Lauren Love: NCCU’s Rising Star in Educational Technology

With North Carolina Central University's (NCCU) fall 2024 graduation fast approaching, Lauren Love is preparing to leave the 'Nest' equipped with an advanced degree in educational technology, combining her love for teaching with the latest in digital tools to create dynamic learning experiences.

Love's interest in educational technology first sparked during her high school years amid the COVID-19 pandemic, when she witnessed technology's powerful role in connecting students and educators.

"I saw how crucial it was to bring technology into the classroom," she said. "Students were using social platforms like TikTok and Instagram to stay engaged, and I wanted to make learning just as accessible and relevant."

At NCCU, Love's professor Malimi Kazi, Ed.D., encouraged her to explore the field of educational technology, which she saw as a bridge between traditional teaching methods and the digital world. She quickly dove into the program, finding its mix of academic rigor and real-world application a perfect fit for her goals.

However, balancing her graduate studies with a demanding schedule - including a graduate assistantship and an internship - was challenging.

"It was tough, but I learned to prioritize and stay organized," she said. "I also communicated with my professors and sought help when needed. They were incredibly supportive, especially during busy times."

One of the highlights of her coursework was studying Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its applications in education.

"AI is becoming an essential tool, and educators need to help students use it responsibly," she noted. "It's about teaching them to harness technology while still thinking critically."

Love's experience extends beyond the classroom. An internship in instructional design at global biotechnology company Biogen introduced her to the corporate world, where she adapted her skills for a different audience.

"Transitioning to a corporate environment was eye-opening," she said. "Leading projects and presenting to executives built my confidence and showed me the broader possibilities in my field."

Love acknowledges that navigating corporate spaces presented unique challenges as a young Black woman.

"There were moments when I felt I had to prove myself to be taken seriously," she said. "But it also helped me build resilience and stay focused on my goals."

Love advises other students juggling similar commitments to "take your time, communicate openly, and don't be afraid to ask for help. And remember to rest-you don't have to do everything all the time."

Looking ahead, she is excited about the possibilities in educational technology.

"The field is so flexible," she said. "Whether it's in a classroom, higher education, or corporate training, NCCU has given me the tools to explore it all."