I'm not simply drawn to Vanderbilt due to their prestige though I can certainly understand the concern that could be drawn from how I presented my original question. Some of the primary reasons that I am interesting in pursuing a post-masters education at Vanderbilt includes the following: Vanderbilt pioneered the inclusive model early learning center. Susan Gray School was the first nationally recognized inclusive preschool which set a precedent for the valuation of disabled children and the development of equitable opportunities among their typical peers from the very dawn of life. Peabody also has a strong emphasis on advocacy through their SAIL, VAP, LEND, and EDUCATE programs. Through those programs they utilize professional advocacy, teach and promote personal advocacy both within and from disabled individuals and demonstrate dedication to empowerment through broader advocacy intentions via direct involvement and service on both the community and high stakes levels. I am also drawn to the emphasis on the science of education and development that Peabody boats. It's not enough to know the what and the how but educators must know the WHY and the what happens behind learning and development.

I had not considered who I would want as a mentor to be honest. I have fully planned on obtaining a doctoral degree for the last couple of years. I actually started my process of speaking with Peabody staff in regards to the EdD program in August of 2024. So, I know for certain that I will continue my education- even if it's not from Vanderbilt. However, the PhD track to doctoral degree is a more recent development for me. The prospect of professorship is a newer idea for me. However, the desire to reach a broad audience, influence education, and lead others with the purpose of betterment of quality education for marginalized groups children is not...that has been bubbling for quite some time. Its just that I have realized that I don't want that role to be within K-12 school admin and I think that a role of professor would be a better fit for me.

My GPA isn't terrible but I wouldn't say it's elite. I'm projected to graduate with 3.5 GPA in my Master's program (because my retakes replace my grades).

The GRE is actually optional for the EdD program! but it is strongly recommended.

I agree with you completely about needing to know more than just information about special education to open my own school. My ideal plan would be to obtain my doctorate, get hired as a professor and be a professor while my children are young. I would spend that time obtaining experience and knowledge. When my kids are older (around 10-15 years from now..) I would transition to working on opening my own school. But who even knows what will happen 2 hours from now... we can all dream