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When thinking about the Higher Education Administration program here at Kent State University I immediately think about the information that you obtain through many opportunities that are available for you to experience. As is the case with most higher education programs that I have looked at, there is always a component of theory and practical application.  I find that this program allows those in it to apply themselves and hone the program to get out of it what they want. The program allows for student directed learning where you can choose your classes and experience what you will. Through various practicum experiences and graduate assistantships the students are able to experience the depth of student affairs at a much greater level then is possible in some other programs.  I have always had a feeling where within student affairs that I wanted my career to head. Through this program I have been able to explore and gain a bit more knowledge about some of the other areas that I do not have much knowledge but that will allow for me to be able to assist students on a better level than I could have without that knowledge.  This program definitely opened my mind to look at student affairs at a level that previously I wouldn’t have. Previous to my experience in this program, when the word student affairs was brought up I had always thought of residence life, student life, or other such student centered offices. However, as I have continued in my experience I have expanded that definition to include: advising, counseling, financial aid, bursar, and registrar. I know have a much better understanding of the needs of the students and that all offices that dealt with those students were apart of student affairs.  One particular theme that I have noticed through out my experience in the higher education program, has been the influence of the environment and culture on the institution. There are a great many courses within the program that touch upon the idea of the organization of the institution as well as its effect on the student. From courses focusing on private liberal arts to the community college, all of these have a lot to do with the make up of the student body as well as how the college runs on a daily basis.  Along with classes such as this, it was important that the individual learned about the more general things dealing with a college. Courses such as environments and history allow the students to look into why the college has developed the way they have and also what that development says about the school and its students. The important facts about the history of the institution can show for the future administrator to have a better understanding of how higher education has developed over the decades and this understanding will allow administrators to truly grasp what is important at their institution.  Another important theme within the program, I find, is finding where you will fit best within the field. Understanding that it is best not to jump to the first offer you are given as their might be something there that can lead to a bad fit and therefore a bad experience later in your career. In fact, Dr. Stephen Thomas during the orientation session for all first years clearly explained that once we graduate we will more than likely hate our first jobs, could also result in getting fired. This knowledge to be truthful kind of relieves the stress of finding that perfect job right away.  In fact, at this point within my master’s program I have actually had the chance to already have my first job and leave that first job, due to problems with fit. This knowledge actually made it much easier for me to acknowledge that the job was a bad fit for me and find just one more office to my knowledge base of things that I might not be able to work in but that I have a healthy understanding and respect for those who can.