University of Maryland College of Education students, alumni, faculty and staff share their stories.
Coming from a completely different professional background, I faced a lot of uncertainty and self-doubt at first. But from the beginning, I was guided by my academic advisor, who helped me plan my courses and understand the university system and gave me the confidence I needed. Thanks to that support, and to everything I’ve learned in the program, I’ve developed critical thinking skills and discovered new abilities.
—Carmen Alicia Kosiorek ’27, secondary education, world languages concentration (Spanish)
I decided to complete my master’s during one of the most challenging seasons of my career. I was navigating an inequitable school system and in search of my voice as a disruptive social justice educator. The college provided me with community, purpose and perspective. I was reminded that education is a practice of freedom. The College of Education allowed me to discover my “why”—why I lead, why I mentor and why I remain committed to transforming programs to ensure success for those furthest from opportunity.
—Selvon Waldron M.A. ’20
In 2010, while working on my dissertation, I learned that my son, who we were in the process of adopting from Haiti, survived the earthquake in Port-au-Prince. The entire COE community rallied around me. My fellow graduate assistants covered my work responsibilities, my professors immediately reached out, and my advisors, Drs. Deb Neubert and Sherril Moon, started a collection to pay for our flight so we could be reunited with our son.
—Monica Simonsen ’00, M.Ed. ’01, Ph.D. ’10, director of teacher education
Over the last several years, I have struggled to process the challenges our nation and world have experienced, including mass shootings, war, food insecurity, political turmoil and racism. My career in social studies education has kept me hopeful and grounded, knowing that the work has true and meaningful impact. I am preparing future social studies teachers, and in turn their future students, on how to become critical thinkers and civically minded and engaged members of society to promote change for the common good. I cannot think of anything else I would rather be doing with my life.
—Alison Jovanovic ’98, principal faculty specialist
Learning to be an educator taught me the skills of 1) listening first, speaking later; 2) determining the root cause of conflict by probing without judgment; 3) finding a consensus-built solution; 4) communicating clearly and concisely; and 5) being unafraid to speak to power.
—Rocky Lopes ’80
As I pursued my doctorate in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the College of Education gave me a meaningful focus and a source of stability. Even more importantly, I built lasting friendships with colleagues who shared the journey with me—connections that have become lifelong bonds.
—Elizabeth Stuart Whitehead ’98, Ed.D. ’24
The College of Education is a gift that continues to give. I have had over 20 years of success as a teacher thanks to the foundation I received. I am grateful for everything that I learned so many years ago.
—Jenny Durkin Raivel ’90
Have a story to share? Email us at coecomm@umd.edu
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