6103

When I decided Kent State University (KSU) would be the place I to pursue graduate school I was both excited and apprehensive. The reason I chose higher education was based on many incredible experiences I had academically, socially, and emotionally through my undergraduate years; therefore, I wanted to help someone else gain the same benefits and experiences, but in doing so I was worried I would lose the meaning of “the college experience.” KSU did not take any meaning away, instead they helped build more on the experiences students should have on a campus. I was taught how I, as an administrator in the field, can properly and ethically excel in making sure that the experiences of the students, faculty, and staff are successful. One area of my time at KSU that I am particularly appreciative of was the constant use of practical applications in higher education to help apply the theoretical and academic knowledge we learned through the various texts and class discussion. I was repeatedly encouraged and challenged to critically think and analyze various circumstances in the higher education arena in order to better understand the teachings. Furthermore, faculty members in the program are either experienced or practicing administrators which allowed for open conversations about their experiences and how we might gain from them. Throughout the program I appreciated the thoroughness of each class and the challenge of self-reflection. The curriculum does not only force students to learn about theory or practical application related to others, but to ourselves as well. Each course I took included requirements of self-analysis so that we could have a greater grasp of how we can improve upon ourselves in order to be a successful administrator. The self-criticism and examination was challenging, but I now am more aware of the ways in which I am a leader, how I interact with other administrators or students, and how I would handle various situations that may occur on campus. Through a greater self-awareness I have the ability to look at myself from another’s perspective and have gained a greater understanding for the necessity to adjust my communication depending on who I may be interacting with. The curriculum in the higher education program also allowed me to center my education on areas that I have a strong interest in, while also requiring me to take courses that would be of benefit in any administrative position. This has been tremendously helpful in allowing me to explore and test different arenas of a campus or university. In the required courses I gained a comprehensive insight on leadership, diversity, student development, law, and business which will be applicable to any position in higher education. Yet I was able to take electives such as athletic administration, state and federal educational policy, and disability services to assist in enhancing my familiarity with the inner workings of various departments on campus. Overall, I am very satisfied with my education in the Higher Education Administration and Student Personnel program at KSU. I was challenged to apply theoretical teachings to practical and realistic situations, encouraged to reflect and improve upon myself, and allowed to cater my education to courses that would improve my chosen career path. The education, while challenging at times, was rewarding and I am sure will continue to be in the future. I feel properly prepared and able to thrive in any area of my profession that I decide to pursue and I am confident I will succeed as an administrator.