Previously I was a student-at-large in NIU's EdD program, but chose to pause as I relocated to another area. I've continued to reflect on the end and what I eventually want to do. While I love Higher Education, I'm not sure this is where I'll land in the end. I've been thinking about other opportunities to parlay my experience, knowledge, and expertise and ultimately transfer some of these skills to another functional area. A degree in Training and Development may be the way to go. I'm still considering my options and trying to find the right fit, so we'll see what happens.
Nevertheless, I'm excited about the possibilities because education absolutely thrills me. Perhaps I'll teach in a Masters of Higher Education program or work as the Director of Training and Development for an educational institution (or for-profit institution). Or maybe just pursue knowledge for the sake of knowledge, though some may argue that you can't pursue knowledge for the sake of it..there is always a context in which you're doing it. I think Rev. Dr. Michael Eric Dyson made this reference in one of my Chronicle of Higher Education newspapers.
I'm still regal in short hair and loving it. Cutting my hair has been one of the best decisions I've made thus far in my life. Isn't that pretty cool to say? I never thought about how our identity is tied so much to our hair. But I also knew that people's reactions & perceptions would be interesting. They think they understand, but actually have no real clue. I'm much more complex than my hair.
To sum it up...I don't fit into a nice and neat box as some may think. I'll surprise you by my wit, intellect, professionalism, free spirit, sarcasm, and surprisingly conservative ways. I'm a walking contradiction of sorts. Just when you think you've figured it out..you really have no idea. I'll wear pink socks and black pumps because I want to wear both and don't want to choose between them & at the same time speak about the importance of a liberal arts-based education and its value in preparing critical thinkers. I shop at thrift stores and garage sales, but am in love with Coach products and diamonds. Walmart became my friend in grad school, but I have mixed feelings regarding the big box ordinance.
Yep, brains and personality. An interesting combination.