Today we’d like to introduce you to Quintin Bostic.
Quintin, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am originally from Augusta, Georgia, but have been living in Atlanta since 2008. When first beginning my undergraduate career at Georgia State University, my major was Biology. During my first semester, I began working at a child development research center. I had no intention of ever diving into education until one significant experience in the classroom. At the beginning of the school year, a young African American male walked into my class and said, “Hey! Are you my teacher? You look like me.” This moment made me realize that by being in the classroom, I could be much more than a teacher. I can not only serve as a positive role model to young black boys but help to shift the narrative and perspective surrounding African American men in society. The very next day, I changed my major to B-5 Education, and I have never looked back since then. After completing my Master’s degree in Urban Teacher Leadership, I began to pursue my Ph.D. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. Since then, I have been honored to be the recipient of the Bonnie Campbell Hill National Literacy Leader Award, Georgia State 40 under 40 Class of 2019, received multiple scholarships and fellowships, presented research on state and national levels, served as a keynote speaker for multiple events, and much more.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
If I said it was a smooth road, I would be lying. I live by the bible verses James 1:2-4. They state, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” One moment, in particular, that I remember vividly is going to receive a national level award, and when walking into the room for a luncheon, I was approached at the entrance and asked, “Why are you here?” I responded by saying that I was the recipient of the national level award, and was invited. At this moment, I could have responded negatively, but I decided that keeping my joy and being patient was much more important. Unfortunately, I work in a field in which I am a minority, so I face challenges every day. I have learned that these experiences help me to build patience and strength. More importantly, there are young black boys who need men like me in the field of education to ensure that they are provided with the foundation and tools necessary for a bright and successful future.
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I currently serve as an Undergraduate Instructor at Georgia State University. I teach courses surrounding technology and writing in early childhood classrooms. I specialize in research surrounding the representation of diversity within children’s literature. Specifically, I am interested in the ways that African American boys are represented within picture books. I absolutely love what I do! I love working with undergraduate students and helping them to think critically about ways in which to expose their students to various diverse topics, whether its race/ethnicity, gender, religion, language, etc. To be honest, the one thing that sets me apart from others is that not only am I an African American male teaching in higher education, but I am also one of the youngest doing it.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I do not consider myself lucky, I like to think that I am fortunate. I am fortunate to have a loving and supportive family, friends, and mentors who keep me motivated during tough times. I am fortunate to have been/be in spaces and environments that help me to grow, learn and thrive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.childrensliteratureassembly.org/bch-award.html
- Phone: 404-857-8162
- Email: quintin555b@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrquintin/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/quintin.bostic.5
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