Why Marymount University?
One reason I selected MU is because of the ability to do the work online, so that it worked with my work schedule. The other reason is that I liked the idea of writing my Dissertation in Practice (DiP) throughout the program and in smaller pieces rather than trying to fit it all into one or two semesters like I had to do with my master's degree.
What do you hope to accomplish by earning an Ed.D. degree?
I chose to get an Ed.D. rather than a Ph.D. because I want to be a strong leader in my classroom and within academia as a whole. This program gave me tools that go beyond having a strong knowledge of literature. I also really wanted to study trauma-informed pedagogy as a way to support my students and my faculty as well.
My long-term goal is to write a book from the work I have completed in my DiP. I also currently work in a residential treatment facility as a teacher, and I would like to one day be the director of this program or another local program.
Tell us a bit about your background.
I have taught English composition and critical thinking for over 16 years at a local community college, where I also ran an incarcerated student program. I began working as a teacher at a local residential treatment facility. Prior to starting this program, I also ran a local non-profit.
What motivates you to complete an online program?
I want to be a doctor, but more importantly, I want to take the skills and knowledge I have gained and share it with other people who teach and work with students impacted by trauma. I am also motivated by potentially becoming an education/academic director one day.
What do you think of the Ed.D. program so far?
Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed this program. My favorite class was the ethics class at the beginning of the program. I found it fascinating to think about how it can be applied to any position of power, even when you don't feel like you are in a position of power.
My other favorite thing has been the research. I always knew I loved research, but this really solidified it for me; reviewing the work of others and writing about it and seeing where there are gaps have taught me so much. I also love the friendships I have made.
What is the biggest highlight of your experience?
The people I have met and the friendships I have made. I would also say that another highlight has just been seeing my ability to do this. There was a moment in the first year where I thought I had made a very expensive mistake, but as I continued to forge ahead, I started believing that I did belong and I was going to be successful in completing this program.
