Breanna Tillie
After several years of endless studying, getting minimal sleep, taking difficult exams and completing elaborate projects, many students agree that finally receiving their desired bachelor’s degree is a satisfying relief. The mere thought of additional schooling after this milestone may appear overwhelming as students are ready to begin their professional careers.
However, the University of West Georgia offers students an opportunity to receive a graduate degree in numerous programs by delivering all course material completely online. The UWG online option of graduate degree completion allows for career advancement and increased knowledge, all while allowing students the flexibility to begin working full time in their careers.
“I wanted to get a master’s degree to help me grow upon the skills that I already have to best help my students,” said Emily Harris, a graduate student at the University of West Georgia currently pursuing Music Education while working full time as an elementary school music teacher.
“A lot of the other music teachers in my county had also chosen the program at UWG,” continued Harris. “It can be really hard to find an online Music Education program for a master’s degree.”
Harris believes that being in the master’s program and teaching at the same time has enhanced her skills and benefited her work.
“It helps me stay aware of the work I’m having my students do,” said Harris. “I’ve been able to focus on the most important aspects of my teaching.”
Although being a student and simultaneously working full time can be a challenge, Harris states the online convenience of the degree program is easy to cooperate with.
“The program being online is one of the biggest benefits,” said Harris. “I try to provide my music students with every opportunity that I can. Community performances and musicals keep them engaged and excited about music. I really appreciate the program being online with all of the other things that I do.”
The flexibility of the online program gives Harris the time to focus on teaching music to children, which is what she loves most.
“The most rewarding parts of my job are the light-bulb moments where things finally click for the kids,” says Harris.
Despite studying music at the University of West Georgia and teaching music full time, Harris says her passion for the art has never wavered.