Graduate Student Alumni Spotlight

Curriculum and Instruction

Student Name:  Janie Rush Fryar

Program: Curriculum & Instruction

Graduated: 2018

Employer: Levelland ISD

Position: Librarian & English Dept Head

What attracted you to this field?

In wanting to further my education, I still wanted to stay true to what I am at heart, a teacher. The field of Curriculum & Instruction was a perfect fit for me; it would allow me to begin to help young teachers find their footing as they moved into the world of education and allow me to work with veteran teachers to perfect their craft. Education has become a minefield of sorts and many teachers are ignorant as to the challenges they will face. I look forward to finding ways to help smooth the road for all teachers and to build a bridge between administrators and teachers.

Why did you choose UT Tyler?

My first motivation was that I had several friends who had completed degrees with UT Tyler and they spoke highly of the program. Secondly, the cost for me as an educator and coach's wife with two small boys was wildly attractive. And finally, I needed something that was strictly online since I have to balance the schedule of a coach, a son in junior high, a son in elementary and my own schedule as a teacher. UT Tyler fit all those requirements and was simply an obvious choice for me.

What do you like most about UT Tyler?

While an affordable online program was what drew me in, what became the best feature about the program was the level of commitment and excellence that my professors expected both from myself and in their classwork. Never at any point did I feel as though I was simply doing an assignment for a grade or to check a box on a 'to-do' list. Everything was meaningful and educational and I knew through-out the program that I was getting the best education possible.

What are your career aspirations?

Some day, I hope to work as a Curriculum and Instruction Specialist for a district.

What is your work experience?

I have 17 years in a secondary classroom, ranging from 8th thru 12th grade & 2 years as my campus librarian.

Do you have any advice to pass along to other students interested in this program?

Understand that while it is an online program, which can historically leave you lacking with personal connection to your professors, UT Tyler professors care about you and want to get to know you through-out your time in the program. I was previously enrolled in another Master's program and my experience there was so frustrating, that I quit after completing 18 hours. Being in the UT Tyler program made me better in a multitude of ways, pushing me to work as hard as I could for both myself, my family, and also my professors. Don't think about it, just jump in and enjoy the most rewarding experience possible!

Find out more about our Master of Curriculum and Instruction program