Final Reflection

Adan Rodriguez
USM

When I became an instructor at the U.S. Ordnance Center and School teaching newly
minted soldiers was when I realized that I had found my second calling. It was a great feeling to
able to mold future soldiers in the Army. At that moment is when I decided that I would become
an educator after my military career was over. Being in the Army we are seeing as public
servants and educators are viewed in the same light. Educators are entrusted with teaching the
future of America. This is a responsibility that should not be taking lightly. Im willing to accept
this challenge and will provide all my future students with best education possible.
After obtaining my bachelors degree in 2014, I knew I wanted to enroll in masters
program. USM offered an online program that was appealing due to the eight week courses and
concept of knowledge in action. I was familiar with a similar process, the military has a process
called the Military Problem Solving Process (MPSP). While unfamiliar with the action research
process in the classroom the MPSP and action research have similar steps. I also have
experience with the Lean Six Sigma process. The online courses offered the flexibility I needed,
being in the military my time can become unpredictable. I have also previously taking online
course as well.
The professors throughout the program made a large impact on my learning experiences.
They were all very interactive and provided excellent feedback. Every class that I have taking so
far has been fundamental sound. They have giving me an great foundation to build on. I believe
that when I have the opportunity to get into a classroom I will be well prepared for the challenges
of teaching all students. When I started my first class of the program I had inclination on where I

wanted to take my learning. That focus was teaching diverse students and high risk students.
They have become my focus in the military as well.
As a student and educator I feel that I have to continue my learning and education. That
is the only way to stay relevant in 21st century. Students deserve to have educators who are
lifelong learners. Being a lifelong ensures you continue to grow as an educator. The MAT
program is a way for me to continue this process. It has giving me an opportunity to learn from
doctors, superintendents, and educators from around the United States. Exposing me to new
tools and strategies to implement in my future classroom.
Some of my favorite courses of the program where Meeting the Needs of Diverse
Students, Teacher as Leader, and 21st Century Teaching and Learning Strategies. The entire
program focus on action research provided a way to put us in the forefront of leading change in
the classroom. It allows for educators to be their own researchers by giving back to their very
own students. Implementing small changes in instruction methods can provide large gains in
student growth.
The programs focus on the Graduate Program Outcomes facilitate for all students be able
to meet the needs of their students. It gives a basis for which all educators should have and
possess. The program is very reflective in the since it gives the students an opportunity to learn
from each other. In the military we say it is the best type of learning. Where you learn from your
peers by collaboration and by sharing experiences.
Overall, Im very happy with what I have learned so far with my time here at USM. The
instructors have been fantastic and very understanding to me being in the military. They were
flexible and allowed for me to grow through my deployments and field training exercise. I

started the program several years ago and it has often provided with a sense of normalcy
throughout my time in the military. It is difficult going to school but even harder when you are
in the military. USM provided me with the opportunity to accomplish my goals while still
serving.