Graduate Student Testimonials

Real Experiences, Real Success

There’s no better way to learn about your program of interest than directly from recent graduates themselves. Meet some of our alumni and hear how their experiences at Montclair helped them elevate their journey to success!

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Geena Taite: Mathematics Education PhD

When Geena Taite walks into her high school math classroom at PCTI STEM Academy in Wayne, New Jersey, she’s not just a teacher—she’s a trailblazer. A newly minted PhD in Mathematics Education from Montclair State University, Geena has reshaped how mathematics is taught in her district and beyond. Her journey is a testament to what’s possible when passion meets opportunity. Read the full story.

Shih-Chieh Chien: Environmental Science and Management PhD 

For Dr. Shih-Chieh Chien, pursuing a PhD was about turning a lifelong passion for the environment into meaningful action. Originally from Taiwan, Dr. Chien dreamed of becoming a teacher and making a difference in how we approach sustainability. Today, as an Assistant Professor of Biology at Wartburg College in Iowa, he credits Montclair State University’s PhD in Environmental Science and Management with giving him the tools to bring that dream to life. Read the full story

Matt Goodman: Teaching Middle Grades Mathematics (MA) Online

Matt Goodman didn’t always know he wanted to teach mathematics. In fact, it wasn’t until his junior year of high school, when he sat in his precalculus teacher’s classroom, that he found his calling. “She was so motivating and taught the material so well that I started to really love the subject,” he recalls. “That was when I thought, ‘Maybe this is something I could do.’” Read the full story

Tamara Ogle: Social Research and Analysis (MS)
Why Montclair’s Social Research MA Was the Perfect Fit for Tamara Ogle

Priscilla Ramos: Computer Science/Cybersecurity (Combined BS/MS)
Breaking into Fintech: Priscilla Ramos’ Path to a Cybersecurity Career

Kaitlyn Comesañas, Clinical Psychology (MA)
Kaitlyn Speaks on Enrolling with Ease

Amanda Moctezuma Barbosa, Cybersecurity (MS)
Amanda’s Path to Secure Funding to Focus on Cybersecurity Research

Kaurin Cuello, Higher Education (MA)
Kaurin Brings Engaging Recruitment Tactics from the Classroom to her Career


We want to hear from you!

Are you a graduate from a Montclair graduate program or certification program? We want to hear from you! We would love to showcase your graduate student experience in either written or video testimonial! Let us know you are interested by filling out our Graduate Student Testimonial Inquiry Form and we will connect with you to hear your story!