June Classes
Jul 19, 2010

Posted by | 7 Comments

Master’s Degree!

Last week I accomplished one of my lifetime goals, to graduate with my Master’s Degree.  I got my Master of Arts in Education from Viterbo University on Friday, July 16th, 2010.  Looking back, obtaining my MA was something I never actually thought I would do.  Then, about 13 months ago (yes you heard me right) I decided to go for it, and now here I am, DONE!

 

I chose to get my degree in general education because I wanted a broad approach to education that may open up many doors for me.  For me, this degree is not simply a jump on the pay scale.  I love to learn, and grow professionally. I am always striving to be better at what I do.  This program has made me a better teacher!  I was able to take many art related classes and leadership courses to balance out my coursework. My graduate and undergraduate work were both liberal arts.  This type of education is reflective and innovative, and a great way to learn how to become a lifelong learner.  When I can tie my vocation into my personal faith and life’s mission, I become a stronger teacher in the classroom and a much better person to impact those around me.

Thank you to all of my friends and family who have supported me throughout this process and especially my wonderful husband who understands me, my goals and aspirations, and who always brings out the best in my talents and abilities.

So, with a degree in my hand and the wind in my sails What do you say - doctorate by 30?

Like it? Share it!

    You Might Also Like:


    • Sarah

      HORRAY!!!!!! I’m so excited for you friend!! Congrats!

      • http://theartofeducation.wordpress.com jessicabalsley

        Thanks! Whew! What a week, but so rewarding!

    • Anna

      Awesome! I actually graduated from Luther College in Decorah, IA in 2003 and then went back to school at Viterbo to get my teaching license in art ed! It’s a small world.

    • Anna

      Oh and from their teacher prog (1 yr prog- student teaching included)at Viterbo I got 23 credits towards a masters:) What a great deal. Hope you liked it there.

      • http://theartofeducation.wordpress.com Jessica Balsley

        Anna! How cool we had the same educational experiences! I loved both Viterbo and Luther. I am going to be teaching a few electives for Viterbo this summer, so I am also looking forward to that.

        Where do you teach now? Thanks for stopping by!

        • Anna

          Hi Jessica!

          I am currently living in Prairie du Chien and teaching elementary art in the De Soto Area School District- 2 different elementary schools. I love it! I just read you most recent post regarding teaching/ and being an artist… I saw you went to Luther too! Crazy- I graduated in ’03. Loved it there. Anyway, as a first year teacher, I’m not finding much time for my own art, but focusing on my teaching. That is enough to keep me busy for sure. How do you find the time and keep a blog? Amazing! Anyway, take care and we’ll chat with you later!

          • http://theartofeducation.wordpress.com Jessica Balsley

            Congrats on getting your first position! My first year I had no time to do anything but teach. Gradually each year the teaching part gets a little better and I add things, leadership roles, and outside projects.

            Where do I find the time? Well since I value it, I make time for it. The art production goes on and off. I will do it for a few months and then I will take a break depending on everything else. I enjoy working on the blog, so I do that in my free time. Also, I make sure when I do have free time, I am doing what I really enjoy and not getting sucked into things like Facebook all night long.

            So glad we have connected! Keep in touch.

    • Pingback: What does the Research Say? « The Art of Education