For Sydney Scheller ’24, Asbury University’s Master of Arts in Communication provided the academic foundation, faculty mentorship, and practical experience needed to pursue a career in teaching and research.
After earning both her bachelor’s degree in Communication and her Master of Arts in Communication from Asbury, Scheller continued her academic journey at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas.
Scheller currently serves as a graduate instructor at Texas Tech while pursuing her Ph.D., which she expects to complete in May 2027. Following graduation, she hopes to secure either a postdoctoral fellowship or a tenure-track teaching position.
Her experiences at Asbury, including completing a master’s thesis, serving as a graduate assistant, and helping transition the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter to new leadership, helped strengthen her passion for teaching, research, and mentoring college students.
We asked Sydney to reflect on her graduate experience at Asbury.
“My professors in our graduate program thoroughly prepared me for classroom teaching and researching at an R1 research college. Dr. Jim Shores chaired my master’s thesis, and through his and Dr. Todd Wold’s mentorship, I knew I could make the leap into academia without any trouble. The opportunity to complete a graduate assistantship and help our PRSSA transition to new leadership during my time in our graduate school also really reinforced my love for college students, teaching, and researching! So getting a Ph.D. afterward was a no-brainer.”
“Engage with our professors! Anyone in our department would be so happy to sit down and discuss the program and what questions you might be wrestling with. Also, reach out to alumni. One thing that will always be true is that Asbury alums love Asburians – past and future! I or any of our recent grads would gladly welcome an email or phone call to talk about the benefits of graduate programs at Asbury to help you make the best decision you can for your future.”
Scheller’s experience demonstrates how Asbury Graduate Studies prepares students for advanced academic opportunities through personalized faculty mentorship, research experience, and practical leadership opportunities. Her journey from Asbury graduate student to doctoral candidate and graduate instructor reflects the lasting impact of an education that encourages students to grow as scholars, educators, and leaders.
Ready to take the next step? Explore Asbury University’s graduate programs and discover how you can build on your experience and prepare for what’s next.
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