Tyler Bacote is a doctoral student in the Educational Studies with a concentration in Higher Education program. The Columbia, S.C., native expects to graduate in 2027.
Why Did you Choose UNCG?
UNCG is unique in that it is only one of two universities in North Carolina that offer a doctoral program in Higher Education. The Educational Studies program with concentration in Higher Education has faculty members that are deeply passionate about social justice and institutional reform. After interviewing with the faculty members during the admissions process, it was clear that they could offer the support, structure, and expertise I was looking for in a doctoral program. Also, I absolutely love the city of Greensboro!
What is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is the classroom. That is where the magic happens!
What activities and organizations are you involved in on campus?
Aside from being a full time doctoral student, I am a Graduate Research Assistant in the Collaborative for Black Men’s Success (CBMS) under the leadership of Dr. Jesse Ford. This collaborative focuses on programming, outreach, teaching and research oriented around the experience of Black students navigating higher education. I also am the primary instructors for Black Women’s Leadership and Development, as well as MAC Foundation course Changing the World through Education.
What experience at UNCG has had the most significant impact on you?
The most impactful experience for me at UNCG has the been the opportunity to build, design and teach Black Women’s Leadership and Development from scratch as a first-year doctoral student. Dr. Jesse Ford, my advisor, trusted me with this responsibility very early in my doctoral career and it had a profound impact on me as a student and emerging academic. This course made me fall in love with teaching and developing future leaders. I was able to connect, build meaningful relationships with students and truly understand what it means to be responsible for stewarding the minds of the next generation.
What has been your favorite class and why?
My favorite courses at UNCG have been the Scholarly Writing Courses provided over the summer for doctoral students in my program. This summer, I took Scholarly Writing in a Gendered and Racialized Academy taught by Dr. Delma Ramos and I thoroughly enjoyed the format of the course. Although the course was intense, it was deeply rewarding as we were able to hone in on topics that we were passionate about within higher education. The format of the course allowed for deep discussion and focused writing – which I greatly benefited from.
What are your career goals?
After graduating from my program, I would like to become tenure-track professor and emerging thought leader in the field of higher education. I would love to also provide educational consultation for both public and private universities, as well as for the Department of Education.
What made you want to choose a career in This Field?
I am deeply passionate about education and the infinite possibilities that it provides for our future! I care about the health and sustainment of public institutions of learning (e.g, public universities, museums, community colleges) and how they strengthen our democracy.
What advice would you give a student considering UNCG and the School of Education?
Wherever your interests may lie – there is a place, person, or organization for you at UNCG! Take the time to discover your interests and find your community. And if there isn’t one, then create one!
If you are a School of Education student who would like to participate in our Spartan Voices series, please complete this form.
