Career history: After graduating from high school I worked as an operating engineer. I earned my bachelor’s degree and started working as an engineer. My position is now vice president for an engineering firm.
Why did you choose your school?
I was impressed by the philosophy and flexibility of the program.
What were the faculty, staff, and advisors like at your school?
Everyone was extremely helpful and professional.
Can you describe the classroom environment?
The students were friendly and provided a multitude of life experiences that added to the overall experience.
What was the coursework like in your classes?
At times challenging, but the instructors were always available to help.
What were your initial thoughts when you started graduate school?
Will I be able to handle the classes and my work schedule?
How did graduate school change you?
It made me “think” again. Also, I realized that I had to be open to other people’s ideas.
What was your biggest challenge during your graduate study?
The biggest challenge was learning how to listen again.
What was the best part about graduate school?
The best part was being exposed to new ideas and challenges. I made new friends that were both students and faculty.
How do you think your education in graduate school has helped you later in life?
It was an intrinsic motivation that led me to graduate school so I appreciated the exposure to divergent ideas that were presented in class.
Do you have any advice for future students thinking about attending graduate school?
It is important to have a goal and an action plan. Attending graduate school is a commitment that forces a person to be exposed to new ideas and challenges that can be outside of a comfort zone.
What is the best tip you can give students who are preparing to attend graduate school?
Take advantage of the instructors’ knowledge in their content area. Realize that they (especially the MSJ faculty/staff) are there to help you succeed. Next, the best tip I can give is to stay focused on the goal and enjoy the process because it goes by quickly.
