When I made the decision to return to school to pursue my graduate degree, I did a lot of research into online programs offered at universities across the country.  I found myself also coming back to the Applied Digital Learning (ADL) program at Lamar University.  My husband is a recent graduate of Lamar.  His experience with his online Business Management program was a positive one.  Many of my colleagues have received their master’s from Lamar.  It seemed like an institution that would have a great deal to offer any learner seeking a graduate degree.  

The ADL program is unique and appeals to my love of learning and technology.  I was drawn to the fact that the knowledge was immediately applicable to my job.  My classroom could be my laboratory.  The more I explored the program, the more eager I was to get started.  I found Dr. Harapunik’s ePortfolio and my excitement grew.  As I read through posts and course tips and resources, I found what I was looking for.      

The most appealing part of the ADL program is it looks very different for each learner.  I did not have any idea about the opportunities to collaborate and learn from my peers that are outside of the world of public education.  My network will expand with every course I take.  I find myself exploring ideas and possibilities that could take me outside of the classroom.  I see my goals and ambitions changing as I navigate each course.  I see this as the key to my success in the ADL program.     

The passion I have for learning and teaching can lead me to a path that is different from the one I have traversed these last 12 years.  One of the reasons that motivated me to get my master’s was the stress I have experienced over the last few years.  I was hoping to find my “why.”  The “why” that lead me to become a teacher.  My realization is that I do want to teach and guide others to find their full capacity as a learner.  What is now clear is that I can accomplish that in other settings and not just as a public school teacher. My future as an educator and a learner is more exciting than I had originally imagined.