Joan Miller

Georganne Watson headshot

Pennsylvania has always been my home. I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, attended The Pennsylvania State University as an undergraduate, and lived and worked in Bucks County for thirty years. When my husband and I decided to relocate to State College again after our nest emptied, it provided the perfect opportunity for me to launch a new career. Leaving behind many rewarding years in the Central Bucks School District was a bittersweet transition, yet I relish the opportunity to work in higher education at my alma mater. Course work during a sabbatical from teaching led me to an internship with FTCAP in DUS, and there was no turning back. I applied to the M. Ed. College Student Affairs program, and my acceptance eventually led to my graduate assistantship with DUS.

I look forward to teaching about the curriculum of Penn State and helping students learn both how to explore the various majors housed here and how to find the perfect fit for their interests and abilities. Nothing seems more rewarding than helping a student find a pathway to learning that will inspire passion and possibilities for his or her future.

While working with DUS and taking graduate classes occupy a good bit of my time, I do like to have fun, too! I am an avid sports enthusiast, and Penn State football is forever in my heart! I love tailgating with company and attending as many games, both home and away, as I can. I also enjoy biking, spending time with friends and family (including my dog), and traveling. I especially enjoy visiting islands with warm sun and beautiful beaches and also San Francisco and Tampa, where my sons reside.

Education

  • B.S. in Education of Exceptional Children, The Pennsylvania State University
  • B.S. in Elementary Education, The Pennsylvania State University
  • Letter of Equivalency for Master's Degree (MEQ), Pennsylvania Department of Education

Current Position

Graduate Assistant, Division of Undergraduate Studies

Research & Teaching Interests

Advising exploratory students and international students; analyzing educational decision making

Contact Information

E-mail: jxm1063@psu.edu
Office: 103 Grange Building
Phone: 814-865-7576
Fax: 814-863-8913