Graduate Student Spotlight

Curriculum and Instruction MED

Student Name: Ann-Terese Hill

Program: M. Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with Specialization in Instructional Coaching

Hometown:  New Braunfels, Texas

Undergraduate Institution: The University of Texas at Austin

Graduation Year: UT Austin (Spring 1994) UT Tyler (Fall 2020)

Why did you choose to attend UT Tyler?

I chose UT Tyler because it was part of the elite University of Texas system with the offering of 100% online options. This was important to me in order to maintain my family and current career while I pursued my Master's.  It was also one of very few universities that offered a specialization in Instructional Coaching. I believe this area of education is quickly evolving and will prove vital to continued success and support of teachers. 

What are your career goals and how does your graduate program support them?

My current career goal is to offer the highest level of support for new teachers entering the profession based on proven strategies and resources.  The teaching profession is one of the most difficult jobs in our society today. Our school system is hungry for the energy and creative thinking that new teachers inject into their settings. When I support a new educator's quality instruction and strong classroom management skills, I have the privilege of participating in the continued growth of the teacher and their students. I am extremely honored to work in the field of education during this pivotal time in our society. 

My graduate program has abundantly supplied skills needed to help with my career aims. I can unequivocally say that EVERY course has prepared me to reflect on my practices as an educator. This program has provided me with resources that I have already utilized in my career. It has been extremely rewarding to implement my learning into actual practice so quickly.

What do you like most about UT Tyler?

UT Tyler has upheld the high standards I expected of a school in The University of Texas system. Even though my program is 100% online, my professors have designed their instruction to be very personal and approachable. I was originally terrified to go back to school due to the amount of time I thought it would require. UT Tyler's program has proven rigorous but rewarding. I have found it much more manageable than I anticipated to balance pursuing higher level education with family and career. I also like the variety of required coursework. My courses have all pushed me as a professional to reflect on the evolving nature of the field of education which in turn has caused me to implement more thoughtful change in my practices. 

Find out more about our Master of Curriculum and Instruction