Goals and Philosophy
Here you will find my professional goals and educational philosophy.
Professional Goals and Philosophy
Until May 2022, I was pursuing a Master of Science in Behavioral Science, which felt like a natural progression after earning my undergraduate degree in Psychology. Working at the university allowed me to benefit from a tuition waiver, but as the Spring semester began, I started to question whether I wanted to continue in the field of Psychology. My role as an Academic Success Coach involved coaching students on educational technology, and I discovered a genuine passion for helping them navigate and utilize these tools effectively.
This realization prompted me to explore programs that aligned more closely with my evolving professional interests. I found the Master of Science in Educational Technology at Oklahoma State University and took the leap to transition from a fully funded program to one that resonated with my aspirations. Since starting this program, I have not looked back. It has opened doors to alternative career paths in Instructional Design within both Higher Education and corporate settings, enhancing my ability to support students and engage meaningfully with faculty.
When I began the program in 2022, I knew I was interested in Instructional Design. My understanding of Instructional Design was limited at that time. However, my coursework has solidified my interest and deepened my comprehension of the field. I would like to pivot from my current student services role into an Instructional Design role in the near future. While I work towards that goal, I will continue developing my skills and knowledge of instructional design theories.
Prior to this program, I did not have much of a philosophy regarding education. I have spent a majority of my career working in Higher Education, but I have never taught students in the classroom. The experiences I have gained through my work, personal journey, and education have shaped my perspective on education. A core component of coaching in higher education is that the student is the expert of their life. I find this statement to be true throughout the field of education. I also believe in the importance of creating inclusive learning environments for all learners using Universal Design Principles. Furthermore, I embrace the idea that learning is a lifelong journey. Despite the knowledge I have gained so far, I remain dedicated to maintaining the mindset of a student and continuously expanding my understanding of the field.
This journey has been one of discovery and growth, and I am eager to apply my insights and skills to create engaging and effective learning experiences. I am passionate about empowering learners and committed to personal lifelong learning. In the future, I hope to always contribute positively to the educational landscape as I advance in my career.