Mya Winton
Early Childhood Education,
Class of 2025
From Tulsa, Oklahoma
Meet Mya Winton, an OU alum whose passion for supporting students grew into a career shaped by her experiences at OU‑Tulsa. As a recent alum and 2024–2025 Early Childhood Education Intern of the Year, Mya found confidence, purpose, and a sense of belonging while completing her degree. Through supportive faculty, real classroom experience, and a community that believed in her potential, Mya uncovered her passion for teaching and the impact she wanted to make in the classroom and beyond.
While at TCC, OU-Tulsa reached out to let our class know about the Bridging the Gap Scholarship program that supports students pursuing an Associate degree in Child Development. I had no idea the program even existed. The program literally connects TCC students to OU, and you have someone there for you the entire time. I could text an OU representative, “Hey, what do I do now?” and they would walk me through every step. They made the process so smooth; that’s why it felt so easy.
I feel like an OU degree has been very valuable to my career. The practicality of being in Tulsa is great, and having the University of Oklahoma name behind me really matters.
My education was very well-rounded. I didn’t realize how much we needed to know or how many different areas we would cover. There were full classes on really important topics, like childhood trauma, which is so relevant, and special education, even though we weren’t majoring in it, we will work with those students no matter what.
I loved the program. I felt so prepared leaving, even though it was intimidating to go out on my own. The professors are incredibly supportive, and they build strong relationships with you. Even now, I can still email or text professors I had and ask them questions.
I left OU knowing I was fully supported, and that means so much.
The drive behind being in this profession is truly to make a difference. You can make an impact in a lot of professions, but there’s no denying that with this degree, you’re changing the lives of future generations. You become the support a child needs. Being a teacher means showing up for kids every day as someone who is excited to see them and support them, whether they have that at home or not. I’m incredibly grateful for this degree because it allows me to be that person for my students.
I loved this experience, and I recommend it every chance I get. I’ve already spoke to upcoming cohorts about this program.
The professors, the relationships, and the intimate campus setting make such a difference.
OU–Tulsa does an amazing job building a community. There are always free events, campus activities, and opportunities to connect. You can be fully immersed in college life, build meaningful relationships, and feel supported.
