Master's Program Reflection

I began my college education as an art and design major, after a lifelong interest in the topics. My interests and background led to an entry-level position in the printing industry, then to a graphic design and production position, in which I learned the principles of marketing and project management.

My next opportunity, with an international graphic design software company, allowed me to build upon my knowledge and skills in computer technology and project management, and to gain experience in Web technologies, technical writing, and editing. I acquired practical experience in the methods used to manage virtual and worldwide workgroups when I was promoted to a supervisor of teams working simultaneously in the U.S. and India.

When I decided to return to college to complete my Bachelor's degree, I chose to seek a degree in Technical Communication at Metropolitan State College of Denver, with a minor in art. I improved my skills in technical writing and editing, and in creating Web pages and multimedia programs. A position redesigning a college Web site and the opportunity to take a number of online courses reinforced my interest in Internet technologies.

Before completing my B.A., I had decided to continue my education and seek a Master's degree. While researching programs of study, I discovered the Information and Learning Technologies programs, at University of Colorado at Denver's School of Education. I began my ILT Master's program in the Summer of 2003. In the first course meetings for the two classes I took that semester, my fellow students cheered and clapped as I told them I had just graduated the previous weekend with my B.A. I was inspired.

An employment opportunity arrived in the form of a previous advisor and professor at Metro State, who had written a letter of recommendation for me to apply to the ILT program. I was offered a position with a new educational grant, An Adventure of the American Mind – Colorado (recently renamed Teaching With Primary Sources). I enjoyed working for the grant, and the opportunity arose due to my decision to choose the ILT program as my plan of study for my Master's degree.

My current position as a Program Design Manager at Westwood College Online provides an exciting opportunity to use the knowledge and skills I've learned in the ILT program to design online courses in programs that relate to my background in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, and Web Design.

I consider myself fortunate to have experience in the both the business world and in academic settings, and to learn how corporate and non-profit organizations are managed. I believe that my background in art and design, computer technology, education, instructional design, and management can be adapted to any modern industry or organization.

I am interested in global commerce and international education, and would like to learn additional languages. I began studying Spanish in high school, and resumed my studies as I worked on my ILT degree. I believe our future holds great opportunities for online collaboration as Web technology evolves.

I think of myself as a lifelong learner, and will continue to improve my skills and knowledge as my career evolves. I plan to continue my education, and am exploring online certificates and higher education programs for the future.

In the ILT program, I have made many new friends, both students and faculty, who have encouraged and inspired me. I will always remember the rapport we shared as a group of learners and educators. I would like to thank my professors and fellow students for their support and friendship, and I hope to keep in touch with them professionally and personally as our lives continue to be enriched.