Featuring Justin Barry '04
Graduate School: University of Pennsylvania; Temple University

Graduate Program: MS in Chemistry Education; M.Ed. Special Education

Information on Justin's employment profile

Position: Special Education Instructor
School: Mastery Charter High School; Lenfest Campus
Location: Philadelphia, PA

♦  What influenced your decision to go to graduate school?
♦  How did you explore graduate schools?

♦  Do you have any tips related to the application process?

♦  Did you obtain a Graduate Research/Teaching Assistantship? If so, what was that application process like?

What influenced your decision to go to graduate school?

Fellow teachers who told me about a free program to get my master’s degree.  This program at U-Penn helped me know my content knowledge better, and in turn be a better teacher.

How did you explore graduate school?

I talked to former students who went to the graduate program that I wanted to apply for and asked them questions to determine if it was the right fit for me.

Do you have any tips related to the application process? 

I would visit the graduate school and make yourself more than just a name on paper.  Visit the admissions office, ask questions, ask to sit in a class. 

Did you obtain a Graduate Research/Teaching Assistantship?  If so, what was that application process like? 

I did receive funding through a National Science Foundation Grant.  This application process was not difficult, but I had to demonstrate my learning in graduate school by creating an electronic portfolio website.

More information about Justin's experience with Mastery Charter High School and employment-related tips

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