Her professional accomplishments
“My proudest professional accomplishment would be receiving my master’s degree. This is a big accomplishment for me because I will be the second person in my family to receive a graduate degree. It is something that is amazing, because not everyone can say that they have a master’s degree. A lot of hard work went into earning this degree, so once I finally walk across the stage in May, I will be accomplishing one of my biggest goals so far. ”
Why did Jahnari choose her program?
“I chose this program because the courses relate to my field of study, which is education. My bachelor’s degree is in early childhood education, so I thought this program would be the perfect fit and it is. I love working with children, so I thought this program would allow me to expand my knowledge in the field of education.”
Why choose MSU for graduate education?
“I always wanted to get my master’s degree. I decided to go through Missouri State because it was an easier and familiar option. For my bachelor’s degree, I had the same professors for different courses more than once. Some of those same teachers teach the courses I am in now for my graduate degree. Being familiar with the school and some of the professors just felt more comfortable for me, personally, since I already had relationships with them. Lastly, I chose to pursue my degree at Missouri State because I could do the accelerated option. The accelerated option was better for me because I could do dual credit courses (complete my bachelor’s while working on my master’s at the same time).”
Favorite class/professor
“My favorite professor in the program would have to be Dr. Elizabeth King. I have known her since I was a freshman at Missouri State and our relationship has grown so much over time. I have been able to collaborate with her as a professor and as my advisor. She has not only been amazing as a professor and advisor, but also just as a person. She does an excellent job of communicating as well as understanding that people have things going on outside of school. Dr. King has always helped me work through whatever issues I may be having and figure out what the best solution is. Overall, she is great, and anyone who may have her as a professor or advisor is in great hands!”
Overcoming challenges
“The most challenging aspect of my graduate program was how tedious it is to do research. I like to think that I am good at research, but this time around it was particularly challenging, especially because I had to research specific terms that related to the topic of my research. Another tricky part of it was finding scholarly articles that were recently published. Most research studies were completed years ago, which may not be helpful to something that is currently happening. I overcame it by taking my time and learning how to use MSU Libraries database correctly, to find what I needed.”
Memorable experiences at Missouri State
“My most memorable experience as a graduate student would have to be finding out that the IRB approved my study. When I first started my graduate program and was looking over everything, the IRB approval was the main thing I was worried about. I would always hear stories about people’s studies not being approved so they would have to go in and change it. I really felt that my topic for my study was great, so I was hoping that it would be approved. Once I found out that it was approved, that made me feel a sense of relief because I knew that the hardest part was over.”
MSU community supports students
“There are always resources available to use whenever you need them.”
Her graduate education is preparing her for her future
“Taking these graduate courses has allowed me to learn more about children. I currently work at a school, and I feel like I have been able to use the information I have learned throughout this program to strengthen my skills as a teacher. Kids grow and develop each day, so it is great to be able to know how and why they are doing certain things.”
Advice for upcoming #GradBears
“The advice that I would give to someone who is considering pursuing a graduate degree at Missouri State University is to choose the accelerated option. I say that because it is quicker and cheaper. You can receive credit for both your bachelor’s degree and master’s degree at the same time. For students who are currently attending MSU, that would be the best option. Another piece of advice is to take the time to decide which program is the best fit for you. Talk with your advisor and see what graduate program aligns well with your undergraduate degree.”
Follow her on social media
LinkedIn: Jahnari Harris