Program Highlights

As an international student, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to find a welcoming and supportive academic home at the University of Florida. After completing the master's program in Early Childhood Education, I continued into the Ph.D. program in Special Education with a concentration in Early Childhood—largely because of the mentorship, resources, and support I received here. My doctoral journey has strengthened my research skills, deepened my commitment to inclusive learning, supported my focus on family engagement, and empowered me to promote belonging through culturally responsive practices for young children, families, and teachers.

The online asynchronous MAE program with the Early Childhood Practitioner Leadership track was a perfect fit for my full-time work schedule and educational goals. I applied the practical, research-based strategies in my role as a practitioner coach and project coordinator – strengthening my leadership skills and deepening my impact in early childhood education. I appreciated the course content, support and expertise of my professors, and flexibility of the program.

My time in UF’s MAE with an emphasis on Early Childhood Care and Education Policy program was transformative, equipping me with the knowledge and experiences to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application. This program provided opportunities to engage with national leaders, participate in hands-on research, and gain direct insight into the complexities of shaping and implementing policies that effectively serve young children and their families. The meaningful connections I formed continue to provide valuable guidance and open doors, helping me navigate the policy landscape and work toward meaningful change in the field.

The Early Childhood Education program at the University of Florida laid the foundation for my teaching career. The coursework, hands-on experiences, and the support of the amazing faculty helped me grow into the educator I am today. One of the most impactful parts of the EC program was the opportunity to observe and work in various classroom settings. Witnessing different teaching styles, and working with different aged students helped me discover what kind of teacher I wanted to be in my own classroom. Now entering my fifth year as a first grade teacher, I continue to use the skills, knowledge, and experiences learned through the EC program in my classroom daily. I am so thankful for the lasting impact the EC program has had on my teaching journey and my student’s learning. Go Gators!