't for him.

Abel said that he needed something more interactive and hands-on, and he decided technology education was the field he wanted to study. He chose this major for the practical experience that it offered him.

Abel is currently student teaching at a magnet school in the City of Roanoke that combines high-school and middle-school students. "What's really exciting about teaching is seeing the students get excited when they discover something new," Abel said. He enjoys working with middle-school students and would like to teach that age group.

Abel said he made the most of his education because he knows how fortunate he is to have this opportunity. His twin brother is both mentally and physically handicapped. The friendship they share has motivated Abel to take full advantage of his abilities. Being raised in a household where education was such a strong issue allowed him to gain a good understanding of what it takes to be a supportive teacher.

His time at Tech has been especially fulfilling since he has become involved in student organizations. He is president of the Student Virginia Education Association, which helps prepare students through professional development. Abel says he is extremely involved with the club and works to keep their programs at a high level. He is vice president and international secretary of the Technology Education Collegiate Association, and is responsible for producing the annual report, writing for the newsletter, and planning meetings. He was a student ambassador in the Recruiting Student Volunteer Program where he conducted tours of the campus.