Student Voices - Graduate
Janet Lopez
Ph.D. in Education; Culture, Curriculum and Change
Class of 2007
Pueblo, Colorado
My background
I received my B.A. in psychology at Southwestern University and my M.A. in Educational Policy, Foundation and Practice from the University of Colorado-Boulder.
Why I chose the UNC School of Education
The Culture, Curriculum and Change program offered a level of flexibility and exposure to interdisciplinary coursework that I found extremely appealing. Although I had many schools to consider, I came to Carolina because I knew I would be able to follow the educational trajectory that I wanted to focus on, and not my advisor’s personal agenda.
My experience
During my three years at UNC, I have served as the graduate assistant for Dr. Regina Cortina. We have concentrated on studying the Latino migration to North Carolina and from that research we created a CD-ROM titled the “Handbook for Educators Working with Children of Mexican Origin.” We also created a learning unit for LEARN NC titled, “Bridging Spanish Language Barriers in Southern Schools.” Using these tools, I have had the opportunity to provide professional development sessions for educators around the state.
Student life
Early in my program, I established a strong social network with my peers. This was especially important because I had just moved to North Carolina. Now, the people in my cohort are some of my very best friends.
In 10 years…
In 10 years, I hope to be directing a policy institute that focuses on academic achievement and access to higher education for underrepresented student populations. Also, I hope to be a faculty member on a college campus and directing a college-prep program.