Tuesday, April 21, 2015

The End of the Road

This has been an amazing journey for me. Throughout this journey, I have embarked on life-changing transitions such as, purchasing a truck, moving from an apartment into a house and welcoming my son, Greyson, the newest addition to my family. 

Despite other trials and obstacles, I have arrived and conquered each one. As I arrive at the finish of this long journey, I have learned that there is nothing impossible for to accomplish, if I just keep my mind focused on Christ, stay motivated and believe in what I am doing. Having confidence in myself and my capabilities has truly set the tone for my accomplishment in this MSECS program. Another lesson I have learned, is that the EC field is not just another profession, it is a life-changing experience, conducive to what I make of it. The knowledge I have gained throughout this journey is priceless. The issues and trends surrounding the demographics of my community have become much more evident to me know, than when I entered into this program. During my Capstone course, I was compelled to research the poverty specs of my community, and I was appalled. I was stunned by the statistics displayed of poverty stricken families, as well as, families that achieved a High School diploma and less. This was a true eye opener for me, and convicted me to want to do more in my community. After developing my CoP, I have come to learn so much more about my parents in my classroom, my colleagues, and my, personal friends and family.
One long term goal that I have is to work for the Georgia Head Start Association in constructing a faultless Curriculum, which meets the standards of D.A.P. as well as, Georgia's Early Learning and Development Standards.
As I underwent the experience of completing my Capstone, I learned that I encompassed a strong passion in getting parents involved in the early education of their young children. I knew that I felt strongly about it, but I had no idea that I held such a passion for it, until completing my Capstone. The experience of completing my Capstone was an exceptional one, and I truly owe that to my Professor Lisa Embree. She has literally paved the way for my success in this program, but walking with me every step of the way. I know, that I would not have been as successful in completing my Capstone, if it had not been for Professor Embree. 
Professor Embree, I want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your commitment to me and my success; for your devotion, advice and guidance.   
To my fellow classmates, this is not farewell, but see you soon. The time will come when we will cross each other's paths once again, as we continue to strive and advocate for the same cause. I wish you all the best in your advocacy for quality Early Child Care and pray that the Lord bless you all. Thank you for all your support and advice throughout this journey, and CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2015. 


Yours Truly, 

Nicole C. 

4 comments:

  1. Nicole,
    Congratulations on your achievement. I don't know if I could have had a baby during this process and kept going like you did! I wish you all the best on your professional goals and getting to spend some well deserved time with your family.
    BethAnn

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  2. Congratulations! I can see that you have accomplished more than one of your dreams. It most feel good to be able to have your own house and most importantly experienced the joy of being a mother. I wish I could have the opportunity to experience it again, I had a miscarriage a few years back and I am still unable to conceive. Thanks to people like you and your hard work with your Capstone; many students will have the opportunity to have a better high school experience, keep up the good work and keep achieving all your dreams.

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  3. Hi Nicole,
    Congratulations! I am so grateful to have shared such a wonderful learning experience alongside you in this last course towards the completion of our Master's Degrees. It is evident that you are passionate about children, their families and the early childhood field. I am sure that there are great things ahead of you and wish you the best of luck in all of your future endeavors. Thanks again for the insight and collaboration you shared over the past eight weeks!

    Rhiannon

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  4. Nicole,

    It has been a great pleasure working with you these past few weeks. Thank you for your support with the discussions. You were always reflective and encouraging with your responses. You are an asset to the early childhood education field and your impact will make a difference in the lives of the children you serve. Wishing you the best of luck with your degree. The world is your oyster!

    Regina

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