Looking Back

I always enjoy looking back in the past.  I like to think about where I came from, where I am today, and where I am going.  It keeps me humble.  It helps me reflect and think about everything I have accomplished in such a short time.

After I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Michigan – Dearborn in April 2012, I knew the next step would be to obtain my Master’s.  As a teacher, it was important for me to continue my education and show my students the importance of being a life-long learner.  In November of 2012, I was already taking strides to obtain my goal of a Master’s.  I applied for my Master’s Degree in Educational Technology (MAET) at Michigan State University and University of Michigan – Dearborn.  It wasn’t hard to decide which school to attend.  Michigan State University offered online courses as well as an opportunity to study overseas.

Originally, I set out to learn how to incorporate technology in the classroom successfully.  In addition, I knew that many schools were beginning to make the shift towards 1:1 classrooms (where each student receives a laptop, or a tablet to complete class work).  I wanted to stay relevant and broaden my job prospects as a teacher.

Because of my Master’s, I have a new list of accomplishments.  I had the opportunity to study overseas in Ireland during the Summer of 2014.  During this time, I helped publish my first website for a conference, helped host a conference, and presented at my first conference.  My eyes were opened to a new outlook on the world.

In addition to amazing experiences, I changed careers.  I accepted a position in higher education as an Instructional Designer.  In this position, I use everything I learned throughout my course work and apply it on a daily basis.  I am no longer a teacher, but I often work with instructors to help them improve their courses by incorporating collaborative tools, using a combination of technological knowledge, content knowledge, and pedagogical knowledge (TPACK), and building websites.

Today, my goals have changed.  I no longer wish to use my educational technology knowledge for the classroom.  Instead, I wish to share the knowledge I have by learning how to teach other people to be teachers, and presenting at conferences.  I would love to broaden my knowledge base in Graphic Design or Photography, and obtain my PhD in Teaching and Learning.

Even though my goals have changed, without my original goals, I would have never had my eyes opened to new careers and new opportunities.  The world is my oyster and I plan to take advantage of these possibilities to the greatest of my ability.