MST GRADUATES

Words from Faculty


felicia smiling
Dear MST Graduates,

On behalf of the MST faculty and staff, CONGRATULATIONS!! Can you believe how fast the academic year has flown by! Imagine the first day you came to campus to start your program and take classes and the excitement you felt. I imagine you are feeling the same way right now. Completing your program—whether it took you one year, two years, three years, or a bit longer than that, is a major achievement worth the excitement, celebration, and feelings you are experiencing right now. We look forward to celebrating with you over the next couple of weeks and at the official graduation ceremony. Know that you can come back to campus and experience a new first day again—the first day you come back to visit us as a TC alum! We are so very proud of you! We celebrate you!

View the graduation gallery and celebrate alongside your fellow MST peers who have done amazing work and made valuable contributions to our collective learning as a remarkable department. We know you will continue to do great things to improve the world around you-- you're MST Alum! Thank you for spending part of your lives with us in the Mathematics Education program area, the Science Education fourth floor of Zankel, and the CMLTD program open space in Thompson. Please keep in touch; we love hearing from our alumni!

Sincerely,

Felicia Moore Mensah

Chair, Department of Mathematics, Science, and Technology

Congratulations Class of 2024


Exterior shot of the Teachers College building with the words
Abrar Shamim portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Teachers College, Columbia University offers an exceptional environment for individuals passionate about shaping the future through teaching and mentorship. Through my journey to attain my master's degree, I have cultivated a comprehensive, interdisciplinary education that equips me to guide and inspire future generations, particularly those aspiring to pursue careers as oral and maxillofacial surgeons. 

Alex Lester portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Congratulations Class of 2024—we did it!

Amanda Moreno portrait
Mathematics Education, MA

Thank you!

Andrea Maidanik portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

I had an enriching learning experience at Teachers College and am grateful for all the incredible people I met. Participating in the different labs was crucial to getting involved in the community.

Bora Shin portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Congratulations to all my fellow graduates! I am deeply grateful to everyone who has been a part of my journey at TC. Your words of encouragement, constructive feedback, and endless patience have shaped who I am today. A heartfelt thank you goes to my beloved husband for being my rock. Together, we have achieved this milestone. 

Hao Gong portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Start here, go anywhere. The world is open to us!

 
Helen Xinyan Song portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, EdM

Immensely grateful for all the mentors and friends I've met throughout my journey in CMLTD. You know who you are (wink wink). I entered being confused about everything and left as a confident learning experience designer. It's been three years of chaos and craziness, but I wouldn't trade any bit of it. Yay to graduation! 

Jiayu Li portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA
Thank you to everyone at TC for the support throughout my academic journey! It’s been a transformative journey, and I’m excited to see where we all go from here. Cheers to new beginnings!
Jie (Jolin) Shen portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA
Family and friends, your unconditional love and support mean everything. Thank you! 
Jingjing Li portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Celebrate endings — for they precede new beginnings.

Kate Orgera portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Congratulations to all! Ten years ago this month, I was graduating from undergrad in what was one of the most rewarding days of my life. I know graduating from TC is going to feel just as, if not more rewarding, and that is in part due to the community here. While I will probably never stop learning and trying to improve, I can say the past two years have taught me so much about what I and others are capable of. It gives me hope, knowing some wonderful, thoughtful people are going out there to make the world a better place. I was scared to take this leap, but so, so glad I did. Thanks to all my teachers, friends, and fellow students who gave so much stimulating conversation and support -- I hope I've been able to do the same, in some way. "Everything will be alright in the end. If it's not alright, it's not the end."

Kathy Jingya Zhu portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

All memories at TC are treasured. There is a great big beautiful tomorrow, for everyone. 

Lauren (Chae Rin) Lee portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my parents, friends, and the CMLTD faculty for their continuous support and guidance throughout my journey at Columbia. Congratulations, class of 2024!

Lijia Zhang portrait
Mathematics Education, MS

To My Beloved Motherland, the People's Republic of China.

Linqi Leng portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Savor your moments here; we are meant to embrace the fullness of life. BTW,  Life offers a myriad of paths, and each choice you make is perfectly yours to embrace.

Mariana Lederman Edelstein portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Thank you to my professors and colleagues who empowered me in my own journey as a teacher and researcher. 

