Chloe Troutman '23 Teaches STEAM Education in Ireland on Matt's Maker Space Fellowship Alumni Profile
Meet Chloe Troutman
- Job Title & Employer
- Matt's Maker Space Fellowship, SEK International School, Dublin
- Job Title & Employer
- Teacher, Environmental Charter School
- 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
- Now Living In
- Pittsburgh, Pa. |Greystones, Ireland until Nov. 2025
- 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."
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 are you doing in your fellowship?
During my fellowship, I am teaching 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 prioritize offering my support in areas of need. Right now, I am leading 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. Currently, we are starting the process of integrating sign language education into our students’ day-to-day lives to bridge communication gaps for our student population.
I am also leading a Bridging Cultures group where students are exposed to many elements of different cultures, such as traditions, languages and art. Each week, we "journey" to a different country, where students choose a cultural aspect to research and share with the group. Together, we highlight the importance of respecting all traditions and honoring the people who keep them alive. The Bridging Cultures group is more than a classroom activity — it’s a supportive community where we celebrate one another and uplift 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 have been eager to return ever since. I am 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’m gaining so much, both professionally and personally. I’m learning 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’m growing personally by stepping outside of my comfort zone, adapting to new environments and embracing fresh perspectives. This time has reminded me how powerful collaboration, creativity and cultural exchange can be — not only in the classroom, but in my own life.
What’s it like living in Ireland?
It truly feels like a dream — I feel completely at home here. I’m living 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 and so many more still waiting to be discovered.
The public transportation, especially the DART, has been a game-changer. The station is just a 20-minute walk from my home, and from there I can be in Dublin’s city center in about 45 minutes — all while soaking in the breathtaking coastal views. Most days, I bring a book and alternate between reading and gazing out the train window. It feels 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.
There is still so much to explore here, and that sense of discovery is endlessly exciting!
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.
Learn more about the Matt's Maker Space Labs & Fellowship
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More About: special education, School of Education Alumni, School of Education, education, elementary education