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Human Ecology: Featured Students
Shannon Phillips Johnston - Family and Child Studies
Family Science Concentration
About Me
Hello there, my name is Shannon Phillips Johnston. I am from Rowlett, TX, a suburb of Dallas. My family of origin has enabled me to become the person I am, starting with my parents Norm and Jeri along with the fun loving relationships I have with my brother Nick and sister Andrea. In addition I will be getting married this March to an amazing man Brett Johnston, who comes from a great family as well. I am well on my way to earning my degree in Family and Child Studies concentration in Family Science, and look forward to graduating Spring 2007.
Why Tech?
Originally I choose Tech as a means to continue my volleyball career at the collegiate level and as a result I stumble into an academic world that couldn’t be more well suited for me. Being a Division 1 athlete has allowed me to appreciate the gift of academics more than I otherwise could have. I came to Tech knowing that I wanted to play the game of volleyball and through the game I have learned skills that have empower me to win at the most important game of all, life.
I thought I wanted to teach Special Education, but as a result of course conflicts I ventured over to the world of Family and Child Studies. I was excepted with open arms into the Human Ecology community, and into a major more fulfilling than any of the other waters I had tested. The learning environment is conducive to sharing; there is an open dialog between students and professors both in and out of the classroom. The course work draws me in and makes me want to learn more. Family Science is fascinating, from the study of interpersonal relationships to contemporary family issues.
I have been involved is several groups and organizations throughout my undergraduate career including: NCAA Generations of Choices, Student Athlete Advisory Committee, WAC Student Advisory Committee, WAC Sportsmanship Committee, Louisiana Tech Council on Family Relations, and Kappa Omicron Nu. The organizations are out there to put you in touch with great people and build lasting relationships.
After graduation, I have plans to attend graduate school for Marriage and Family Therapy. I may first try and continue my athletic career while I can still physically compete on an elite level. This would allow Brett and I to see the world, which would later allow me to have an even broader perspective to draw from when I am helping families. If I do not pursue therapy as my professional career I will undoubtedly be active in some realm of family professionals. Families are my passion and one of the most unique areas of life to study; I will do my best to enrich and empower them one life at a time.
Mentors
The staff in the Family and Child Studies department are who provide the unbelievable foundation for growth that every student experiences. The genuine dedication these professors show to their students, makes learning a rewarding experience. I have a tremendous amount of respect for all of them. From Dr. Harpel, who is been my academic advisor and the professor for one of my favorite classes Adolescent Development to Dr. Dowd who has a gift for engaging the minds of those in his classes room. Dr. Dowd lectures as though he is advocating for the issue he is discussing and presents the counterpart with equal conviction; he has challenged me to think critically and develop my own stance. As a result I am more confident about the knowledge I have of families. I am grateful for these professors, they have molded me and allowed me to mold myself. I can and I will make a difference in families!
Misti Thomas
Family & Consumer Sciences - MS
About Me
My name is Misti Thomas, and I live in Monroe, LA. I am 26 years old. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. I am a single mom of a three year old. I love spending time with my son. I enjoy spending time with my family, as well as the families I serve.
I am a full time employee at Volunteers of America Twin Cities Early Head Start. I began working at the agency as an Infant/Toddler teacher in May 2005. In November 2006, I began working as the Family Services Specialist. One of my roles at Volunteers of America Twin Cities Early Head Start is to oversee the eligibility, recruitment, selection, enrollment, and attendance of the Early Head Start program. As the Family Services Specialist, my job is to ensure Early Head Start staff forms family partnerships with parents. Another role I have is to provide parent involvement opportunities to all participating families. I also ensure transitions, into and out of the program, and individualized, educational, and supportive services for families. I also help to provide families with community resources to meet their needs.
Why Tech?
Obtaining a Master’s degree in Family and Consumer Sciences at Louisiana Tech will be very beneficial for my career as the Family Services Specialist. The educational information I have gathered from my classes has allowed me to have a more comprehensive understanding of families. Learning about current issues impacting families today gives me an insight on how I can be of better service to at-risk families. Studying at a Master’s level has not only increased my knowledge as a student, but this level has given me the practice and confidence to share the information with other professionals and with the families I serve.
Mentors
The journey of receiving a Master’s degree has been supported and encouraged by the Family and Consumer Science professors. The professors have been mentors to me from the beginning of my studies in the program. I have learned information regarding children and families through literature, discussions, and presentations. The mixed style of teaching has modeled for me ways I can be effective as a specialist in the Volunteers of America Twin Cities Early Head Start program.
Sarah Kerr
Merchandising and Consumer Studies
About Me
I was born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana, where I graduated from Captain Shreve High School in 2004. After high school I came to Louisiana Tech and it took me a little while to find out where I belong, but I soon found my home in Merchandising. Since I have been at Tech I have been involved in Kappa Delta Sorority, First Vice President of Panhellenic Council, President of Order of Omega, Kappa Omicron Nu, and I currently serve as Vice President of the International Textile and Apparel Association. I plan to graduate in May of 2008 and find a job in the buying field.
Why Tech?
I came to visit Tech as a junior in high school for “Time Out for Tech” and I immediately felt at home. As I came back to visit during my senior year I knew that Louisiana Tech was the place for me. With its caring teachers and friendly environment I felt as if I would be able to find a family of friends and a home away from home here. Since I have been here I have met some of my best friends and faculty that I will never forget.
