
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.