March 25, 2024
Olivia Durham is on the verge of completing her undergraduate studies in special education, with plans already in motion to relocate halfway across the country to embark on a doctoral program. While some may view the transition from a bachelor’s degree to a Ph.D. in educational psychology at Texas A&M University as a daring move, Olivia perceives it as a gateway to new opportunities.
Confident in her choice to pursue advanced studies, Olivia attributes this certainty to her academic journey at the Clemson University College of Education, her prior research involvement, and the invaluable guidance provided by various faculty members. Opting for the bachelor’s degree-to-Ph.D. pathway, Olivia aims to swiftly maximize her impact on individuals with intellectual disabilities, their families, and their transition from educational settings to the workforce.
“After my sophomore year, engaging in substantive research projects through Creative Inquiry, I realized that academia and research resonated with my aspirations,” shared Olivia. Witnessing the profound influence doctoral students wielded further solidified her path, prompting her to chart a course towards her academic ambitions.
Collaborating with doctoral candidate Mya Kelley and faculty member Shanna Hirsch on a research endeavor, Olivia also delved into another project centered on culturally responsive teaching through Creative Inquiry.
When deliberating on her choice of graduate school, Olivia highlights the pivotal role played by Antonis Katsiyannis, an esteemed professor of special education at the College of Education. Katsiyannis lauds the Texas A&M program as a premier educational platform nationally, aligning seamlessly with Olivia’s focus on transition and self-determination among students with intellectual disabilities.
Olivia recently participated in a workshop organized by Teaching Fellows and is part of the inaugural graduating cohort in the program.
Under the mentorship of Dr. Dan Zhang, a renowned expert in transition and self-determination, Olivia’s academic prowess and research acumen positioned her as an ideal candidate for the program, as affirmed by Katsiyannis.
Describing Olivia as a diligent and intellectually astute student with an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Katsiyannis commended her communication skills, work ethic, academic achievements, and engagement in research initiatives.
Additionally, Olivia was invited by Katsiyannis to contribute to the introduction and rationale of a seminal journal article published in Pediatrics, a prestigious medical publication. Collaborating with Katsiyannis and Luke Rapa, an associate professor in the Department of Education and Human Development, Olivia played a pivotal role in crafting the introduction, conducting the literature review, and refining the manuscript.
Reflecting on her maiden foray into academic writing, Olivia initially found the process daunting, given her collaboration with field experts. Nonetheless, the experience proved transformative, bolstering her writing proficiency and reinforcing her passion for research.
Olivia’s involvement with both Clemson LIFE and the Clemson LIFE program has been instrumental in shaping her perspective. Serving as a mentor and volunteer within Clemson LIFE since her freshman year, Olivia continues to dedicate her time, even amidst the demands of student teaching at Central Academy of the Arts, to assist LIFE students in preparing for an upcoming talent showcase.
Through her engagement with the LIFE program, Olivia has gleaned firsthand insights into the significance of post-secondary initiatives for individuals with intellectual disabilities. By amalgamating her mentorship experiences with her evolving research skills, Olivia aspires to effect positive change in facilitating the transition of these students from academic settings to independent living and employment opportunities.
“Structured programs play a vital role, but the unwavering support of parents and caregivers during pivotal life transitions is truly transformative,” Olivia remarked. “I am eager to leverage these collective experiences, integrate newfound knowledge, and propel my journey forward.”
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