Graduate Student Spotlight

Curriculum and Instruction MED

Student Name:  Jennifer Lane

Program: Curriculum and Instruction

Hometown:  Berwick, Pennsylvania

Undergraduate Institution: East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania

Graduation Year: Undergrad-2010; Graduate-expected December 2019

Why did you choose to attend UT Tyler?

I chose to attend UT Tyler because I wanted to advance my knowledge and my career in a way that worked with my busy life. I am a mom to two young children, a wife, a full time teacher/instructional coach, and active in my church and community. Traditional graduate programs would not have worked for me or fit anywhere into my schedule. UT Tyler's online program has allowed me to schedule my course load according to what fits my life best and I am able to adjust time spent working on class assignments so that it does not interfere with my ability to stay devoted to my job and my family.

I am local to Tyler, so I also loved the fact that I could complete an online program, but still visit the campus or meet with my professors if needed. In addition, we chose UT Tyler specifically over other online university programs because it is affordable, has the degree program I was seeking, has some of the best professors I've encountered, and has a friendly and helpful staff member at every junction.

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

My career goal is to be immersed in the world of education through curriculum and instruction. I ultimately hope to coach other educators, change the world of professional development for the better, and affect positive change as it relates to the educational experience of students across all grade levels. My graduate program is Curriculum and Instruction, but I was able to choose a focus of Instructional Coaching.

Not only am I able to explore the theory behind education, professional development, and learning, but I am also able to gather background information and deep understanding of what it means to be an instructional coach. This program is equipping me with the theoretical foundation for my craft, as well as providing me with opportunities to practice educational coaching and professional development with support and guidance. 

What do you like most about UT Tyler?

I have been most impressed with the active and involved faculty. Each of my professors has gone the extra mile to connect with me and provide a truly engaging and authentic learning experience that brings students together despite physical distance. Each class has uniquely created an online environment that feels like an in person classroom experience in which I have been able to connect and form friendships with other students as we move through the program together and collaborate in our graduate program work. I am truly thankful for the extra effort that the faculty at UT Tyler puts forth in their online program. 

Find out more about our Master of Curriculum and Instruction