Stephanie Young

Tell us something that your students might find interesting about you.

I am obsessed with squirrels.

What is one book you think everyone should read?

1984 by George Orwell

Why did you start teaching?

When I was a kid, I wanted to be in school forever. I love learning and asking questions. I realized that teaching is a way to continue to be a lifelong learner. Teaching combines my love of education with my passion for supporting students on their own educational path.

In your own words, what is the value of this degree to a student?

The value of our degree lies in its balance of theory and practice. Students gain a strong foundation in communication principles while also developing practical, real-world skills. Whether graduates plan to teach at the high school or college level, work in training and development or lead communication efforts within organizations, this program equips them with transferable skills to become effective and adaptable professionals.

What advice would you give to those considering this online program?

My advice to prospective students is to approach the MASOC program with a clear sense of purpose and an openness to applying what they learn in real-world contexts. This degree is especially valuable for individuals who are interested in teaching, training or leading learning initiatives within educational, organizational or professional settings. Because the program is online, students should be prepared to be self‑directed while also engaging actively with peers and instructors to make the most of the collaborative learning environment.

What would you like students to take away from your classes?

I want students to leave my courses with a strong sense of confidence and competence in their ability to teach communication effectively in a variety of educational settings. My goal is for students to understand not only what to teach in communication courses, but how and why particular instructional choices matter for student learning and engagement.

What types of projects can your students expect in these courses?

Students engage in applied, practice-oriented projects designed to prepare them to teach communication courses at the high school and college levels. Projects include instructional lesson planning, syllabus and assignment design, teaching demonstration and critical reflections on instructional communication practices. Students analyze teaching case studies, design learning activities and assessments and engage in peer feedback to refine their instructional skills across diverse educational contexts.

In which online courses/classes do you teach?

COMM 607: Applied Practices in Instructional Communication

COMM 670: Special Topics in Instructional Communication

In which online program(s) do you teach?

Master of Arts in Strategic and Organizational Communication