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Karen Alexander

Karen Alexander

Texas Tech University

Career Roadmap

Karen's work combines: Education, Writing, and Teaching / Mentoring

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Day In The Life

Teacher Educator, Associate Professor

I prepare undergraduate and graduate students to be Family and Consumer Sciences Educators

Skills & Education

Here's the path I took:

  • High School

    Easter High School

  • Bachelor's Degree

    Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences Communication

    The Ohio State University

  • Graduate Degree

    Family and Consumer Sciences/Home Economics Teacher Education

    The Ohio State University

  • Doctorate

    Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General

    The Ohio State University

Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be a Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary:

Bachelor's Degree: Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences Communication

Graduate Degree: Family and Consumer Sciences/Home Economics Teacher Education

Doctorate: Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General

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Defining Moments

How I responded to discouragement

  • THE NOISE

    Messages from Friends:

    You are too smart to be a teacher. You should be a doctor or a lawyer. Teachers don't make any money.

  • How I responded:

    Well, I am now Dr. Karen Alexander! I obtained a doctor of philosophy degree and have earned the title of Dr. It's just a different type of doctor! Students need well trained (smart) teachers. Find the career the makes you happy. If you find what makes you happy, then you'll likely really excel in that occupation. For me, being an educator is more than a paycheck. I receive rewards in many ways! However, I've been able to make a decent living as an educator. I can't imagine doing anything else.