Middlebury Institute graduates discuss where they are working today, how the Institute helped them get there, and what advice they’d give to current and future students.
My name is Tom English, and I graduated with an MA in TESOL from the Middlebury Institute in 2024. Prior to attending the Institute, I earned my undergraduate degree at Montana State University, and I’ve studied French, Spanish, and Chinese.
I am currently based in Hefei, China, where I work as an academic writing instructor at Stony Brook Institute at Anhui University. I help university students who are preparing to study abroad in the U.S. to master the conventions of North American academic essays. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is hearing from former students who reach out while studying abroad to tell me how useful my class was. Knowing that I’ve played a role in their success is incredibly rewarding.
This semester, my students worked on a solutions-based research paper in MLA format. The project involved conducting research, creating an annotated bibliography, and writing an academic paper. These assignments help students develop critical thinking and writing skills essential for success in their academic pursuits abroad.
Tom English shares his experience of the online degree.
Feeling like I was able to help in any way is always the best part of my job.
I held my current position before beginning my studies at the Middlebury Institute. The skills and knowledge I gained through the online TESOL master’s degree have since enhanced my approach to teaching academic writing, making me a more effective instructor.
One of the most valuable lessons I learned during my time at the Institute was the importance of reaching out to faculty. My professors were incredibly supportive and always willing to help whenever I had questions. I encourage current students to take advantage of this resource—your professors want to see you succeed!
My best advice for current students is to foster connections, be proactive in seeking guidance, and take full advantage of the Middlebury Institute’s network of faculty and alumni. These relationships can open doors and provide invaluable support throughout your career.
| by Jill Neuendorf and TFL ’01
Alum Jill Neuendorf shares how her passion for Russian and second language acquisition led her to a career in academia and teaching Russian at Georgetown University.
Alum Joyce Kling shares how her education at the Middlebury Institute laid the foundation for her career in academia and how she continues to mentor students and collaborate on international research projects at Lund University.
| by Jennifer Uhler MATESOL ’05
Alum Jennifer Uhler shares how her MIIS education and experiences with Peace Corps, Fulbright, and the English Language Fellow program led her to a diplomatic career focused on fostering global ties through language education.
