The Southern Nazarene University Master of Arts in Educational Leadership program is very popular in Oklahoma because the program is designed by educators for educators. It was the perfect program for Spring Bruins who currently works for Putnam City Schools as the elementary administrative intern.
“The main reason SNU was the right school for me to pursue my master’s degree is the one day a week, one class at a time format. This format made it easy for me to work full time and be present for my family as well,” said Bruins. “Once I began the program, the integration of faith with learning and leadership was an added bonus and a major factor in my decision to begin the doctoral program shortly after completion of my master’s degree.”
Education is one way an individual can better their position in life. For Bruins, the opportunity to attend SNU and earn her masters also allows her to pursue career opportunities she would otherwise not be qualified to take.
“My master’s degree will first increase my income, but more importantly it has opened doors and provided opportunities to advance my career that I would not have had otherwise. Both my master’s and doctorate degrees have helped me better understand myself and my “why,” better understand those I lead, and have a better understanding of the inner workings of public education,” said Bruins.
Like many of her classmates, there are several things about the program Bruins said she appreciated and enjoyed.
“The focus on being a servant leader has definitely been one of my favorite parts about being at SNU. I had not heard this term before attending SNU, and it put to words what I have long believed to be true. I have also enjoyed the supportive staff and the support and camaraderie of my cohort,” said Bruins. “I was surprised by the tremendous amount of support from staff and my cohorts. I was also surprised by how manageable the course work has been. That’s not to say it has been easy, but with all the support and open communication it has been very manageable.”
Bruins offered this advice to anyone looking to further their education at SNU.
“I have had this conversation with people and the thing that always pops up is the cost and I tell them it is worth every penny that you spend. The curriculum and instructors go deeper than just information you will need to pass a certification test. They are people who have or currently work in the field and are full of words of wisdom beyond textbook definitions and make the learning and the work meaningful,” said Bruins.
