Student Voices - Graduate
Tod Ray
Master of Arts in Teaching
Class of 2008
Durham, North Carolina
My background
After growing up in Ohio, I attended the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. I then served five years of active duty studying Nuclear Engineering and working on a submarine. I left active duty to spend more time with my sons, who are now 21 and 23 years old. I worked in the aerospace industry for three years and the automotive industry for 15 years, while continuing to serve in the Naval Reserves. I left industry at the end of 2006 to pursue a career in education.
Why I chose education
I come from a family of teachers and to this day I believe that some of my early teachers had the most positive influence on my life and decision making during my formative years. I want to give back and have an opportunity to influence others positively.
Why I chose the UNC School of Education
I chose the M.A.T. program at UNC-Chapel Hill because of the School's reputation, its proximity to my current home and the relatively quick path to gain licensure.
My experience
The M.A.T. program has provided a perspective that I did not previously have. My previous education was all technically oriented. Getting an arts degree and learning about educational reform in a more liberal setting has been eye-opening and enjoyable.
Student life
I've enjoyed being a student again and having classmates who are 20 plus years younger than me. Hopefully I have provided some perspective for them as well.
My inspiration
My inspiration comes from my father, who is a retired teacher/administrator. He told me that there was never a day that he didn't look forward to going to his job.
In 10 years
In 10 years, either I’ll be teaching high school math and having the time of my life, or I’ll be back in school looking for an opportunity to pursue my next passion.