Nasriah Morrison portrait
Mathematics Education, PhD

Dissertation Title: Proof and Possibility: Emerging Mathematics Conceptions, Self-Efficacy, and Identity in the Stories of Contemporary Black Mathematicians

Congratulations, fellow graduates, and my most heartfelt thanks to all the friends, professors, and wider community members who shared your wisdom, time, and warmth with me throughout this journey. I am so grateful. 

Omar Howard portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Thank you to my parents, family and loved ones for their love, support and encouragement. These two years have broadened my perspective on how art, education and communication can work together to increase literacy. I hope to continue making strides towards a more expansive educational experience. 

Peijin Shen portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

I am immensely grateful for the professional support and mentorship I have received during my time in the Math, Science, and Technology Department. A special thanks to Professor Nathan for his incredible dedication in class. The hands-on constructionism tools and projects we tackled were not only educational but truly exciting, sparking a deep appreciation for the intricacies of our field.

I also extend my heartfelt thanks to Dr. Chang, whose unwavering support for our IP project was invaluable. 

As I reflect on the past two years at Teachers College, I am struck by how profoundly this experience has stamped its mark on my life. Meeting and working with you all has been a pivotal part of my journey, for which I am deeply thankful.

Rachel Rose portrait
Science Education, MA

Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who helped me get to this point! 

Randal Manago portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Project Title: Leveraging Photography for Visual Literacy in NYC's Title 1 Schools

I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the unwavering dedication and resilience shown by my incredible fellow students. Your courage, intentionality, and unwavering spirit have not only shaped my student experience and personal development but inspired me to continue partaking in social change. Thank you for your commitment to engagement and for embracing challenges with bravery. Together, we continue to grow stronger and create a brighter future.

Ruohong Zhang portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Happy Graduation

Shi Chen portrait
Mathematics Education, MA

I am truly grateful for everything I have learned at TC and to all of my professors. Thank you very much!

Sijia Yang portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

I'm grateful for this challenging and surprising journey. Learning is lifelong, and I'm thrilled to have explored so many possibilities. Thank you to my mentors, peers, and family for your invaluable support. As I move forward, I'll continue to push boundaries, learn, and grow. Here's to future adventures and successes!

Sophia Acquisto portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, EdM

Congratulations class of 2024… we did it!
Thank you to my professors and colleagues for supporting my research on using digital maps to tell local stories. I look forward to my next chapter as a Ph.D. student at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Coming soon: Dr. Acquisto!

Steven Azeka portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, EdD
Dissertation Title: The Implementation of Emerging Knowledge in K-12 Schools: The Challenge of Computational Thinking
A special thanks to my wonderful advisor Dr. Ellen Meier and my loving wife (now Dr.) Nasriah Morrison who I get the pleasure of graduating with!
Sunita Verma portrait
Mathematics Education, EdM

    As I stand on the threshold of graduation from teachers college, I am overwhelmed with a profound sense of gratitude that words alone cannot adequately express. It is with heartfelt sincerity that I extend my deepest thanks to each and every one of you who has supported me on this incredible journey.
    My family, my parents, your blessings, love, encouragement, and sacrifices have been the guiding light that illuminated my path. Thank you for being my rock, my cheerleaders, and my constant source of inspiration.
   To the esteemed faculty members of Teachers College, you have been the architects of my transformation, shaping me into the educator I am today. Your dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence have not only enriched my academic experience but have also instilled in me a deep passion for lifelong learning. Thank you for your guidance, mentorship, and belief in my potential.
    As I prepare to embark on the next chapter of my life as an educator, I carry with me the invaluable lessons, memories, and relationships forged during my time at TC. With your continued support and encouragement, I am confident that I will make a positive impact in the lives of my future students and contribute to the noble profession of teaching.

Thao Vu portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Thank you CMLTD for being a source of inspiration, knowledge, mentorship and knowledge. Thank you Dr Chang, Dr Kuwata and Dr Lee for your guidance and support throughout my journey here. CMLTD Friends,  all the best to your future journey!

Tina Keswani portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Deciding to pursue a Masters at Teachers College, Columbia University, as a part-time student, full-time employee at an organization and full-time mom, was a significant step for me, but it was one of the most rewarding experiences I've ever had. Engaging in the Computing in Education Masters program was an unparalleled educational journey. Interacting with a diverse cohort enriched with a mix of backgrounds and experiences was enlightening. The conversations, readings, and lectures during the program continue to resonate in various facets of my life, whether it's professional settings, academic gatherings, or casual discussions with friends and family. 

