I know what it is like to be contemplating if you can fit just one more thing on your plate. Going back to school while working can sound like a hefty task. Think of this choice as creating a support system for what you are already doing in your daily life. Be proud of that decision and have joy in the big step you are making. After I made that leap to continue my education, I started looking for what school I would go to for my master’s degree. My reasons for choosing the University of Saint Joseph were based on three categories: the people, the format, and the courses.
USJ Reputation and Enthusiastic, Engaging Professors
It was important for me that the professors were experienced in teaching and passionate about the program of multiple intelligences. Know that the professors have been in your shoes, and some are actually still wearing those shoes. They understand how it feels to juggle teaching and coming together for graduate classes. They may also be teaching in other districts, states, or countries. Some professors are veteran teachers with a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the demands that accompany working in a school. The professors are able to give direct support to your unique situation.
From my experience with the University of Saint Joseph, I found the professors were able to give assignments that built upon the work we would already need to do. Many times, professors were able to adjust their plans to fit the needs of the cohort, rather than plug away at syllabus. It is refreshing that the professors can act just the way we would be expected to act for our own students. Therefore, I was able to implement what I was learning right away.
It was much easier to practice multiple intelligences theory when part of my assignment would be to create a lesson or unit directly related to what I was learning about. My students were better off by it, and I was able to solidify my understanding of the material by truly incorporating it into my job.
The professors were engaged in the lessons as much as the students were. They joined us in dancing, singing, performing, making art, teaching, and so much more. Each course was presented by one or more professors who had their own enthusiasm and passion for multiple intelligences. It was the different views and appreciations by each professor that helped me find what parts of the program spoke to me the most.
Cohort Connections
It isn’t just the professors that will be a support for you. The cohort connections are equally valuable. I partially chose this program because of the opportunity to work with a common cohort over the entire program.
These friendships will be with you through every class. The cohort you are with will help you make the connection between courses, the different professors, and the different classroom venues. When you are thriving, they celebrate with you. When you are stressed, they are empathizing with you. However, knowing that you are in it together makes the growth just that much more exciting. I finished classes with my cohort about two and a half years ago, I live more than an hour away from most of them, and yet I am still in a group chat with them from time to time.
Convenient Program Format
Another big reason I chose to attend the University of Saint Joseph’s is because of the program format that was offered with the master’s in education with multiple intelligence theory concentration. There were some courses held on a satellite campus and some held on the university campus. It was helpful to have the satellite campus as an option during the school year since it was closer to my work.
The schedule format was also key to continuing other aspects of my life. Most of my classes were an accelerated eight-week course, which I attended on the satellite campus once a week for several hours. As a teacher who also takes on after-school responsibilities, I was happy to be able to continue supporting students after school since I only had to give up one day after school for my master’s. Then, I was able to get my schoolwork for the graduate program done in the evenings and the weekends. I went to the university campus for a few summer courses, which was easier to manage with a typical teacher’s schedule. I was attracted to the big picture schedule of the program as well. I was able to complete my masters in less than two years. Trust me, it flies by!
The format of the courses also ensured that I attend class live. I knew that I didn’t want to do online classes at the time, because I was looking to make those interpersonal connections. I also felt strongly that certain courses in the program would be better in person, such as art, music, and dance.
I was most excited for the courses that were offered with the multiple intelligences program. It was amazing to find a program where I would be able to explore writing, music, art, dance, theater, and so much more. The cohort I was with mirrored the diversity of the course topics. Each person came with their own experience from different districts, grade levels, and subject areas. It was the perfect choice for me and a wonderful journey!
After hearing about all that the University of Saint Joseph has to offer, why wait any longer to start the next chapter in your educational journey? Explore our programs and enroll today!