About the Guest:

On today's episode, Dr. Kellie Alston, an esteemed eLearning strategist with extensive experience in online teaching, warmly hosts Ms. Thomasina Tafur, a multifaceted professional and a current PhD student at Pepperdine University. Thomasina's academic journey includes an undergraduate degree in English Literature and an MBA in International Business. She boasts a substantial 20-year career at FedEx, developing robust leadership skills, and has had the unique experience of teaching at Princess Nora University in Saudi Arabia. Currently, she's delving into the world of equity and options trading and is investigating the barriers to women's participation in key Wall Street roles through her doctoral dissertation.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of the "Dear Professor series," Dr. Kellie Alston engages with Thomasina Tafur to dissect her educational trajectory and the experiences shaping her current academic pursuits. Their conversation also focuses on Thomasina's intriguing online learning experiences spanning from literature to trading to international teaching, as well as her ambitious doctoral research. Thomasina Tafur offers invaluable insights into her online learning experiences, including the development of relationships with peers and professors, and the challenges she's overcome in adapting to various online educational technologies.

Key Takeaways:

• Online learning environments benefit greatly from structured discussions and facilitation to accommodate different learning styles.
• Personal connections and networking are invaluable takeaways from higher education experiences, extending beyond the classroom.
• The pursuit of a PhD requires more than ambition; a genuine passion for the topic and practical application post-graduation are critical.
• Navigating the transition from on-site to online educational experiences poses a unique set of challenges, necessitating adaptability and patience from both students and instructors.
• Female representation and participation in the financial sector remain significantly limited, with cultural and structural barriers being key areas of concern.

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Website: kelliealston.com

Email: hello@kelliealston.com

Music Credit: Maskros by Bowmull https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ZdbTFzb4Ne/

Resource: https://bit.ly/drkelliealston

Are you interested in enhancing your mindfulness this semester? Incorporate journaling specifically about your work experience in higher ed. Grab your FREE copy of The Professor's Week in Review: A Journal for Weekly Reflections on the Higher Ed Experience from now until May 31st by simply emailing Dr. Alston at hello@kelliealston.com. Get ready to make it a mindful semester!