Graduate Instructor, University of Missouri
"Because of my skills in Family Life Education, I have earned a provisional CFLE certification and am developing and teaching a family screen time workshop here in Missouri. Without this degree and CFLE experience, I would not be where I am today."
CSP graduate Ellen Jordan received her Master’s in Family Science in ‘19. We caught up with her to discuss her experience as an online student at CSP as she continues to pursue higher education as well as how CSP helped prepare her for her future endeavors through her classes and professors.
Q: What motivated you to continue your education and pursue a degree from Concordia?
A: I wanted to pursue a doctorate, but first wanted a master’s degree. I was impressed with Concordia’s option for family science with an emphasis on family life education.
Q: What are your career goals?
A: I aim to be a professor. Now I am working as a graduate instructor as a grad student at the University of Missouri.
Q: Describe your current job role and responsibilities:
I teach public speaking courses and am responsible for amending the syllabus to fit my course, teaching my students public speaking skills, creating exams, and grading speeches, assignments, and exams.
Q: Why did you choose CSP?
A: I chose CSP for the program’s emphasis on family life education. I felt that the practical experience would provide credibility and expert knowledge to my resume/CV.
Q: How would you describe your CSP experience?
A: Great! I loved the format of the online classes and I enjoyed getting to know my cohort. My professors all seemed very knowledgeable and interested in my success.
Q: Who were some of the people at CSP that influenced you the most, and how?
A: Lisa Krause! She was a great professor during the first course in the program and provided me a letter of recommendation for my doctoral program. She also agreed to be a reference for me on a job application for community education. Also, Anders Davidson was also very helpful. He too wrote me a letter of recommendation for my doctoral program and was highly supportive of me.
Q: What are your favorite memories from your program?
A: I enjoyed having the weekly online chats with the cohort. This format allowed me to get to know my cohort while learning online.
Q: How has your CSP education impacted your life and career?
A: I have so much practical experience that has translated into my continued education! Because of my skills in FLE, I have earned a provisional CFLE certification and am developing and teaching a family screen time workshop here in Missouri. Without this degree and CFLE experience, I would not be where I am today.