“I Am Learning Effective Strategies that Come in Handy During Classroom Teaching,” Says M.Ed. Student, Emily H.

Emily H., a Canadian based in Istanbul, Turkey, is currently earning her Master of Education (M.Ed.) at University of the People. She grew up in Canada, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Women’s Studies and English from the University of British Columbia.

Over the past decade, she has balanced full-time international teaching work while raising her twins. Even now, Emily juggles work, family responsibilities, and her master’s degree. “I have had some major setbacks in the family. It hasn’t been easy to balance everything at the same time. There have been financial challenges, too,” she shares.

Why did Emily decide to enroll at University of the People? “I discovered UoPeople via a teaching colleague who was also a UoPeople M.Ed. student. She described how the program helped her at work and reflected a 21st-century educational approach. She was right! The M.Ed. program at UoPeople helps me shape my students holistically and contribute positively to the world. I am glad my colleague encouraged me to join here. The learning experience so far has been overwhelmingly positive. I have never looked back.”

Emily appreciates the flexibility offered at UoPeople and deeply values the knowledge and support extended by her instructors and peers. “It’s an empowering educational experience. I am learning effective strategies that come in handy during classroom teaching. It’s been the most useful program I have ever taken to improve myself as a teacher.”    

Looking ahead, Emily aspires to earn a PhD focused on identity texts in Uzbekistan, where she worked for three years. She also aims to continue helping secondary students become confident and capable individuals who can achieve their academic goals and navigate the complexities of modern life.  

She often finds herself studying late into the night after her children are in bed. Despite the challenges, Emily feels that her hard work has paid off, leading her to earn a valuable educational qualification that has enriched her both personally and professionally as a teacher. “My hard work has paid off. I am earning a highly useful educational qualification that is improving me personally and professionally. I have no complaints.”   

When not working or studying, she enjoys traveling, hiking in the beautiful mountains of Central Asia, and spending quality time with her family in Turkey. 

The world surely needs more inspired and positive educators like Emily. As a university, we are proud to be able to support her on her educational journey and wish her all the best for her future.