This Educator Is Taking Her Career to the Next Level with the Online LSUS M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction

“I’ve Gotten Feedback That I’m More Confident and Strategic” 

When Shannon Jones decided to pursue her online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from LSU Shreveport, she knew she was signing up for more than a new degree. She was investing in a mindset shift.

As a busy professional with a full-time job and a family to care for, Shannon needed a different kind of program. She needed one that could help her grow on her schedule without sacrificing depth, support, or connection.

What she found at LSUS was all that and more. Through faculty who prioritized meaningful engagement and a curriculum that challenged her to grow as both an educator and a leader, Shannon discovered a new confidence in her abilities and a renewed passion for her work.

Learn more about Shannon's journey with the online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from LSUS!

Meet Shannon Jones

1. What were your biggest challenges, and how did you overcome them?

My biggest challenge during the program was definitely keeping up with the weekly schedule while juggling my family and work responsibilities. Grad school is demanding on its own, but adding a full-time job and family life into the mix made it feel overwhelming at times. There were moments when deadlines crept up faster than I expected, and I'd be stretched thin trying to give my best to everything. To overcome this, I leaned hard into time management—something I'd always thought I was decent at, but this program really put it to the test! I started breaking my weeks into smaller, manageable chunks. I'd block off specific times for coursework, like late evenings after the kids were asleep or early mornings before work, and stuck to it as much as I could. I also learned to prioritize and let go of perfectionism—sometimes "done" was better than "perfect." My family was a huge support, too; they understood when I needed to hunker down and gave me the space to focus. Over time, I found a rhythm that worked, and it taught me a lot about resilience and adaptability—skills I still carry with me.

2. How has the online learning experience differed from your expectations?

Having taken online courses before, I went into the program with a pretty good idea of what to expect—flexibility, self-paced learning, and a lot of screen time. For the most part, it lined up with that. I appreciated being able to study from home, especially with my busy life, and the program's structure was clear and manageable. What surprised me, though, was how much I connected with my professors and classmates despite it all being virtual. I'd expected it to feel a little isolating, but the discussions and group gatherings brought a sense of community I hadn't anticipated. One thing that stood out was how much discipline it required. I knew online learning meant being self-directed, but this program demanded even more accountability than I'd faced before. It wasn't just logging in and checking boxes; I had to really engage with the material to keep up. That intensity exceeded my expectations, but it also made the experience more rewarding because I could see my growth week by week.

3. What was your favorite course or topic? Why?

Oh, hands down, my favorite course was Intro to Adult Education. I loved diving into how adult education evolved—it was fascinating to see how it's shaped by culture, economics, and even politics over time. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the field and why it matters so much today. The course wasn't just dry facts either; it sparked great discussions that made me think about education in ways I hadn't before. I also really enjoyed the leadership course—it was a close second! It was fun because it mixed theory with practical applications, like how to motivate people and lead effectively. I could see how those skills tied directly into my passion for educating adults. Both courses were engaging in different ways, but they stuck with me because they fed my curiosity and gave me tools I could actually use.

4. How did the program prepare you for your career or career advancement?

The program was a game-changer for my career. It focused on curriculum and instruction for adult education in a way that gave me a solid foundation in designing learning experiences that work for adults—whether in a classroom, a workplace, or even a community setting. I learned how to assess needs, build relevant content, and deliver it in ways that resonate, which has been invaluable in my work. Beyond the technical skills, it boosted my confidence as a professional. I feel equipped to take on bigger roles, whether leading projects, training others, or advocating for better educational practices. The program also sharpened my critical thinking and problem-solving, which I use every day. It's not just about the degree on paper—it's the mindset and expertise I gained that have opened doors and set me up to keep growing in my career.

5. How has the program impacted your personal and professional life?

On a personal level, this program pushed me to grow in ways I didn't expect. Balancing everything forced me to get organized and disciplined, but it also made me more patient with myself. I learned I could handle more than I thought, and that's been empowering. My family saw me working hard toward a goal I cared about, and I think it set a positive example for my kids about perseverance and lifelong learning. Professionally, it's elevated how I approach my work. I'm more intentional now—whether I'm teaching, collaborating, or planning, I bring a deeper understanding of adult learning principles to the table. Colleagues have noticed, too; I've gotten feedback that I'm more confident and strategic, which I credit to the program. It's also reignited my passion for education, reminding me why I love this field and inspiring me to keep finding new ways to make an impact.

6. What advice would you give to prospective students considering the program?

I'd tell them to go for it but be ready to commit. This program is amazing if you're passionate about education, but it's not a walk in the park—you'll need to carve out time and stay on top of things. My biggest piece of advice is to plan ahead. Get a good calendar system going and map out your weeks, especially if you've got a job or family to balance. Don't be afraid to lean on your support system either—let your people know what you're taking on so they can cheer you on. Also, engage as much as you can. The online format might feel solo at times, but the more you connect with your professors and classmates, the richer it gets. Ask questions and join discussions—it's worth it. And finally, trust the process. There'll be tough weeks, but when you finish, you'll look back and see how much you've grown. It's an investment in yourself that pays off.

7. Is there anything else you'd like us to know?

I'd just add that I'm really proud to be an LSU Shreveport alum. This program didn't just give me a degree—it gave me a new lens on education and a stronger sense of purpose. I'm grateful for the faculty who challenged me and the flexibility that let me make it work with my life. It's an honor to represent the school as an ambassador, and I hope my story inspires others to see what's possible here.

Discover What's Possible with an Online M.Ed. Degree from LSU Shreveport

The online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from LSU Shreveport is for educators like Shannon—professionals who want to strengthen their impact while balancing real-life responsibilities. With a flexible format, career-focused curriculum, and outstanding faculty support, this program empowers educators to lead, innovate, and grow.

Whether you're ready to move into leadership, expand your instructional skills, or bring new energy to your current role, this degree can help you make it happen.

Learn more about the online M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction from LSUS and take the next step toward your goals.