Carmen Pedersen

Alumni Office, Nutritional Sciences

FACS mentors inspired Pedersen to pursue a career in higher education

Major/year graduated

BSFCS, Family and Consumer Sciences Education, 2009

Current occupation/location

Clinical Assistant Professor for the Department of Workforce Education and Instructional Technology, University of Georgia

What do you love about your current role?

I get the opportunity to work with current and future Family and Consumer Sciences teachers, preparing them to help students learn essential skills they'll use throughout life.

How did your time at FACS help prepare you for your life or career?:

As a student in the College of Family and Consumer Sciences, I took classes in all four FACS departments. I was motivated by so many of my professors and instructors, which inspired me to consider teaching at the higher education level. Prior to this, I had only considered teaching middle and high school students.

What is one memorable experience you had as a student in FACS?

 I was fortunate enough to have several memorable experiences as a FACS student. I remember attending several American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) annual conferences as well as two FACS retreats during my time. However, my favorite memory is representing the Student Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (SAFCS) as a member of Homecoming Court 2009. The outpouring of support from alumni, students, faculty, and staff was incredibly motivating and meaningful. 

How do you stay connected to UGA or the FACS community?

As a student, I was an officer for the Student Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (SAFCS). I am an active member of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) and the Georgia Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (GAFCS). As a member of these organizations, I've earned scholarships and professional awards and networked with FACS professionals across the state and nation, helping me stay connected to the FACS community.