Doctor of Education Graduate Laura Morrison

Laura is originally from Toronto, ON, and currently resides in Kailua, Hawaii. She continues to teach and research at two post-secondary institutions. 

What made you want to study at the Werklund School of Education? 

I was working in higher education and this was a natural next step. I wanted to remain in academia and to continue teaching and researching in the post-secondary environment. I had colleagues at my institution who had been students and instructors at Werklund and they spoke very highly of it. 

What was your favourite part about Werklund? What is your most memorable Werklund experience

The structure of the program was its strength. I really appreciated attending classes in person in the summers and then completing the other two semesters virtually. This allowed a lot of work and life flexibility. Although the summers were intense, they were incredibly interesting and the instructors were very supportive. 

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

Actually, all of the instructors I had were impactful. I wouldn't be able to highlight one of them over another. They all had different strengths and I connected with them in different ways. This meant I learned something new and was stretched in new ways in each course I took. 

What is the most important lesson you learned during your time with Werklund? 

Too many to pinpoint just one! Though, I felt that the way the virtual semesters were structured was particularly effective -- there was a good balance of teaching, cognitive and social presence (Garrison et al., 2000). I noticed that the instructors were particularly skillful at maximizing the discussion board. 

What did you go on to do after you completed your degree?

I am continuing to teach and research at two post-secondary institutions. 

What advice would you give to those about to begin their journey with Werklund?

It will be a rich educational experience, so permit yourself to become immersed in the work. You will grow and learn a lot!