The student-athlete, transfer, and Dual-Degree student shares her story
June 2025 – When Grace Hezel C’24, G’25 transferred to Drew University in her junior year, she didn’t yet know how her journey would flourish. She found herself at Drew for their renowned art program, the Dual-Degree program in Teaching, and a spot on Drew’s women’s basketball team.
Hezel earned her Bachelor of Arts in Art, and then continued straight into Drew’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program. “Originally at Moravian, I was an art education major,” she said. “There was always that debate—do you just get your art education major, or go for a dual degree? I knew I wanted the dual degree. As a teacher, you’re eventually going to need your master’s.”
Drew’s MAT program proved transformative. Hezel credits professors Cathryn Devereaux, assistant professor of education; Maureen O’Sullivan, coordinator of candidate assessment and clinical partnerships; and Nancy Vitalone-Raccaro, associate professor of teacher education; for helping her build her teaching skills and the confidence to lead a classroom. “That fifth year really helped my confidence grow as a person and as a teacher.”
She spent her clinical internship at Summit Middle School, where she felt an instant connection with the students. Now, she’s actively seeking an art teaching position in either a middle or elementary school, inspired by her positive experience and the support she received at her internship.
Hezel’s time at Drew was enriched by more than just academics. She participated in the New York Semester in Contemporary Art—her first experience of the city. “Drew provided me the opportunity to go into the city and learn about artists, museums, and gain knowledge I never had before,” she said. “It was so fun and such a good experiential learning opportunity.”
On campus, Hezel found community in more ways than one. She played basketball for Drew—and even shared the court with her younger sister, Brenna Hezel C’26. “It became a family affair,” she said. “It really gave me a great opportunity to grow as a person. I was able to learn to work with a team, and that dynamic of being an athlete and an artist was a unique and fortunate experience.”
For prospective students, especially those considering Drew’s Dual-Degree pathway, Hezel offered simple but powerful advice. “Push yourself, be open to opportunities and learning,” she said. “That’s what helped carry me through my years at Drew University.”
At Drew, she found a place that allowed her to thrive—academically, artistically, and athletically. “Drew really helps you grow as a person,” said Hezel. “I was able to be a student, play the sport I love, and prepare for the career I’m passionate about.”
