jmcomicÂþ»­

I attended National Louis University (NLU) to pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Secondary Education. My time in the program began with a sense of excitement and purpose — I was eager to become an educator and contribute meaningfully to the next generation. The coursework and preparation provided by NLU were well-structured and aligned with the realities of classroom teaching. My instructors were knowledgeable, supportive, and dedicated to helping future teachers succeed.

During my student... Read More teaching assignment at Elgin High School in U-46, however, I encountered a serious and deeply distressing situation. A student made a social media post about me that referenced my sex-positive beliefs, which ultimately led to my removal from the placement. While NLU initially expressed support and stated that they were on my side, their actions fell short when it came to protecting my academic standing and professional reputation. I was informed by multiple attorneys that the university should have advocated for me directly with the district, yet NLU chose not to challenge the decision.

As a result, I was forced to withdraw from the program despite having successfully completed all academic requirements up to that point. The experience left me feeling abandoned at a time when I most needed institutional support. I had expected a university that promotes inclusivity, diversity, and student advocacy to stand by its principles — particularly in a case involving discrimination and professional integrity.

While I still recognize the strength of NLU’s academic instruction and the compassion of many individual faculty members, my overall experience was overshadowed by the lack of institutional courage to defend one of its own students. My hope is that National Louis University learns from this and strengthens its commitment to equity and advocacy, ensuring that no future student faces similar injustice without meaningful institutional support.

The pro is the program is a fast track process to get licensure and certifications in education. The masters is extremely obtainable and the professors are knowledgeable and approachable. Many are involved in the Chicago area professional networks or superintendents of schools. I have enjoyed every one of my classes thus far. Like any college, it is expensive and the classes are not the most convenient for my current schedule. They are all evening and most of my work occurs in the evening. Other... Read More than that, I know if I want my life schedule to change, this is the right school and right path for me to take. I will walk away from my experience prepared and ready to be a successful teacher.