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Our Students: Nydia Leger '22, M.Ed. Education, 5-12

Posted by Kelly Norris on July 15, 2019 at 10:52 AM

Tell us about yourself.

Leger, NydiaMy name is Nydia Leger, and I am currently in my fifth
course of the M.Ed. in Education program at Fitchburg State University. I am blessed to be supported by my loving husband and daughter on this prominent educational journey. As the new school year approaches, I will begin my first year as an English Language Arts teacher for seventh grade. I am thrilled and eager to use what I have learned in my master's program in my very own classroom!

My family and I are avid New England sports fans and also love college sports. Some of our favorite activities involve sports events, going to Maine, swimming, spending time with family and friends, and traveling. I also have a yellow Labrador retriever who keeps me busy with his playful and energetic personality.

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Tell us about your educational background.

I currently hold a bachelor of science in business with a concentration in business administration. As I worked in the field of business, I realized that it was not for me. It was natural for me to provide excellent customer service and interact with colleagues and customers in a professional manner; however, I felt as if something was missing. I took advantage of an opening in a school district in a special education office. After four years of working in an educational field, interacting with amazing educators, and learning about all aspects of what happens in a school, I was inspired. I thought about what I wanted to do, and with my husband and daughter’s support, I began studying for my MTELs. I now have my provisional license in English 5-8.

Why did you choose the M.Ed. in Middle School Education program (now Education 5 – 12, Initial Licensure) at Fitchburg State?

I was ecstatic to further my education and obtain a master’s degree. Along with my enthusiasm, I was also nervous. How could I find the time to go back to school to earn a master’s degree? I worked full time, I would lose time with my family, and my daughter would be entering high school soon. I began researching options and came across Fitchburg State’s program. I discussed it with my husband, and we both attended an informational session. The department chair and advisor for the program, Dr. William Cortezia, took the time to discuss the program in detail and answered all of our questions. We were both sold! Not only did it work financially, but it also worked with my lifestyle and schedule.

What do you like about the program?

Each course is hybrid and seven weeks long with two face-to-face classes. I love the convenience of being able to go online on my own time to complete assignments. I also love being able to meet twice per course. Being able to spend time with professors and fellow cohort members truly builds a close-knit community. After five courses, I can honestly say that I feel close to my cohort members and we all rely on each other and work together in a professional environment. We have grown close and encourage each other to shine and grow. This makes me want to attend the face-to-face classes. The professors are accommodating, supportive, and knowledgeable with strengths in different areas. The department chair and advisor, Dr. William Cortezia, is there when you need him. Not only is he professional, intelligent, and organized, he is optimistic and friendly. To anyone who feels nervous about going back to school, he makes the transition as easy as possible, while also offering any support needed.

Being a part of this program has also granted me the opportunity to join a prominent group of educators and leaders called Kappa Delta Pi (KDP). KDP is an International Honor Society in Education that fosters excellence in education and encourages fellowship. As a KDP member, I have numerous resources, programs, and services available for my support and to help me advance throughout my teaching career.

Why should students choose Fitchburg State for their graduate education?   What advice do you have for working adult students looking to go back to school?

Choosing Fitchburg State for my graduate education was the best decision I have made. The knowledge I have gained in just five courses has already helped me to advance my career in education. I worked less than a year as an English Language Arts Title I Tutor and had the opportunity to become a seventh grade English Language Arts Teacher for the following school year. I did this by applying what I have learned thus far in this program, and by showing my passion to work with adolescents.

I understand that as a working adult, deciding to go back to school may seem like a daunting task; however, I highly encourage everyone to take the first step and attend the next informational session for cohort three. I can guarantee that after meeting Dr. William Cortezia, concerns will diminish and excitement will overcome anyone who is ready to take the next step to becoming an educator.

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Thank you to Nydia Leger for sharing this post about her experience in the M.Ed. Education, 5-12 (initial licensure) degree program.

Topics: Programs, Our Students