Students and Alumni - College of Education (2024)

Shamala Anderson

2023 Graduate of the M.Ed. Program

“Higher education is extremely important to me. I want to be challenged, engaged, and provided an authentic, intentional, yet rigorous program of study. This is why I chose to pursue my Master’s degree in Education Administration from the University of South Carolina. This is where I believe I would get the best educational experience. The program is structured and designed for educators to be successful. Each course and assignment is intentionally designed to maximize learning. The level of work has depth and pushes me to think more critically about important issues, such as educational programs and institutions, shifting mindsets, finance, laws and policies, and the roles of a building leader.

The courses are 100% online. This is a great option for me at this time. I am a wife, mom of three, and a teacher. The opportunity to meet virtually is one of the biggest attributes of the program. The professors are committed to their courses and creates a learning environment that is conducive for growth. Participation is strongly encouraged. Our discussions are meaningful, reflective, and thought-provoking. The professors strategically use relevant data to enhance the content, which makes the coursework more relatable. Because of the high-quality level of instruction, I am learning how to be a transformational leader who strives to build positive relationships and focus on making the best decisions for my school, students and their families, teachers, and the community. I will be prepared at the end of the program to step confidently into my next role.

I am thankful for the opportunity to be a student in the Education Administration program. I appreciate the level of complexity in each course because it allows me to grow and excel in my current role as a teacher. It also allows me to be even more reflective and think about how I can use my personal experiences and knowledge in the future as an administrator.”

NohoraWilliams

2023 Graduate of the M.Ed. Program

"I have the pleasure to belong to the online Master program of Educational Administration with the University of South Carolina. After having decided the passion topic that was going to further my career and offer me a brighter future, I had to make another big decision and that was where or how I would make it happen. Although it seemed like it would be a hard thing to do, it wasn’t at all. I already knew about the reputation of the University of South Carolina and its state, national and international renown. I personally knew great professional people around me who completed their masters and doctorate degrees with the university and held prestigious positions in the educational field, and for that I felt like I could follow their model.

In the process of getting started, registering and completing paperwork I had an enormous amount of support from several people that were constantly checking on me and making sure I would go through a smooth and painless beginning process.

Now that I’m in the program, I continue to receive immediate support from my professors and advisers whenever I need it. The program is very competent, well structured, it follows a logical order of classes and it offers a great variety of elective classes. I feel fortunate to belong to the program and I am confident it will open many great doorsin the near future!"

Brian Lim

2021 Graduate of the M.Ed. program

Current Position: Academic Dean of Meadow Glen Middle School

“The Masters in Educational Administration program at USC is special because it provided me an opportunityto network with aspiring administratorsand educators from around the state and beyond. With the program being online, I was able to pace myself according to my schedule and capacity, allowing me to complete the program in a timely manner. The professors were knowledgeable and challenged all students to become better leaders in all facets. From guest speakers to valuable interview and internship experiences, I felt prepared to enter a new journey in educational administration.”

Kelly Thacker

2021 Graduate of the M.Ed. Program

"After seeing several teachers in my district completed a variety of Master's programs throughout the country, I realized that the level of learning that occurred as a result of the USC Education Administration program is unparalleled. Teachers leave this program with the skills and knowledge to begin and excel in their new career path.

After spending only one semester in the program, I can already see the difference it has made in the lens through which I see teaching and leading! The readings, videos, and course discussions broaden my perspective while the written assignments allow me an opportunity to develop my vision as a leader. I look forward to continuing to grow and learn as a result of this program! "

Jesse George

2020 Graduate of the M.Ed. Program

"I chose the Educational Administration Master's Program at the University of South Carolina because I knew that I would be well prepared for a career as a school administrator. 

Public Education is ever-changing and can be challenging at times. The program I am currently in takes this into account. My professors draw on real world examples and issues to teach us how to better serve our schools in an administrative capacity. The content taught is immediately applicable and often has challenged me to be assertive and courageous as a teacher leader in my school. The program is also designed to be completed while teaching full time. This allows me to pull in program content and practices into my school building each day, while also letting my students have a classroom teacher that is focused on their academic growth.

Through this program I have learned a great deal about what it means to be an educational leader. Sometimes it looks like taking the reins, and other times it requires reflection instead of reaction. I am grateful for the wealth of knowledge shared by dedicated professors who truly have shown interest in helping me succeed and I look forward to a career in administration. "

Amy Sgorrano

2020 Graduate of the M.Ed. Program

Current Position: Assistant Principal of Chapin Elementary School

“I chose the Educational Administration Master’s Program at the University of South Carolina because it allowed me the opportunity to continue to teach, manage a family, and attend engaging classes. The University of South Carolina made the process of applying and signing up for the program quite seamless. An advisor was consistently available while registering for classes and responded quickly with answers while attending the program. As a lifelong learner, growth and understanding of the “why” behind decisions in schools has been a passion of mine. The Educational Administration Master’s Program excelled in teaching the foundations of how schools operate. This shift in thinking was encouraged through the Capstone Project, the many interviews, scenario discussions, and research that was completed throughout the courses. While completing each of the intentional projects in the program, I established a network of administrators and district office experts that were vital in applying the courses to real life situations. The University of South Carolina’s M.Ed. Program is special because of the relationships that have been established with my professors. Each professor in this program has been readily available to answer questions, help with concerns, and offer assistance when needed. They were extremely helpful in preparing me to secure an administrative position and continue to answer my emails two years after graduation. I consider the professors of this program to be mentors and friends.”

LeticiaGomez

2019 Graduate of the M.Ed. Program

"The Education Administration Master’s Program at the University of South Carolina was the best fit for my educational career. The fact that I could access online courses with top notch professors while continuing to work and refine my craft was a huge factor. What I did not expect and found to be a hidden treasure in my Master’s journey was the privilege of being able to collaborate with educators from all over South Carolina and beyond. I was able to gain knowledge from the experiences of fellow leaders from Colorado, Ohio, and Virginia to name a few. The convenient and respected Education Administration Program drew me in to the University of South Carolina, the experience, mentorship, and collaboration of the professors and fellow students made it an invaluable experience.

With my degree, I get to practice my passion. I am currently serving as an Assistant Principal and Technology Director at St. John Neumann Catholic School in Columbia, SC."

Le’ShaunMathis

2017 Graduate of the M.Ed. Program

Current Position: Assistant Principal at Airport High School

"USCholds personal value to me, because of the familial ties we share.  This university played a pivotal part in enhancing my uncle's, aunt's, childhood best friend's, and brother's academic career goals and dreams.

For this reason and witnessingUSC'simmediate impact on success fostered my choice; because I knew the learning experience transformed students into elite professionals. As I expected, this transformation prompted an Assistant Principal position in Lexington 2 School District before officially graduating. I wasUSC'ed, you should too!"