Jalen Mask
M.Ed. Student, Higher Education Administration
"I attended Norfolk State University located in the Hampton Roads area where I graduated with a degree in Sociology and a minor in Political Science. It wasn’t until my junior year of undergrad that I began to entertain seeking out post-graduate schools. I always knew I was interested in pursuing my education because my ultimate career goal was becoming a University President.
Upon realizing a Higher Education degree would be the best avenue for me to obtain my long and short-term goals, I began doing research on different institutions that offered a holistic approach on experience, elite education, and networking. After numerous hours of research, I narrowed my findings to William & Mary. Through this, I discovered not only did they offer exactly what I was looking for but I was also impressed with the faculty and their dedication to their student’s success. This program is designed for an individual to get the type of practice and instruction needed to become successful in higher education and this was just exactly what I was looking for.
Therefore, I began signing up for webinars, I visited campus on a prospective day and open house. It was then I realized William & Mary was the right fit and program for me. Since making that decision I’ve been learning more than I could have ever imagined. Between my cohort, graduate assistantship, and professors I have gained incredible knowledge and life-long friendships and most importantly a hands-on approach about this profession each day!"
Jalen is a first-year Master’s student in the EPPL Higher Education Program and a graduate assistant for University Advancement working on Student Philanthropy programs at William & Mary.
