What’s Next for the Class of 2024?

We’re not sad at all about our students graduating—because we know they’re going to do some amazing work in the field of education.

The Rutgers Graduate School of Education (GSE) commenced its Class of 2024 Convocation on May 15 at Jersey Mike’s Arena, celebrating the achievements of and awarding degrees to more than 300 graduates.

We asked our graduates to share what their upcoming plans are post-graduation and reflect on their time at the GSE. Here are a few of them:

Justine Nagrowski
Ed.M., Elementary Ed and Middle School Math

Why did you choose your program at Rutgers GSE?

I like that I could get both certifications and have the options when graduating for both kinds of careers.

What’s next for you?

I have a job lined up, and I’m excited to start working and apply everything I’ve learned during my student teaching.

What did you enjoy most about your time at the GSE?

The community by which I was surrounded (my peers!).

Shoutouts!

I would like to give a shoutout to Lauren Opiela for being such a kind and reliable professor! She was always eager to help me, especially when it became time to prepare for the job search, and all her advice was truly appreciated.

Dr. Dan Battey and Dr. Brittany Marshall smiling behind a podium.

Dr. Brittany Marshall
Ph.D. in Education; Learning, Cognition, Instruction, and Development Concentration

What’s next for you?

I am starting a tenure-track position in elementary math education at San Diego State University this fall.

What did you enjoy most about your time at the GSE?

Working with my advisor, Dan Battey. I also enjoyed the weekly Lunch & Learns.

Shoutouts!

Dan Battey, Drew Gitomer, and Keith Weber, all of whom wrote letters of recommendation for me and supported me throughout my time at the GSE and during the job search.

Pink glittered graduation cap adorned with pink flowers. Text reads: She overcame everything that was meant to destroy her! This one is for me!

Jackleen A.
Ed.M., Educational Administration and Supervision

Why did you choose your program at Rutgers GSE?

I wish to become a leader and advocate in the school system for children with special needs and at-risk youth.

What’s next for you?

I want to pursue a leadership role where I can be a voice for at-risk youth in the education system.

What did you enjoy most about your time at the GSE?

I liked being able to take my classes online, without having to take away from providing for my family. 

What memorable lesson, moment, or interaction from the GSE will you carry for the rest of your life?

I started the program with an infant. She is now three years old. Dr. Verona was my first and last professor in the program. It was an overall humbling experience to be able to follow my dreams, being a single mother of three little kids.  Having gone through a traumatizing ordeal recently and a separation throughout the program did not stop me from continuing to fight and make this dream possible. My children are my motivation to keep fighting, and I hoped that when they saw me cross the stage at graduation, they were proud of me and saw that all things are possible, no matter what life throws at them.

Shoutouts!

Dr. Verona and Dr. Weber. They were both phenomenal professors and definitely made the entire experience worthwhile. Dr. Weber taught a class that I was petrified of taking, and he made it so easy to follow along and understand the material being taught. He held amazing conversations that made me look forward to his classes all the time. 

Group of CSA students.

Miranda Wheeler
Ed.M., College Student Affairs

Why did you choose the College Student Affairs (CSA) program?

The impact that college had on my life was profound and unforgettable. I hope to have that same impact on others and pave the way for other first-generation college students.

What’s next for you?

I have accepted a position as a Resident Director at UMass Amherst! I am very excited to start this June.

What did you enjoy most about your time at the GSE?

I learned so much during my three-year internship as an Assistant Residence Life Coordinator with Rutgers University-New Brunswick Residence Life. I met so many incredible people, and it was an honor to have an impact on a community that shaped me so profoundly. I loved working with college students, learning from my supervisors, and collaborating with campus partners. I also am so appreciative of my CSA cohort! Sharing an immersive experience with fellow future leaders in higher education is such a special aspect of the CSA program, and I would not have wanted to undertake this journey any other way. These interactions are by far my favorite part of my time at the GSE.

What memorable lesson, moment, or interaction from the GSE will you carry for the rest of your life?

The purpose of student affairs is to support students in achieving their goals, including the journey of becoming the adults, professionals, citizens, and leaders the world needs. While I was learning to facilitate that learning, growth, and development in others, I also felt that same support.

I experienced a transformation during my time here that made me a better ally, a more informed activist, a more equipped educator, a more experienced and driven professional, and a more healed and empowered human being. The sense of purpose I am leaving this experience with is something that I will take with me for the rest of my life.

Shoutouts!

I’m super grateful to Dr. Stephanie Brescia, Dr. Ebelia Hernandez, and Dr. Nichole Garcia for their instruction and mentorship during the course of my degree.

Madison Wheeler

Madison S.
Ed.M., Dance Education

Why did you choose Rutgers GSE and your program?

I have a passion for teaching dance, but I also wanted to become the most effective teacher I could be. It was enticing for me to receive a master’s degree in five years—in a subject area that I love.

What’s next?

I am currently looking for a dance teaching position in a public school. I will also be training in dance classes as well as engaging in performing and choreographing opportunities.

What did you enjoy most about your time at the GSE?

I enjoyed learning about how to be the most effective dance educator possible. I also enjoyed student teaching because it left a lasting impact on who I am currently as an educator.

What memorable lesson, moment, or interaction from the GSE will you carry for the rest of your life?

I loved getting to see my students grow over time during my full-time teaching placement in Phase 3. They worked really hard, and I got to continue to work with them during Phase 4 until their show.

Shoutouts!

Ken Tufo and Jalise Clark are great!