Graduate Student Liaison Spotlight: Meet Allison Freed

·         Hometown: White Cloud, MI

·         Current university: Michigan State University

·         Program: Educational Psychology and Educational Technology

·         Advisor: Dr. David Wong

·         Graduation year: Spring 2014

·         Hobbies: Running, yoga, traveling, gardening, SCUBA diving, outdoor activities like camping and hiking

How did you decide to go to graduate school?

One of my professors at Central Michigan University encouraged me to apply for graduate school.  She had attended and received her PhD. at Michigan State University and told me about the program.  I was excited to learn more about student learning and science education, so I applied.

What did you do before going to graduate school?

I was a high school science teacher, special education teacher, and volleyball and track and field coach in Grand Ledge, MI.

What do you like best about your program/school?

I am most impressed by the flexibility within the College of Education at Michigan State.  I can take courses from a variety of programs and feel as though I can work with any professor within the college.  It is nice to know I can be accepted into many different research groups and have a variety of teaching opportunities.

What are you current research interests?

I am currently interested in how significant life experiences in nature lead to environmental attitudes and behaviors in women. 

I'm also interested in how students' scientific application and inquiry practices are connected in regard to carbon transforming processes such as photosynthesis, biosynthesis, and cell respiration.

What is your favorite article and why?

Paisley, K., Furman, N., Sibthorp, J., & Gookin, J. (2008). Student Learning in Outdoor Education : A Case Study. Journal of Experiential Education, 30(3), 201-222.

I used this article as a basis for organizing and completing my practicum research on students' experiences and perceived learning during an outdoor service adventure program.

What was your proudest moment or greatest accomplishment?

My proudest moment was when I was chosen for a fellowship for global understanding at MSU.  The fellowship allowed me to go to Botswana, Africa for two weeks and study their education system.

Thanks for Participating Allison!