Education Experience
As educators and administrators, our goal is to ensure student success, equal access to education, and opportunities for learning in all aspects of higher education. Originally, I wanted to become a professor, but I realized that learning can occur beyond the classroom. Therefore, I aim to support student learning in all university areas. I am pursuing a doctorate in Higher Education and want to connect with those interested in improving the university's structure for the benefit of students, faculty, and staff.
Living-Learning Community Programs
I work at Ball State University as part of the Living-Learning Community Programs within the Housing and Residence Life department. Living-learning Communities (LLCs) are an integral aspect of my work as an educator, professional, and administrator at Ball State. While learning takes place in the classroom, it is equally important to recognize that it also happens outside of the classroom.
Classroom Education Experience
Learning occurs both inside and outside of the classroom, and there are occasions when both of them must work in tandem to accomplish the best learning possible for the students in the care of a university. Within the classroom space, I have acquired experience in career readiness for English majors and regular engagement with a class design for student leaders within Housing and Residence Life. Transferable skills ought to be the hallmark of an effective classroom with the key skills and strategic knowledge presented n such a way as to be useful to students both in and out of the classroom.
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In my experience working with co-curricular student opportunities, I have come to appreciate the significant impact of getting students off campus and into their community, which yields substantial returns on investment both inside and outside the classroom.
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A rich educational experience emerges from the integration of classroom and non-classroom settings, fostering a holistic sense of belonging through deliberate connections.
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There are immersive and experiential opportunities available through study abroad and classroom-based programs, which provide incredible learning experiences. My work focuses on offering various voluntary opportunities for students to engage with the community and collaborative projects with peers from a different perspective. It's important to provide a low-stakes learning environment that fosters curiosity at no cost to students, removing barriers related to out-of-pocket expenses or time commitments associated with certain experiences.
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My work is focused on the idea that when students feel a sense of belonging, they are more likely to seek the support they need to succeed in college. While most of my experience has been in student affairs and residential settings, I recognize that students are primarily concerned with choosing a major and career path when they start college. By fostering connections between students and faculty outside of the classroom and creating mentorship programs, we can provide students with more opportunities to pursue success.
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Working in student success reveals that many institutional realities hinder the development of meaningful collaborations and partnerships across departments and divisions. My professional and educational work is focused on addressing these challenges related to department boundaries and partnership development. This work is crucial for bringing about meaningful change and meeting the increasing needs of higher education, particularly in terms of student, faculty, and staff experiences.
Co-Curricular Education
Residential co-curricular education programs are typically organized by universities or colleges and are often offered in residence halls, theme houses, or living-learning communities. These programs provide students with a unique opportunity to live, learn, and grow in a supportive environment that fosters personal and intellectual development.
The co-curricular activities offered through residential co-curricular education programs vary depending on the specific program and the interests of the students. Some programs may focus on leadership development, while others may offer opportunities for community service, cultural immersion, or professional development.
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Local Place Based Learning with the Education LLC
The Education LLC, in partnership with Ball State Teachers College
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Project Based Learning with Equinox Music Festival
The CCIM LLC’s annual event is to plan and host a live concert in their Residence Hall.
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Learning on Location at the Indiana State House and Museum
The Education and Social Science’s LLCs at the Indiana Statehouse, learning about how their Success is IN Indiana.
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Faculty Connection with Dogs and Donuts
This annual event, in partnership with the CCIM LLC and the College of Communication, Information, and Media, brings together Faculty, Dogs, and Donuts in the Residence Hall of the LLC.
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Career Mentorship with Kurt Humphrey and the Business LLC
Kurt Humprey, former CFO of the Indianapolis Colts and Ball State Alumni, returned to campus to meet with and talk to Business LLC Students in the Residence Hall of the LLC.
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Faculty Connection on Day 1: The Health Professions Kick-Off
Every Community has a kickoff event, and these are best when we can welcome faculty and students into the space as early as possible. This is one of many with Ball State College of Health.