Mentors
When choosing a mentor I have some difficulty, because my MCS teachers have all inspired me in some way or another. Mrs. Lori Myers, has been so helpful to me for the past three years. She is the best advisor I could ask for and is always there when I just want to make sure every little detail is right with my schedule. Dr. Linda Sivils has shown me how to be organized and prepared for anything. I know she recognizes my voice as soon as I call just to make sure I understood every instruction of the design assignment. Mrs. Aimee Rambin has inspired me to not “sweat the small stuff”. When I am having a stressful day I know I can always count on her to make me laugh, and how could any merchandising student forget Mrs. Kathleen Heiden? She has probably had the most influence on me. Mrs. Heiden has not only taught me to sew and how to figure out buying formulas, but she has always been there for me any time of the day whether I am concerned with MCS business or I am just having a bad day. She is one of the most caring and loving teachers I have ever had. I would not be as inspired to succeed in this career path without the guidance she has given me. Mrs. Heiden is one of the most talented individuals I have ever met and I truly appreciate everything she has done for me these last couple of years.
Melinda Remy
Merchandising and Consumer Studies
About Me
Hello, my name is Melinda Remy. I am a senior Merchandising and Consumer Studies major from Farmerville, LA. I am concentrated in Consumer Studies and will graduate May 2008. My parents are John and Carol Remy. My dad is the sales tax collector for the Union Parish School Board, and my mom is the 4-H agent in Union Parish. I have an older sister, Laura, who is teaching 1st grade in Ascension Parish.
Why Tech?
I always thought I wanted to go to college far away from home, but as graduation approached I realized that my family was very important to me. Both my mom and dad are Tech alumni and were thrilled to learn that I had chosen their alma mater. It didn’t take me long to realize I had made the right decision. I have grown to love Louisiana Tech and the people of Ruston. I have been active in numerous student organizations throughout the past four years: Louisiana Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (president), Temple Tech, and Kappa Omicron Nu.
Samantha Sheehan
Merchandising and Consumer Studies
About Me
I am Samantha Sheehan and am from Ruston, Louisiana. I'm a senior Merchandising and Consumer Studies major with a concentration in Merchandising. I have three older sisters who are my best friends, two wonderful parents, and five precious nieces and nephews! I feel so blessed to have such a great family and friends and my boyfriend of three years, Brad. I currently work at The Fashion and absolutely love my job, and I also have a beautiful Golden Retriever, Brady. My favorite things to do are running, shopping, eating, playing with my nieces and nephews, and being involved with my sorority, Sigma Kappa.
Why Tech?
Coming to Tech was a very easy decision. My three sisters graduated from Tech and my mom is a professor here. I remember going to orientation and getting to hear about Merchandising, and from that day I knew it would be perfect for me. My time at Tech has been great and I have grown so much as a person and feel confident looking towards my future. My merchandising classes and trips have been unforgettable and the friendships made will last a lifetime.
Mentors
It's really hard to name just one mentor. I can honestly say every one of my Merchandising teachers has impacted me in many ways. Each woman has been so kind and helpful, and pretty fun, too! They are great ladies who are always there to answer questions, give adivice, and make classes interesting. Through my Merchandising and Consumer classes at Tech, I know I am fully prepared for a great career ahead of me and I owe it to Mrs. Myers, Mrs. Heiden, Mrs. Rambin, and Dr. Sivils.
Crystal Hays
Nutrition and Dietetics - MS
About Me
My name is Crystal Hays; I am from West Monroe, Louisiana. I live there with my awesome roommate in a cute little condominium. I have a strong faith in God and His leading has guided me over the years.
I graduated from Louisiana Tech in May 2006 and finished the dietetic internship in May 2007. I am now a Registered Dietitian, working at St. Francis Medical Center in Monroe. I am also currently finishing my Master’s degree in Nutrition here at Tech and working as a graduate assistant. My future goals include specializing in sports nutrition and eating disorders. In the near future, I plan to be working with girls who struggle with eating disorders and other life controlling addictions. I will be the food and fitness director at a Christ based residential home called Mercy Ministries of America. Mercy has homes throughout the United States and Overseas. It will be an honor to be a part of such a life-changing program and to be able to help girls find the path to freedom, life, health and truth.
Why Tech?
I chose Tech because the college that I was attending my first year did not have a Nutrition and Dietetics program. I originally went to ULM in order to play softball. I researched Tech and the nutrition program and heard great things about it. Tech was also close by and made the choice an easy one. When I transferred to Tech, I began competing on the powerlifting team. That was a great experience during my journey here at Tech. I have definitely made the right choice and have loved every minute of my time here. I have learned so many life-changing things during my college years and I have loved every minute of it!
Mentors
My professors were amazing and they were always willing to go the extra mile and guide me along the way. The dietetic internship was also great and the program would not be the same without the director, Dawn Erickson. The choice to attend Tech has been one of the best choices in my life and I would not change it for anything.
Quote
“What lies behind us and what lies before us, is nothing compared to what lies within us.”
Melissa Vujovich
Nutrition and Dietetics
About Me
I am from Melbourne, Australia. I originally came to Louisiana after receiving a collegiate tennis scholarship from ULM. After completing a Bachelors degree in Exercise Science, I decided to pursue another degree in Nutrition and Dietetics. I am a senior currently enrolled in undergraduate studies. Beginning winter quarter 2008, I will be enrolled in master’s studies and will graduate from undergraduate studies in May 2008.
In regards to my family, my father is successful in the construction industry, and my mom is a one of a kind stay at home mom. I have an older sister, who has her doctorate degree in psychology and is currently a practicing child and family psychologist. I also have a younger brother who is a year away from earning a business degree.
Why Tech?
I chose to study at Tech due to the great reputation of the Nutrition and Dietetics program. During my course of study I have had the privilege of learning from some highly accomplished women and dietitians for whom I have the utmost respect. Each of them tries to bring out the best in every student.
The quarter system, coupled with an academically challenging course of study has been trying at times, however, if the achievements of those who teach us reflects upon me and my fellow students, then our future is bright.
Quote
To get what we’ve never had, we must do what we’ve never done.
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