I am forever grateful to the peers and faculty members whose guidance, support, and new perspectives have made this journey into a profoundly fulfilling experience. Their partnerships have not only broadened my understanding but also empowered me to make meaningful contributions in the field of education with equity always on top of my mind. Thank you Teachers College. Congratulations to everyone!

Tyreik Kelly portrait
Science Education, MA

Rock On!

Wentao Wu portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Spring blossomed with flowers; Summer whispered with cooling breezes;
Autumn painted the leaves in fiery reds; Winter robed the earth in purest white.
Now, my chapter at TC CMLTD closes. To all who've made this program inviting and challenging, gratitude flows deep within me.
These two years, a precious memory, will be treasured in my heart forever.
As one story ends, another is revealed. New horizons await with open arms. It's time for me to carry on.

Xichen Li portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

The two-year program equipped me with a critical lens on educational technology and inspired me to discover the many ways I can find joy and fulfillment in the edtech field. I am grateful to all my teachers and classmates for their inspiration and kindness. Special thanks to my advisor, Dr. Chang, for her unwavering support and for hosting numerous office hours. I feel truly fortunate to be a part of this community.

Xihan Lu portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA
To all who made this journey more than I could imagine, thank you for the moments we shared and the memories we created at TC. Congratulations to all graduates!!
Xinyue Kiera Zhou portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

As a student at ITM, I learned a lot from the curriculum, as well as the internship experience in New York, and it reinforced my belief that I wanted to pursue a career in EdTech. These two years have been the most important and unique memories of my life. 

A big thank you to Prof Joey Lee, Prof Ariel Fleurimond, and Prof Rachel Um for their amazing help in guiding me toward my future doctoral studies. Their mentorship has been instrumental in my academic journey.

Yi Chen portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

It was a unique experience to engage in projects that expanded my knowledge and fostered my personal growth. A huge thanks to everyone who supported me at TC and for being part of my graduation journey. Your support has been invaluable.

Yinyun Zhu portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Woo-hoo! Congratulations Class of 2024! It has been so hard for the past few years and even now, but hang in there - we will be alright and fine! No matter where you will be after graduating from TC, wish everyone a delighted new journey ahead!

You Wang portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

At this special moment, I am wholeheartedly grateful to Teachers College for providing a precious platform where I could stand on the shoulders of giants and look out over the vast world. This educational journey will forever be etched in my heart. Thank you to every teacher for your dedicated guidance and support, which have equipped me with an exceptional perspective and boundless possibilities. Moving forward, I will continue to carry forward everything I've learned here, courageously advancing into the future.

Yunyi Wang portrait
Mathematics Education, MA

Thank you to everyone who supported me along the way. Here's to new beginnings and endless possibilities!🎓🎉
You may call me MASTER😎

Yuruo Lei portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, EdM
As I graduate from the CMLTD program, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my professors and peers for your guidance, support, and mentorship. They have been pivotal in shaping my academic and professional journey. Thank you for inspiring me, challenging me, and helping me grow in countless ways.
Zainab Zahid Mesiya portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA
Grateful for the experience and the opportunities I had in these two years! Congratulations to all my fellow cohort graduates!
Ziyu Wei portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

I thoroughly enjoyed my graduate studies and look forward to a more delightful future. Cheers to all the graduates!

Zoey Liu portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, EdM

Could not have done this without you all. It takes a village - I’m glad that this was mine.

Zihe Liu portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

I am grateful for the meaningful experiences I've had here. Wish you all the best in the future!

Zhuoer Chen portrait
Communication, Media, and Learning Technologies Design, MA

Project Title: Teacher Readiness Matters: Media Education and Workshop for U.S. Secondary Educators to Promote Media Literacy Among Generation Z

Immense thanks to my parents for their unconditional love and support, to my boyfriend Zerui and our beloved cats for always being my emotional pillars, and to all my friends, classmates, and mentors at TC for their invaluable help and guidance. I would also like to thank myself for persevering through tough times. To everyone, remember: don't be too hard on yourselves; just do your best and enjoy every experience along the way. Finally, congratulations to the Class of 2024—we've made it! Dobby is free! :D

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