Meet Ethan Gambriel: Empowering Students Through Speech and Debate

This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Ethan Gambriel, an alum of the Master of Arts in Communication program at Missouri State University. Ethan is currently working as a teacher and Speech & Debate coach, where he helps students develop confidence, critical thinking, and strong communication skills. During his time at Missouri State, Ethan built the foundation that now shapes his approach to teaching and mentorship. His journey reflects the lasting impact graduate education can have both inside and outside the classroom.

Ethan-Gambriel is holding the master's degree

Finding the Right Program and Community

Ethan shared that choosing the Master of Arts in Communication program at MO State felt like a natural decision for him. He explained that the program’s engaging topics and the strength of its faculty stood out from the beginning, giving him confidence that it would be an environment where he could grow both academically and personally. Reflecting on that choice, Ethan said he felt confident the program would make a meaningful difference in his life, noting that “from the all-star faculty and interesting topics,” he knew it was a program that would change his life for the better.

He also emphasized that the people at Missouri State played a major role in motivating him to pursue his graduate study. Ethan described the campus community as closely connected and supportive, which made it easier to build relationships while continuing to work toward his academic goals. As he shared, “this campus and community are deeply intertwined,” and the opportunity to connect with others was a strong part of what drew him to Missouri State.

More Than a Classroom Experience

When asked about his favorite class or professor in the program, Ethan shared that it is difficult to choose just one. He reflected on the strong impact several faculty members had on his development during the MA in Communication program. Ethan explained that Dr. Ott helped him become more deliberate and thoughtful with the words he uses while communicating, while Dr. Lazic influenced how he understands his roles as a person, teacher, and student. He also described Dr. Wehrman as a constant source of support and guidance throughout his time in the program. Looking back, Ethan emphasized that the program is filled with “amazing faculty and incredible classes,” noting that the mentorship and learning environment played an important role in shaping both his academic experience and his approach to teaching.

Building Discipline Through Graduate Challenges

When reflecting on the challenges of graduate school, Ethan shared that one of the most difficult aspects was managing time. Between readings, assignments, and projects, staying on track required strong organization and discipline. Over time, he learned to prioritize tasks and stay focused on long-term goals. As he explained, “the most challenging part of being a graduate student was finding the time to complete the readings, assignments, and projects.” Despite the busy schedule, he found the process rewarding and said that pushing himself made the final accomplishments feel even more meaningful.

A Memorable Moment in Graduate School

Among the many experiences during the program, presenting his final research project remains one of Ethan’s most memorable moments. The presentation brought together classmates who had spent months developing their own ideas and research, creating an environment full of curiosity and intellectual exchange. Ethan recalled how exciting it was to present alongside peers, describing the experience as both rewarding and inspiring as everyone shared the work they had accomplished. “It was so fun to be surrounded by my top-notch classmates, and even more fun to hear their incredible research,” he reflected.

The Value of a Strong Cohort

Beyond the classroom, the relationships built during graduate school became an important source of support. Ethan described his cohort as a group that consistently showed up for one another, offering encouragement and understanding throughout the program. In his words, “my cohort was a lifeline,” a reminder that graduate education is often strengthened by the community formed along the way.

Coaching the Next Generation of Communicators

The skills Ethan developed during his graduate program at MO State now shape the way he mentors the next generation of communicators. In his role as a teacher and speech and debate coach, he encourages students to think critically, challenge ideas, and speak with purpose. Over time, those lessons have translated into remarkable achievements. Under his guidance, multiple students have competed at the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA), while others have earned the title of Missouri State Champions.

Education Beyond the Classroom

Looking back, Ethan sees graduate school as more than a step toward a career. The experience shaped how he thinks about learning, communication, and the role education plays in society. As he put it,

“GRAD SCHOOL IS NOT JUST FOR ACADEMICS; IT IS TO DEVELOP YOURSELF AS A CRITICAL THINKER WHO PUSHES THE ENVELOPE TO ASSURE OUR HUMANITY WILL PERSIST.”

Advice for Future #GradBears

When asked what advice he would give to prospective graduate students, Ethan offers a simple answer: “DO IT!!! The professors and programs will work with you.”

He mentions that the flexibility and support he received during the program allowed him to balance his career while continuing his education. “My advisor always worked with me to ensure my education was what I needed, not just a package deal passed out to everyone.”