Working within higher education often sparks deeper questions about how institutions function and how students are best supported along the way. For Alexis Malbroux, that curiosity grew with her role as a full-time LSU employee and led her to pursue her own advanced education. Through the online Master of Arts in Education - Higher Education Administration from LSU, Alexis found the language, structure, and strategy to improve work she was already deeply committed to doing.
Learn more about her story!
Meet Alexis Malbroux
What program/school did you graduate from and what initially made you apply to your program?
I am a Spring 2025 graduate of the MA in Education - Higher Education Administration. My desire to pursue this program stemmed from a desire to learn more about the various functional units within higher education. As a full-time employee of LSU, I felt this program would provide the opportunity to better support students. This program has provided a thorough and comprehensive understanding of the significance of the work I do here at LSU.
What were your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?
Time and task management were my biggest challenges. The rigor of the coursework and the expectations for critical writing and research required strong time-management and organizational skills. I overcame these challenges by creating structured schedules, seeking support from faculty and peers, and using feedback as a tool for growth. I have a family and work full time, and being able to set aside time where I could fully devote my time and energy to my studies was very important. Establishing a designated assignment time was critical, and communicating that schedule with my support system was beneficial.
What was your favorite course or topic? Why?
Academic Advising was a joy! It aligned so well with my role as an employee at LSU. I had so much fun in that course. I keep the textbook from that course in my office and often refer to it for ideas on how to improve my own processes and navigate approaches to complex student issues and interactions.
What did you appreciate most about the faculty and support services?
The feedback I received from every instructor was timely, practical, and effective. The faculty are truly invested in your success in this program. Any time that I communicated with faculty or support personnel, a response was given promptly with detail and clarity. I never felt that I was alone in my decisions about course offerings or my path to completion. The level of support was invaluable.
How has the program impacted your personal and professional life?
I use a lot of what I learned from the program to better support my students.
What advice would you give to prospective students considering the program?
Think of this program as the opportunity to be to someone who you needed early in your path to higher education. Build relationships with faculty, peers, and professionals in the field, as networking and mentorship can greatly influence your growth and career trajectory. Finally, remain open to learning about different functional areas within higher education, as this field is broad and evolving, and flexibility can help you discover where you can make the greatest impact.
How do you see yourself using your degree in the future?
I am already using the degree and speak highly of this program to many of my colleagues seeking to pursue graduate education. In the future, I see myself using this knowledge to inform decision-making, design effective programs, and advocate for practices that help students thrive academically and personally.
What skills or knowledge from the program have been most valuable in your journey?
The most valuable skills and knowledge I have gained from the program include a strong understanding of institutional leadership and governance, student development theory, and equity-focused practices. The program strengthened my ability to analyze policy, assess programs, and use data to inform decision-making. Additionally, coursework and practical experience enhanced my communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, which have been essential in navigating complex institutional environments and supporting diverse student populations. These competencies have played a significant role in shaping my professional growth and confidence as an emerging higher education administrator.
Become a Leader in Higher Education with LSU Online
Alexis’s experience reflects how the online Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in Higher Education Administration equips professionals to deepen their understanding of educational institutions while staying rooted in student-centered work. Designed for working adults, the program allows students to apply theory directly to practice, build meaningful connections with faculty and peers, and grow into roles that shape academic and personal success for others.
Explore the program, and apply today!
