MiKenzi Lowe, '22
Why did you decide to do an education degree?
I decided to pursue an education degree because I have had a passion for teaching for several years. I was planning on becoming a pastry chef for my career, but once I started the Ready Set Teach program at my high school and stepped in the classroom, I knew instantly that teaching was the career for me.
Why did you choose Navarro College Education/Teaching over other programs?
I chose the Navarro College Education program because it was close to where I lived, and it was also affordable.
What advice would you give to others looking at Navarro College programs?
Some advice I would give to others looking at Navarro College Education programs is that the professors are outstanding. Most of the professors I’ve had have worked with me to make sure I am set up for success. The professors want to see you succeed, so they will give you the tools you need to be successful.
Describe your experience in the program.
My experience in the program has been very good. I am glad I chose Navarro to pursue my associate’s degree.
What was your favorite class and why?
My favorite class in the education program was Professor Das’ class. This was my Introduction to Teaching class, and it felt like a family because everyone in that class was striving towards the same goal. It also helps that Professor Das was an amazing professor to guide us through our teaching.
Who was your favorite professor and why?
My favorite professor was Professor Das. Professor Das has always made sure that her students are set up for success, and always kept us updated with news in the education field so that we were prepared for anything that came our way. She has also motivated me throughout the program and has always been a positive, encouraging professor. She is also one of my role models because she is an efficient, hard worker and works towards her goals.
How did you juggle school, work, family, etc.? Any advice?
I worked full time when pursuing my Associate of Arts in Teaching degree. My advice to those working full time is to have time management. When I worked full time, I would come home and work on homework a little bit each day. It’s important to strive to complete your homework at least a day before it’s due so you won’t be stressed all the time!
What advice would you give to a prospect/new student on how to make the most of the
Navarro College Education/Teaching program experience?
Some advice I would give to a new student in the Navarro College Education/Teaching program is to not be afraid to be social and make friends. The peers in your class are pursuing the same degree as you. As Professor Das said, you have people all around you who might be future connections for you in your career. One of my regrets is not opening up to people as much as I should have.
What are your career goals/plans?
My career plans are to graduate from Texas Tech University in May 2024 and start my teaching career the following school semester. There is a teaching shortage at the moment, so I know my value. I will do my research on the best schools around me that provide me benefits I need.
Does your Navarro College Education/Teaching program experience set you apart in the
workplace (a particular skill, knowledge, background or experience)? If so, how does
it do this?
I believe that by pursuing the Navarro College Education/Teaching program I am somewhat set apart from others because I had amazing professors to guide me and give me helpful tips for my future after Navarro College.
How is your degree going to help you with the next steps in your career?
My degree helps me with the next steps in my career because I am now prepared to earn my bachelor’s degree. Not only am I prepared to earn my bachelor’s degree, I also now have my own tips and tricks that I have picked up along the way from my professors to help me be successful.
What was it like maintaining your career while pursuing your Education/Teaching degree?
It was somewhat difficult maintaining my career while pursuing my Education/Teaching degree because I had to learn effective time management skills. I learned how to balance my schedule and still hang out with friends in a matter of a few weeks.
How has the Navarro College Education/Teaching program helped you in your career? Can you give a specific example of how it helped you get a job/promotion or succeed on a particular project?
The Navarro College Education/Teaching program has helped me in my career by already setting up connections for when I start looking to start my teaching career. I gained connections from the school that I did my observation hours at.
Page Updated: July 2023
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