In celebration of Women’s History Month, the College of Education at TCU is highlighting female graduate students in the Science Education program. Morgan Jansing, a science education doctoral student, talks about her journey to TCU and obstacles she’s overcome along the way.   

What is your background and what brought you to TCU?

I have a background in environmental education with non-profits and at the state government level. I am also a former Montessori teacher. I received my Master's degree from TCU in 2009 and had always hoped to continue on with a Ph.D. someday. I have been fortunate to have been able to stay local to Fort Worth and make that dream a reality. 

What’s your favorite thing about your program at TCU? 

I am so thankful for the high-caliber faculty and fellow students in my program. There is a mutual sense of drive and encouragement that is a common thread from nearly everyone I have worked with in my program. These relationships have significantly contributed to my personal growth as a student, a researcher and as a colleague. 

What are some obstacles you’ve faced along your career path so far? How did you overcome them?

An obstacle I have experienced recently is the outsider's perception of my recent return to school as a full-time student. I have received a wide variety of responses, and while most of them have been encouraging, I have been surprised by the ones that were not. I always reply with confidence and remind myself that my path is not for everyone. I hope that my confidence in my decision to return to school will inspire other people (both male and female) to follow their passions and possibly pursue a career in science!

What’s the best part about being a Horned Frog?

I love how Fort Worth embraces TCU and vice versa. I grew up in Fort Worth and no matter how big the city or the University get, I always feel a strong-knit community from them both.