What was the most rewarding part of your PhD journey?
I found earning a PhD in Geography Education to be incredibly rewarding. Geography is a dynamic field that connects critical global issues, practical skills, and interdisciplinary knowledge, which makes it essential in today's world. If meaningful change is to happen in our education system, it must begin with geography. This discipline can empower students to participate fully in the global society as informed citizens, as well as prepare them for diverse careers.
Skylar Slaughter Murphy
Spring 2025 Graduate
The most rewarding part of my PhD journey was the intellectual interaction with faculty & fellow graduate students. Although […] online, there are multiple opportunities to learn from others’ perspectives. E.g., many classes have group discussion boards, & my advisor scheduled zoom meetings […] to discuss research & practice presentations. In addition, there have been summer Leadership Academy sessions […] to meet in person, network, & expand our resources for learning & teaching in geography.
Lisa Elikan
Spring 2025 Graduate
"The most rewarding part was knowing that my research has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to geography education. From the very beginning, I wanted my work to extend beyond my dissertation and support teachers, students, and curriculum development in meaningful ways. Equally rewarding was the unfailing support I received from the faculty and staff in the Department of Geography at TXST. Throughout my journey, I always felt encouraged, challenged, and supported. Their belief in me made a lasting impact and reminded me that earning a Ph.D. is never a journey you take alone." - Heather (Palma) Jones, Summer 2026 Graduate
Being part of the community at the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Texas State. It is hard to overstate the value of the faculty, staff, and your cohort.
Brendan Vander Weil
Spring 2026 Graduate
“Beyond earning a PhD and the feeling of empowerment (and badassery) that comes with earning such a pinnacle of education the most rewarding part was really knowing that I am contributing to making the world better. My research, in some way, big or small, is hopefully advancing understanding of the field and encouraging and inspiring others. Long after I am gone, this research is still there. The program also stretched me intellectually and as a writer and researcher, taking me out of my comfort zone and helping me grow. Finally, I found the friendships and connections I made along the way to be invaluable. ” - Licia Paulus, Fall 2025 Graduate
Aside from taking challenging coursework with very experienced and dedicated professors within the field of geography education, I enjoyed the opportunities to collaborate with my fellow peers on synchronous Zoom calls and when Texas State hosted their geography summits.
