FAU Graduate College

🌟 Alumni Spotlight: Jennifer Klasfeld🌟

Jennifer shares her story below:

"Hi! My name is Jennifer, and I am currently at Florida Atlantic University pursuing a Masters of Education (M.Ed) degree in Elementary Education, alongside an Instructional Design Certificate. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, in May 2025. After I obtain my Masters, I will begin my doctoral journey in the Ph.D program in Curriculum and Instruction, specializing in Instructional Technology. Hopefully, I will be a 3-time degree receiving student from FAU. GO OWLS!!! Furthermore, I will also begin working as a Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) around the same time.

My research focus will concentrate on examining the impact of professional development on elementary school teachers to implement gamification-learning platforms to support diverse student learners across the board. There is a significant obstacle on integrating game-based learning softwares and educational simulations. Many of the elementary school educators lack the technical demonstration on how to integrate game elements into lesson-planning curriculums due to tech and budget constraints, curricular misalignment, and a lack of funding in school districts to teach all educational personnel.

I have always wanted to become a part of the education field, going back to when I was around 6-7 years old. As an educator and researcher, my goal is to bring equality and cultural awareness to all students in all classrooms, supporting their educational needs, and being their advocate. After I obtain my Ph.D, my plan is to become a tenure-track, full time professor in either the Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) or Educational Technology department. I am also a first-generation South African-American college student as my mom’s side immigrated to America from South Africa in 1991. Outside of education, I love to spend time with my pet cats, guinea pigs: Twixie and Latte, friends and family, playing on my PlayStation 5, going shopping, being outdoors, going to the beach, listening to music, and traveling when I have free time".

Keep up the great work Jennifer!

Reminder! The Florida Atlantic Graduate College will host the University's 10th Annual Three Minute Thesis Competition beginning October 26th! Stay tuned.

The Florida Atlantic Wave Competition is coming up! The Wave Competition is an undergraduate and graduate applied research and entrepreneurial competition challenging students to submit and develop innovative ideas targeting societal problems. Applications close October 12th!

For more information visit: https://bit.ly/46Yj4qc

Florida Atlantic Graduate College will host the University's 10th Annual Three Minute Thesis Competition (3MT®) live, in-person at the Boca Raton Campus!

For more information visit: https://bit.ly/4xQFDsu

Join the FAU Graduate College for our Open House and discover everything you need to take your academic journey to the next level. From exploring graduate programs to connecting with faculty, staff, and future classmates, we’re here to help you find your path to success!

Program of the Week: Master of Science in Economics

What makes it unique: One can complete the Master of Science in Economics degree in as little as 12 months with a full-time course load. Alternatively, one may spread the coursework over a longer period.

For more information visit: https://bit.ly/4cUGQXB

🌟 Alumni Spotlight: Richelle🌟

A recent Florida Atlantic University graduate who earned her B.A. in Computer Science and M.S. in Data Science and Analytics. Throughout her time at FAU, Richelle has balanced academics, research, athletics, leadership, and service while continuing to grow within the FAU community.

“My time at Florida Atlantic has been filled with growth, opportunity, and unforgettable experiences. I’ve had the opportunity to challenge myself academically while also developing as a student-athlete, researcher, leader, and mentor. As a member of the Florida Atlantic Track & Field team, athletics has been a major part of my college experience and has taught me discipline, perseverance, and how to balance multiple responsibilities. Outside of athletics, I serve as the Public Relations Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and participate in community service through the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).

Academically, FAU has given me opportunities to grow through research and teaching. I currently serve as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, and I’m excited to continue my journey at Florida Atlantic as a Ph.D. student in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. I’m incredibly grateful for the professors, mentors, teammates, friends, and organizations that have supported me throughout my journey. A special thank you to Coach Smolka for his guidance and support throughout my time as a student-athlete, and to Dr. Furht for his mentorship and encouragement throughout my academic and research journey. Their support has played an important role in my growth at FAU. Florida Atlantic has truly helped shape who I am today, and I’m excited for what this next chapter will bring".

Keep up the great work Richelle!

Open House is coming up! Don't forget to save the date in you calendars.

For more information visit: https://bit.ly/4gXRLB5

Thank you for giving to the Florida Atlantic Graduate College! Every gift makes a difference and helps our graduate students reach their fullest potential. Go Owls!

The Graduate College joined the Giving Day celebration! 💙🦉 Our Events Coordinator, Myrta Leconte, joined President Hasner, first lady, Jillian Hasner and our favorite Owl to celebrate a day dedicated to supporting Florida Atlantic students and the programs that help them succeed.

Every gift makes a difference.