Education breeds confidence, confidence breeds hope, hope breeds peace~Nelson Mandela
My Master's Journey in College Student Personnel 2023-2024
Introduction
Embarking on the College Student Personnel (CSP) program at WIU has been a transformative journey, guiding me through the intricate landscapes of student development and learning theories, histories, values, and philosophies. This program has equipped me with the tools to navigate contemporary issues, understand organizational and human resources, and master the methods of research and assessment. My engagement with leadership principles has further enriched this experience, shaping my approach to fostering growth in educational settings.
As I reflect on my journey, I am struck by the profound evolution I have undergone since beginning the program. This reflection serves to "take stock" of where I have traveled, where I currently stand, and the path I am carving for my future. Each outcome of the CSP program has contributed to my development, preparing me to face challenges and seize opportunities in the realm of higher education. Join me as I explore the milestones of my journey, celebrate the progress made, and envision the exciting road ahead.
"Like wood, your durability is tested, your finish is beautiful, and your ability to blend into the environment is flawless because you are the environment."
- Seana Williams-Rogers
Discover my journey and accomplishments, and if inspired, visit the WIU website to explore how they can support your own learning path.
My Work in Student Development and Theory
With nearly 15 years of experience as an educator and a lifelong learner, I have been profoundly transformed by recognizing the importance of my work, especially when grounded in theories that advance intrapersonal, interpersonal, and cognitive complexity. I invite you to explore the research I have conducted in this area.
My Higher Education Story, Philosophy and Values
Over the past year, I have had the opportunity to deeply explore student development, enabling me to confidently articulate the histories, values, and philosophies of higher education. I encourage you to explore the artifacts of my work in this exciting area of self discovery.
The Contemporary Issues I focused on during my journey
As institutions grapple with uncertainties in enrollment, student retention, and various other challenges, I value the extensive research I have conducted to address contemporary issues in higher education.
My Journey into Organizational and Human Resources
Student Affairs practice enables practitioners to define and assess organizational and human resources, including policies, practices, procedures, and structures. I have been exposed to these aspects, and I invite you to follow my journey in this regard.
The Methods of Research and Assessment I followed
One of the fundamental competencies in Student Affairs practice is the ability to gather, apply, and deploy methods of research and assessment to enhance student learning and higher education. This area challenged me significantly, and I am now proud to share the results of my efforts.
My Leadership Journey
Over my almost 15-year career in education, I have had the privilege of holding numerous leadership roles. In these positions, I have demonstrated leadership as both a role and a process to create inclusive learning environments, whether virtual or in-person, that support all students and campus community members while addressing issues of privilege, power, and oppression. Reflecting on these experiences has been invaluable as I approach new concepts, and opportunities.
So What's Next?
My motto, Aspire...Perspire...Inspire, is not linear but rather cyclical. When I embarked on my College Student Personnel journey, I aspired to deepen my knowledge and enhance my contributions to Student Affairs practice. Throughout the program, I perspired, enjoying the work and embracing the challenges while staying focused on my goal. Now, having completed the program, I am inspired by the experience and ready to face a new challenge. I now aspire to pursue doctoral studies in Educational Leadership, building on the strong foundation I gained in this program.
Go Leathernecks!
