Juana Reina has served as a school administrator and an expert in opportunity programs as a charter member of the Tri-State Consortium of Opportunity Programs. Currently, Juana Reina is pursuing an EdD in higher education administration at Northeastern University.Headquartered in Boston, Northeastern University is a private research institution of higher education that was founded in 1898. The university, which currently has a student population of more than 25,000, offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including the doctor of education.Northeastern University’s doctor of education (EdD) program provides experienced professionals with the knowledge to lead and empower their communities. Accredited by the NEASC, the program takes three to four years and requires the completion of several foundation courses. These include an introductory course in doctoral studies as well as a course titled “Changing Conceptions of Learning and Human Development: Research and Practice.” In addition, students must complete “Transforming Human Systems” and “Leadership Theory and Research.”
Juana Reina, an evaluator for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, has held leadership positions in the student affairs departments of numerous higher education institutions. A graduate student in education at Northeastern University, Juana Reina is doing her dissertation on how students mold their professional identities through co-curricular activities. Co-curricular programs contain activities, such as art, music, or sports, that complement the academic curriculum. Participating in these activities presents several benefits:1. Develops time management skills. Participation in co-curricular activities requires students to learn to manage their time and prioritize competing commitments. 2. Builds self-esteem. Students who do not excel academically may find that the more relaxed setting of co-curricular programs removes the pressure to succeed and helps them succeed in other ways. 3. Fosters long-term commitment. Co-curricular programs require students to make a long-term commitment to attend meetings and participate in program activities. This can also enhance a student’s ability to make commitments in other areas of life, such as school tasks. 4. Improves academic performance. Co-curricular programs complement the learning experience and help students build the skills necessary to succeed in school and beyond, such as time management, commitment, and leadership. They can also increase a student’s interest in school and inspire better academic performance.
