Faces of NLU: Meet Susan Brewer
Meet Susan, a student at National Louis University (NLU) whose journey from educator to advocate is nothing short of inspirational. Susan’s remarkable story is a testament to her unwavering dedication to education and her pursuit of a brighter future for all.
Susan’s journey at NLU began with a clear purpose. As an experienced educator, she sought a program that would enable her to earn 18 credit hours, a requirement to teach at the university level. Her choice to enroll in the Master of Science in Communication program at NLU was a pivotal moment in her career.
Then, the pandemic hit, disrupting lives and plans worldwide. Instead of giving in to the challenges, Susan chose to persevere. She continued her educational journey at NLU, demonstrating the kind of resilience and determination that defines her character. Since 2018, Susan has been a dedicated student at NLU, consistently achieving a perfect 4.0 GPA. She even earned a spot in the honors program, a testament to her academic prowess and commitment to excellence.
Susan’s dedication to education goes beyond the classroom. She conducted quantitative research examining how cultural mismatch affects academic achievement in K-12 students, particularly in the Midwest and Chicago area. Her dissertation work will build upon her years of education and delve into the impact of cultural mismatch and educational reform.
NLU has played a crucial role in shaping Susan’s educational philosophy. The institution introduced her to culturally responsive teaching, helping her refine her natural teaching style. It provided her with the language and diverse approaches needed for modern education. Susan believes in creating environments where students feel comfortable, and NLU has been instrumental in honing her skills for a future administrative position.
Susan’s experience at NLU has been enriched by the caring and supportive campus community. Instructors have been more than educators; they’ve become mentors, providing her with the tools and encouragement needed to excel. As an older student, Susan initially felt intimidated but soon realized that she was valued and accepted by her instructors.
One memorable moment was when an instructor challenged her to draw from her vast experience, reminding her of her value. This mantra has empowered Susan to overcome self-doubt and push her boundaries.
After graduation, Susan aspires to follow in the footsteps of Marva Collins, an educator who started her own school to support impoverished students. Susan’s dream is to open her own school or develop a curriculum that addresses the needs of diverse cultures, echoing the transformative impact of her role model.
Susan’s advice to incoming students is simple yet profound: never give up. Reach out for help when needed and stay the course, especially in the often stressful doctoral program. Susan utilized counseling services to stay on track, demonstrating that seeking support is a sign of strength.
Susan’s journey at NLU is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence in education. Her story is an inspiration to all, showcasing the incredible impact one person can have on the world of education.
