TJ Duntz
MAT Academic Services Coordinator
I earned my bachelor’s degree from K-State to be a math teacher and taught math for eight years in Junction City, Kansa,s and Kansas City, Kansas. While teaching, I got my master’s degree in academic advising and accepted a position at K-State as an academic advisor for the College of Education. I stayed in that position for three or four years before transitioning to my current role of supporting MAT students.
What is your role in the MAT program: My role as the academic services coordinator is essentially just a fancy title for an academic or student success advisor. I meet with many prospective students and share information about the program and how it might fit their life and goals. Then, once they’re admitted, I meet with them via Zoom or in my office (for local students) to map out an individualized plan of action. We discuss their timeline, how they can pursue their teaching license and what their program will look like from start to finish. This really helps our students understand that they are supported as individuals.
As students near the end of the program, I help with the licensing they will receive. My role is truly to support our students from beginning to end and to be the person they can reach out to if they have any questions or concerns during their time in the MAT program.
What drew you to education and what keeps you passionate about it today: Not only does K-State run in my family, but education does too. I am a third-generation teacher. I grew up around educators and got to see the value they bring to the classroom every day and the interactions they have with students. My favorite part about my job is the interactions that I get to have with so many different people. This is an online program, and there are hundreds of students enrolled. I get to meet with all of them. I get to meet with students fresh out of college, midlife adults who have families at home and retirees who have so many experiences to share. It inspires me to see their backgrounds and hear what draws them toward teaching.
What is one piece of advice you would give to incoming MAT students: My advice is to stay in communication. The program has many supports built in at every level. If you have questions, confusion or are struggling with anything, reach out to someone in the program so we can support you. I’ve seen countless examples of the faculty in our program being supportive in every way possible. We’re here to support you, and we can help you navigate your pathway.
What are two words or phrases you use to describe the MAT program: The two words I would use to describe the MAT program are timely and supportive. Everyone’s on the same page, and we can provide timely advice and communication to all of our students. We are supportive in that we meet every student where they are. Students go through so many different situations, and we navigate each individually.