GOAL IN PROGRAM 

My goal in the program is to become more confident with technology from an educational standpoint and to be able to articulate my knowledge of the technology I use to an audience who cares to listen. I want to come away with the ability to speak about technology to large groups of people without feeling timid or overwhelmed. I want to feel more comfortable showing people how to embrace technology and how it can be a positive resource for learning. I also want to give back what I have learned over the years as an educator, industry professional and as a student. I want to contribute to a bigger discussion about technology and how it can be used to enhance learning. 

GOAL NEXT COUPLE YEARS 

While attending graduate school, I plan to continue teaching at the high school where I am currently, move up on the pay-scale, coach Cross Country and Track. If I see an opportunity to work closer to home or see an opening in another district that pays more, then I will pursue that venture as long as I can continue teaching Graphic Design, Web Design and New Media Design. There are often openings at the College of Sequoias, a local junior college, to teach Graphic Design and Web Design as an adjunct teacher, I may consider that if the timing is right. For now, my number one priority is to see this program through. It has been a goal of mine for several years. 

When I am done with graduate school, I want to venture away from teaching high school, and look for employment opportunities at Adobe. I have industry experience from my work prior to teaching, and working for Adobe has been on my mind a lot these last few years. I want to look at several other fortune 500 tech companies to work as an educator, consultant, or creative director. If a position like that is not available, I can pursue brand management, creative direction, or design because I have experience working for large brands. Going back to school to get a master's helps reinforce my strengths, making me a more competitive candidate for some of the positions I plan to pursue. 

FUTURE 

Although going back to industry is my main goal in the next few years, I am still going to continue to explore opportunities teaching Graphic Design, New Media, or Web Design, but at the university level. I am passionate about Design and Technology, so I think it would be great to continue helping students explore opportunities in the field. And if I could work remotely, I would still like to coach cross–country and track – it is one of the best parts of my day.