MTLA Program Graduate is Making a Big Impact in Local School System!

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can change the world. ~ Nelson Mandela

For the College of Charleston’s Teaching, Learning, and Advocacy Master’s Program, there is nothing more essential than preparing students to be “agents of change in their classrooms, schools, and districts” in their future pursuits as educators and administrators. That future is now for MTLA graduate Erica Callaway, who is making a big impact in local Charleston County school system by making the most of her graduate degree from the College of Charleston.

“I chose the College of Charleston as an undergraduate.  It’s a magnetic place.  When deciding on a graduate degree, my hope was that CofC would offer a program of study that would challenge my thinking and allow me to grow as a learner and leader.  My expectations were exceeded when I found the Teaching, Learning, and Advocacy M.Ed. The MTLA program provided me with greater knowledge about the system of education, especially education policy.  One of the most important things I learned was the importance of explaining the “Why?” behind a policy.  This simple action can be a powerful force for change.  In my current role as Performance Management Officer, my classroom experience and policy insights collide to create productive support for our schools in an ever-evolving system. The course progression was well-planned.  Having “Class, Race, and Gender” as a foundation was critical in preparing our minds for the diverse and controversial issues we studied as we went deeper into the program.  Our professors were eager for us to get messy with the topics and offered great support as we made sense of the material.  While the capstone felt overwhelming, at times, it was one of the best learning experiences of my life.  The support I received during that process was superior.”

While the challenges posed by her position can be overwhelming, Callaway relishes the opportunities they present and manages stresses in a variety of ways. “Education is my passion.  I come from a long line of educators, and am very proud of that heritage.  I believe in working hard, and don’t really understand how to not.  Prayer and travel are necessities of life.” Her hobbies also provide an outlet for relaxation, which include “surfing and yoga for balance (pun completely intended)” and “these days, making greeting cards is my creative outlet.”

Callaway sums up her enthusiasm and dedication to her work by citing her favorite quote from Mary Poppins: “In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun.  You find the fun and snap!  The job’s a game.” For current graduate students, Callaway offers these inspiring words: “Modify as a result of growth, but never compromise your dreams and goals.”