Nikki Hreha is seeking a Master of Science in Education in Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment from Walden University to further her knowledge and skills in teaching. She received her undergraduate degree in Middle Childhood Education and has experience teaching middle school students. Through her graduate studies, she aims to learn how to create effective lesson plans and assessments that engage students in the 21st century. Walden's online program and course offerings suit her goals of expanding her skills in differentiated instruction and teaching diverse learners.

1. Goal Statement
Nikki Hreha
• Personal/Professional Goals
I am interested in graduate school because it allows me to extend my knowledge
in the field of education. Graduate school will allow me to stay updated in my
philosophies for teaching. After I receive my degree, I will use my new knowledge to
enhance my teaching skills. When I was selecting what path I would take as an
undergraduate I knew I wanted to do something that would make an impact in society,
but also would be something that I would find pleasure in doing. Education seemed to
fulfill both of those desires. I am in a position where I can be a positive influence among
young adolescents and I find happiness in knowing that I might play a small part in
helping some achieve their own personal goals. I am interested in the specialization in
Master of Science in Education- Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment because I want
to be able to create effective lesson plans and assessments, that not only just teach the
content I am required to teach, but to do so in an effective, engaging, and versatile way. I
want to become an educator that understands the needs and interests of the 21st century
learner.
• Academic Experience
I attended Kent State University as an undergraduate and received a degree in
Middle Childhood Education with concentrations in Science and Language Arts. During
my studies at Kent State, I took classes to enhance my content knowledge of science and
language arts. I also took courses that focused on teaching philosophies, differentiated
learning and instruction. I was required to complete field experience where I was
immersed in suburban, rural and city school districts.
• Research Experience
I have read literature and was required to write research papers on backward
design by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe. I also have completed papers on the teaching
philosophies of Harry K. Wong.
• Work /Other Experience
My prior work experience includes being a dietary and hospitality aid at Morning
View Care Center. I feel this position helped me in the field of education because I
gained experience working with the public. I had to be aware of the special needs and
interests of the residents I was in engaged with on a daily basis. I learned very quickly
that not everyone has the same needs and, most times than not, adjustments had to be
made to ensure those needs were met. I was also employed by Massillon Middle School
as a math and science tutor. I was welcomed into the classrooms to help with instruction
or worked with small groups on a particular topic and/or skill.

2. • Personal Qualities
Personal qualities that I possess that have made me successful in my profession
are being compassionate, encouraging, patient, enthusiastic, and compromising. I feel
these qualities are important not only towards my students, but also towards my
colleagues.
• Why Walden?
Walden would be a good match for me because it has the non-licensure
specialization I wish to pursue to help me achieve my goal of expanding my knowledge
in differentiated instruction and enrich my skills in teaching the 21st century learner. My
interest for Walden stems from the descriptions of the individual courses I will be taking.
The course descriptions are intriguing and seem to suit exactly what I am looking for in
my graduate education. In late November my small family of two will expand to three
and an online program will help cater to my needs as both a student and a new mom. I
will be able to receive a solid education within the confines of my home without
worrying about time wasted traveling on the road.