Networking Beyond Boundaries: How Technology Expands Your Professional Connections
In today's digital landscape, remote learning presents unique challenges and unprecedented opportunities for professional networking. For Sheela VanHoose, MEd '24 online candidate in Education Policy and Leadership (EPL), technology has become the ultimate connector, transforming how she engages, learns, and grows professionally.
A Career Driven by Passion and Purpose
VanHoose isn't just another education policy professional – she's a dynamic leader who leads the education practice at The Southern Group, a prominent lobbying firm. Her work spans critical areas like appropriations, instructional materials, and computer science education. "I never stop talking about education policy," she says with a laugh that hints at her deep commitment to the field.
Her decision to pursue a Master's in Education Policy and Leadership (EPL) wasn't casual. VanHoose sought to formalize her extensive professional experience, diving deeper into historical contexts, equity considerations, and the intricate landscape of educational policy across different states.
Why Choose a Specialized Degree?
VanHoose's choice of American University was very intentional. In her own words, "There aren't a ton of these degrees out there!" She recognized a critical gap in professional education: while teaching degrees are abundant, specialized policy programs are rare.
It's a shame when you think about all of the policies at the local, state, and federal level – there's no training ground for people who are policymakers or influencing policies.
The EPL program offered something unique: targeted training in policymaking, stakeholder engagement, and data analysis. For VanHoose, this meant honing critical thinking skills, learning to evaluate research validity, and understanding the nuanced world of education policy.
Networking in the Digital Age: A Strategic Approach
When COVID-19 disrupted traditional networking models, VanHoose didn't just adapt – she revolutionized her approach to professional connections. Her networking strategy is both intentional and innovative.
I love to read an article, or learn about a company that's being talked about, and then reach out to people in the company to make personal contact.
Her toolkit for digital networking includes:
- Systematically adding conference contacts on LinkedIn
- Engaging with the School of Education's EPL alumni LinkedIn group
- Initiating virtual coffee meetings with professionals across the country
The results? Overwhelmingly positive. She's connected with alumni working in diverse sectors – from think tanks to policy implementation roles – gaining insights that extend far beyond traditional networking.
Learning Beyond the Classroom Walls
One of VanHoose's most profound experiences came during Adjunct Instructor David Murray's Education and Public Policy course. Each week, students presented current events and legislation, creating a dynamic learning environment.
A standout moment came when discussing a Florida bill proposing to remove technology from classrooms. What seemed like a straightforward policy discussion transformed into a nuanced exploration of educational access.
I understood the impact of the proposed legislation but used the discussion format in class to learn from my classmates’ experiences and backgrounds. We have educators, administrators, and guidance counselors in our program. One classmate highlighted the impact this legislation could have on students with unique abilities and the need for adaptive devices- this is an example where I thought I knew every angle but realized I just didn't.
This experience crystallized her belief in the importance of diverse networks and perspectives in policy discussions.
Building Community in a Remote World
Networking for VanHoose isn't just about professional connections – it's about building genuine relationships. Her cohort has become more than classmates; they're close friends who have literally crossed state lines to spend time together.
Some of my classmates and new best friends flew to Tallahassee and we spent a week together. I had never met them outside of our virtual classroom, but I invited them into my household.
Her advice for students? "Make friends with your cohorts!" She emphasizes that these relationships aren't just social – they're opportunities for collaborative learning, shared projects, and mutual support.
Pro Tips for Effective Remote Networking
- Be Proactive: Don't wait for connections to happen – create them
- Leverage Technology: Use platforms like LinkedIn strategically
- Stay Curious: Ask questions, seek diverse perspectives
- Maintain Relationships: Regular communication is key
- Be Genuine: Authenticity trumps formal networking tactics
Your Network, Your Opportunity
VanHoose shows that remote learning doesn't equal isolation. With the right approach, technology becomes a powerful tool for expanding your professional horizons, gaining unique insights, and building meaningful connections.
If you are ready to network beyond boundaries, or attend in-person or hybrid, check out the American University School of Education’s Master of Education Policy and Leadership degree.