Master of Education Graduate Joyce Jakobsen

Joyce has called Calgary her home for over three decades. She completed a BFa in Visual Studies and BEd at UCalgary before starting the graduate program at Werklund. 

Why did you choose to study at the Werklund School of Education?

The decision to study at Werklund School of Education was straightforward: I completed my first two degrees at the University of Calgary, and I already knew a professor from my previous degree currently teaching at Werklund. 

How did you arrive at your thesis topic? What drew you to that particular area of focus? 

Learning to hone my creativity skills in a practical way was particularly interesting, so I chose Collaborative Creativity for Social Innovation and Strategic Design. As I have always had an affinity to learning with digital technology, Leading and Learning in a Digital Age was a natural program choice. 

Who is someone who had an important influence on your experience at Werklund? Tell us about their impact. 

Professor Robert Kelly, in his Collaborative Creativity for Social Innovation and Strategic Design class said, “you are all co-authors of the collaborative culture of creativity that has been created.” The sentiment is true throughout the course of the program. His direction steered the development of a few milestones in my life since I took an optional class in visual fundamental in my first-year undergraduate study. I continued to take courses in art education and eventually it became a career in art education. After a decade of teaching, the influence on my experience at Werklund continues to impact my professional life. During the pandemic, I reached out to him regarding a graduate program he was offering at Werklund. Combined with another program, it became my current sabbatical year. 

What is the most important lesson you learned from your graduate studies experience? 

Trust the process! 

Where has your education from the Werklund School of Education taken you in your career?

My education from the Werklund School of Education took me overseas teaching for several years through the Teaching Across Borders program, and a decade in middle school art education in a prominent school board in Calgary. 

Outside of Werklund, what are your favourite pastimes? Do you have any interesting hobbies or talents? 

My favourite pastime takes me outdoors for leisure strolls in the mountains with family and friends, travelling to be near bodies of water, photography and painting. 

What advice would you give to those about to begin their graduate studies journey? 

The Graduate program is transformational both professionally and personally. Through the exchange of collective thoughts and ideas in class, I have a sense of renewal towards my professional practice. 

What do you plan to do after you have completed your degree? How do you hope to make a positive impact in the community?

I hope to explore my career options after I have completed my degree. A week ago, a colleague approached me to say I inspired her to take the first step toward applying to graduate school. I would say I am already making a positive impact in the community. 

Please share any additional comments

My education from the Werklund School of Education took me overseas teaching for several years through the Teaching Across Borders program, and a decade in middle school art education in Calgary. Completing my graduate studies will take my career to new heights.