Finding balance between theory and the real world
Megan Stutesman
Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development M.S.Ed., 2019
Before Penn GSE: Worked with children on the Autism spectrum in applied behavior analysis
After Penn GSE: Ph.D. student, Learning Sciences & Human Development, University of Washington
Support from the faculty in this program was essential in helping me move forward in my career. They welcome diverse ideas and compel you to think critically about research and action.
Q: Why did you choose to pursue a graduate degree in Human Development at Penn GSE?
A: I chose the ISHD program because I was drawn to interdisciplinary ways of solving problems and it allowed me to combine my interests in human development and education. The program’s applied emphasis was also appealing to me. Before coming to the ISHD program at Penn GSE, I had previously engaged with basic psychology research, and I was frustrated with the disconnect between the lab research and real-world problems.
Penn GSE does a great job of bridging gaps between academic theory, research, and real-world problems. I also chose to do my M.S.Ed. over two years and complete a thesis as opposed to taking the comprehensive exam—I liked the flexibility of the program to fit your personal needs and aspirations.
Q: What was the single most important thing you learned in the ISHD program?
A: If I had to choose the single most important thing I learned in the ISHD program, it would be approaching questions from multiple perspectives and levels. Human development questions are multi-faceted, and the most holistic approaches often involve multiple disciplines and multiple answers. There is no one “right” way to address human development questions. The program taught me that collaboration with others who have different perspectives than your own is vital and will challenge you to better yourself and your work.
Q: How did your experience in the ISHD program inform your career path?
A: Support from the faculty in this program was essential in helping me move forward in my career. They welcome diverse ideas and compel you to think critically about research and action. Not to mention, they are always happy to meet with you and provide guidance. This program gave me a platform to explore my ideas and hone my interests, which ultimately guided me to pursue a Ph.D. program.