• Secondary Advanced Placement English Teacher, Springfield Public Schools

MSU: How does Missouri State make it easier for you to work full-time, raise a family and go to school?

GI: Attending evening classes from 6-9 p.m. once a week has allowed me to plan ahead. I’ve been able to teach English at Parkview High School during the day and still grade papers in the evening and spend time with my wife and daughter. If I have a research project, I am able to plan ahead for those projects that my students are working on and for the time when I have to complete my project.

MSU: How will a master’s degree help advance your teaching career?

GI: Attaining a master’s degree will increase my pay from Springfield Public Schools, but it has also increased my knowledge of writing and the literature I use in my classroom. I show my seniors at Parkview what they can expect from graduate study at a university — how the work they are doing in my classroom corresponds to the expectations and demands of college-level work. They appreciate the preparation, and I can appreciate what I ask of them when we are doing research, typing papers and learning from each other.

MSU: Do you have the opportunity to conduct original research and work one-on-one with your professors?

GI: I have found the professors in the English department very helpful. From my first graduate course with Dr. Bill Burling, I have been guided to delve into the literature and research my interests, to find new research and avoid research that has already been performed.

MSU: Why did you choose Missouri State for your graduate studies?

GI: I attended Missouri State as an undergraduate student and I respected the professors. I thought highly of the learning that took place in the classrooms.

MSU: Any helpful hints for prospective graduate students?

GI: Graduate school is a commitment. You can take a great deal from your classes if you attend when you are prepared and take in what your professors have to offer. Never be afraid to approach your professors, work with your advisor to personalize your degree program and take classes that interest you.

MSU: Best place in Springfield to grab a cup of coffee?

GI: I stop at Kaldi’s in the Student Union every Tuesday evening before class. I do not know what I would do without them! Great lattes!

MSU: Best place in Springfield to wind down and relax?

GI: Patton Alley Pub is a great bar for variety in your beer consumption and enjoying the conversation of friends. Nearly Famous Deli has great food and family atmosphere.

MSU: Best place on campus to study?

GI: The library! I have spent many hours at a desk studying and writing in the quiet of Meyer library. I’ve never had to use the quiet rooms. I have always sat in the commons areas by a window if I need a stretch and a look outside, or a center desk if I wanted to concentrate.