Anyesha Mishra
Ph.D. in Gifted Education Administration
Education Policy, Planning & Leadership
- 2024, William & Mary, Doctor of Philosophy, Gifted Education Administration
- 2017, Banasthali University, Master of Arts, Psychology
- 2015, University of Calcutta (India), Bachelor of Science, Psychology
What kind of educational and professional experiences did you have prior to beginning this degree?
I completed my undergraduate and post-graduate degrees in psychology and then completed a one-year post-graduate diploma in Education of the Gifted from India. After completing my degree work, I started working as a class coordinator and faculty for the same course. Over the years, I have taught giftedness-related topics, coordinated and conducted several awareness programs and workshops, and also worked on a few research projects in India.
As a student pursuing a doctorate in Gifted Education, why did you choose this field, and what motivates you in this work?
Making an impact through my work motivates me. Gifted Education in India, though having a history, is comparatively at a nascent stage. It is only recently that the need has been appreciated by the country's educational policy. There are many notables who are working to enhance the potential of gifted children from various parts of the country and a diverse population. But a lot more needs to be done in the country to cater to the wants of such children who can further bring a change to the society with their talent. Coming from a psychology background, I developed an interest to understand these individuals and work towards their development.
What do you hope to be doing after graduation? In 10 or 15 years?
My immediate goals after graduating are to work on several research projects with international collaboration and work at the policy level in India. This will help me to incorporate appropriate educational strategies and plans for the enhancement of the gifted learners along with the other children including training professionals. These immediate goals will lead to achieving my long-term goal, which is to establish a center on understanding and educating the gifted population.
Why did you choose William & Mary and specifically your degree program? What sets this degree program apart from those offered at other colleges?
This degree program is strongly aligned with my interest area and very few other colleges focus specifically on the administration aspect of gifted education at the doctoral level. This program develops the competency of the student to work at the policy planning and leadership level. William & Mary's work in gifted education is known worldwide. I had studied several models and pieces of work in gifted education by eminent professors at William & Mary while in India and have always wanted to experience it closely. The specific and unique courses offered are a bonus. And when I was admitted here, there were no second thoughts about attending.
What has been the most influential experience you've had so far in your program?
Every experience in my coursework and assistantship here has been influential. Every step of the program has helped me evolve and hone my skills. Here you go beyond the traditional learning process and get a view outside the classroom. The coursework has also helped me strongly in developing my critical thinking skills and looking with a holistic perspective.
Is there any additional information you would want a prospective student to know about the School of Education and its degree programs?
If you are thinking about applying for any of the courses here I would strongly encourage you to do it. This is the right place to refine your knowledge and skills. You should not hesitate to reach out to the faculty and colleagues here. Help and support through resources and mentoring are always available if you need them. You would feel "at home" here which will further encourage you and motivate you to work toward your goals.
