Why I Chose UAlbany's Higher Education MS Program

A woman with long brown hair and a red top stands outdoors on a sunny day, with green grass and trees in the background.
by Hope Gibbons, UAlbany Higher Education MS Student

Many institutions have programs related to Higher Education, so you are likely looking at several options as you decide where to apply and attend graduate school. Here is my personal journey choosing UAlbany’s Higher Education MS program and why I am happy I decided to continue my education at this university. 

Before applying to graduate school, I felt a little lost about which graduate program was right for me. I took a gap year, worked full-time, did my research, made networking connections and heard about the Higher Education MS program at UAlbany. I learned that this avenue was broad, and I could go down different pathways with it such as academic counseling, academic coaching, residential life, recruitment and more. After looking at the program page, I knew this would be it for me. My main interest was helping others, something that is important to me career-wise. As for how it connects to my long-term goals, I like the idea of not being tied down to one specific area. In higher education, there are opportunities to move around and move up the ladder, and I think going into recruitment or academic coaching could be great options for me. 

One of my priorities was making sure I was applying to a program that would give me options in my career. I also wanted to make sure that I would enjoy what I was doing and pick a profession where I could separate work and home life. Another thing that I preferred when it came to choosing a program, was that there was no GRE required, and the Higher Education MS program at UAlbany, does not require it. 

I am glad I chose UAlbany because of the multitude of graduate assistantship opportunities. I had three prospective opportunities that would help me gain experience, all of which were forwarded to me by my networking connections, and I currently work as a Graduate Assistant for the Graduate School. 
Choosing UAlbany’s Higher Education MS program was the right decision for my academic and career growth. The programs flexibility, proximity to home, and opportunities made it an ideal fit. My networking connections and resources for graduate assistantships have further solidified my confidence in this choice. My MS in Higher Education from UAlbany will allow to me to pursue a fulfilling, dynamic career in higher education.