Class of 2025: Elizabeth Carr

When Elizabeth Carr began looking for a master’s program, motivated by a passion for empowering students, she knew she needed a flexible program that could accommodate the challenges of military life. She worried that studying online might mean missing out on a sense of community — but instead, she found just the opposite.

Through strong relationships with faculty, active participation in student organizations, and support from her family, she found not only professional growth but also meaningful connection, belonging, and purpose.

Q: What inspired you to choose a career in education?

I began my undergraduate career as an engineering major and was planning to join the Air Force. My time working in a daycare (along with my now-husband’s encouragement) led me to shift my focus toward working with children and adolescents. I chose to make a major shift in career goals with the principle that education is the great equalizer in our world. When executed with excellence, education empowers students to fulfill their limitless potential.

Q: Why did you choose the UVA School of Education & Human Development for your master’s program?

After my first three years of teaching, I wanted to continue my growth as a teacher by pursuing my master’s degree. However, as a military spouse, I moved frequently, and “home” has not always been in a location conducive to attending graduate school. Thankfully, I discovered the online program through UVA that allowed me to earn my master’s from a prestigious education program, no matter where the Navy sent us. Now that we are settled into our civilian life, UVA has continued to be an asset with the connections I have forged with faculty members and the doors it has opened professionally.

Q: What is the most significant thing that has shaped your time here?

My children played the biggest role in shaping my experience as a graduate student. My work ethic and professionalism have always been important to me, but having kids gave me an entirely different outlook on my role as a student. President Ryan wrote about life’s essential questions, one of which was, “What truly matters?” Having kids during this program re-centered my professional and personal focus on what truly matters in my life. They motivated me to make them proud, and they brought me joy despite challenging seasons.  

Q: What is one thing you learned during your studies that surprised you?

I was surprised by the number of opportunities available to get involved at UVA despite being an online student. I was able to participate in Ed Council, be a student representative on Faculty Council and CPRC, join  Omicron Kappa Delta and the Raven Society, and participate in a faculty member’s research. My time at UVA has been enriching and empowering regardless of my online status.

Q: If you can, name one person who has made a special impact during your studies and how?

Dr. Mandy Rispoli has been such a blessing during my time at UVA. I went through an existential career crisis midway through the program, and she went above and beyond in guiding me as I figured out what should come next for me professionally. She let me work with her research team and gave me the confidence to believe I could pursue a Ph.D. someday. As someone who does not live in Charlottesville, I wondered if I would still feel like a part of the community. Although I am not a part of the Academical Village on Grounds, Dr. Rispoli embodies the spirit of it and has invested in me as a whole person rather than just another student.

Q: What will you be doing next?

This fall, I will be returning to the classroom as an upper school literature teacher at a classical school. I hope to eventually work toward my Ph.D. and continue research on the topics of neurodiversity, stress, and toxic perfectionism.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I would like to thank my program director, Dr. Anne Jewett, and my advisor, Dr. Mandy Rispoli, for their support and guidance during my time here. Thank you also to Dr. Bern Poerio, who creates such a welcoming and equitable culture among students in the School of Education and Human Development, especially on Ed Council. I am grateful to all of my classmates who have challenged me through discussions and inspired me with their own stories. Lastly, I want to thank my husband and children for their encouragement, patience, and belief in me.