Time really flies. It’s hard to believe I'm just one semester away from graduation. Looking back, it feels like just yesterday when I was deciding where to pursue my master’s degree. Today, I want to take a moment to reflect and share why I chose Teachers College and why, after two years, I can confidently say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
A Perfect Fit for my Academic and Career Goals
I chose TC because my program, Instructional Technology and Media, offers a truly unique learning experience that integrates technology and media into education—an area that perfectly aligns with my career interests.
Over the past two years, I’ve realized how essential it is to understand the role of technology and AI in shaping the future of education. The courses and projects at TC not only deepened my theoretical understanding but also helped me apply emerging tools in real learning contexts. It’s exactly the kind of foundation I wanted for my future work in education and innovation.
The Advantage of Being in New York City
Another reason I chose TC is its location, right in the heart of New York City, the global hub of culture, education, and opportunity. Being in such a vibrant city means I have constant access to conferences, workshops, and networking events that expand my horizons. These experiences have allowed me to connect with industry professionals, educators, and peers who are equally passionate about using technology to transform learning. It has truly opened doors for collaboration and inspired me to continue growing.
Flexible and Diverse Curriculum
Before coming to TC, I spent a lot of time browsing my program and course options. What immediately stood out to me was the flexibility—the freedom to explore a wide range of subjects and find what truly resonates with my interests. Especially for a first-year student, having the space to experiment with different courses is essential in discovering one’s long-term focus.
Recalling my time at TC, I took courses of all kinds, from practical to theoretical, from lecture-based to discussion-driven. Each class provided a new view on education and technology. They helped me think in a broader and more interdisciplinary way. Each one offered a new perspective on education and technology, helping me develop a broader and more interdisciplinary way of thinking.
Additionally, TC’s labs and learning resources were also essential for my growth. They offered hands-on spaces to try out new tools, test creative ideas, and turn abstract concepts into reality. These experiences made my learning journey not only richer but also deeply inspiring.
A Diverse and Inclusive Community
Another main reason I chose TC was because of its diverse and inclusive community. Before coming here, I browsed through faculty profiles and student stories online, and I was deeply impressed by how people from all over the world, each with different experiences and perspectives, came together to learn and collaborate. I could immediately picture myself thriving in such an open and inspiring environment.
After spending two years here, I can say that this belief was absolutely right. My classmates, professors, advisors, and supervisors have all been incredibly supportive, open-minded, and inspiring. I’ve learned just as much from conversations and collaborations with them as I have from my classes. Being surrounded by people who bring different perspectives has shaped the way I think, communicate, and approach problems.
Looking back, every aspect of my experience, from the curriculum to the people, has reaffirmed why I chose TC in the first place. It’s not just a place where I studied; it’s a community that has shaped how I think, create, and connect. And as graduation approaches, I know the lessons and relationships built here will stay with me far beyond these two years.