“The MEd SPED, Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) program will help me take on more of a leadership role in this field I am passionate about.”

Hometown

Kailua, O’ahu

Department

Special Education

Related Degrees

• BCBA/BCaBA Course Sequence
• MEd, SPED: BCBA

Where are you currently working?
I work at Maunawili Elementary School as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT).

How did you become interested in this field of special education/exceptionalities?
I started working with students with autism in college as part of my studies in assistive technology and sign language. I fell in love with teaching right away and was able to continue working on talk devices, language acquisition programming, and more throughout the following years.

Why did you choose to pursue the MEd SPED, BCBA-Track program?
I think this track was right for me because it allowed me to continue working in the field while also learning about the next steps in my career. The MEd Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) program will help me take on more of a leadership role in this field I am passionate about.

What has been the best part of the program experience so far?
I have enjoyed many features of this program, but I have to say the best part of the MEd SPED, BCBA-Track program is the opportunity to meet and get to know the classmates and professors in the track. My classmates are leaders, teachers, and exceptional professionals in the field of special education. Just learning from them and their experiences has been an incredible blessing!

In what ways do you hope to make a difference using the knowledge you have gained?
I am in this program for the purpose of bettering myself as a teacher so that I can better serve the keiki here at home. I was living on the mainland for years before moving back home, and I am so honored to be serving the students back here on the island.

How are the people and the program in the COE helping you along your way?
The professors and advisors in the COE are incredible supports along the MEd SPED, BCBA-Track pathway. They provide invaluable feedback, coaching, and mentorship that is essential for anyone starting out in a program like this one. The professors I’ve had have also provided opportunities for further research and experience in areas outside of the classroom.

What are your post-program plans?
I hope to continue to work in the school system as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA). Additionally, this course pathway has ignited a passion for research that I didn’t even know I had! So, hopefully, I will be able to pursue some of those options as well.