JENNIFER BLAKLEY
Hometown: Kent, OH
Program: EdD, Educational Administration
Degrees: MEd, English Education - Ohio State; BA, English Literature - Ohio State; principal and superintendent licensures - Ohio State
"It is invigorating to collaborate with educators from all over the world, as well as from various types of educational settings here in the states."
Why are you passionate about educational administration?
It's a great middle ground - you have a direct opportunity to impact kids' lives, while also having a chance to affect broader educational practices.
How will your education from Ohio State help you reach your goals?
I am always striving to be a better educator, as well as a wiser human being, and the College of Education programs have consistently propelled me in both domains.
What will you do with what you have learned your program?
I will better affect the lives of the students in my school, as well as more effectively support the educators I oversee.
As a working professional, how do you balance work, life and education?
It takes a lot of thoughtful planning, and it helps that I have the support of my husband and my teachers in encouraging me to reach my goals. Also, I have learned to release the desire to be perfect! My goal has shifted to being the best that I can in the multiple facets of my life.
How has the diversity in educational administration impacted your experience?
It is invigorating to collaborate with educators from all over the world, as well as from various types of educational settings here in the states. It is easy to get caught in the "bubble" of one's own professional environment, and in doing so, lose sight of the amazing opportunities that others are creating. The EdD community has helped me learn about practices that I can emulate within my own setting, and for that, my students' educational experiences improve.
How have your professors impressed you?
Every professor I have worked with is passionate about their research foci, but also about supporting their students in their personal and professional goals.
What else has been an important aspect about this program?
The rigor, the inspiration, the sense of community that has been created among the participants and instructors.
What advice would you give to a prospective student considering a degree in educational administration from EHE?
Pick Ohio State. I don't think a better option exists.