TESOL Student Testimonials
See what TESOL graduate students have to say about their experience in the program — practical, supportive, and professional.
Milena Palacios 
K-12 Multilingual and Spanish Immersion Teacher |
MA TESOL - 2025
"The MA TESOL program at Minnesota State University, Mankato, has been a transformative journey that has profoundly shaped my teaching career. Through its well-rounded curriculum, dedicated faculty, and enriching practical experiences, I have gained the skills and confidence to foster an engaging and inclusive classroom as a Spanish immersion teacher. This program has provided me with research-based strategies that I apply daily, from scaffolding language instruction to promoting cross-cultural understanding among my students. I am deeply grateful for the knowledge, mentorship, and opportunities this program has offered me, and I wholeheartedly encourage educators seeking to impact multilingual learners to embark on this incredible path."
Lyndsay Bitz 
9-12 English and Multilingual Teacher | MA TESOL - 2025
"I have really enjoyed being a part of the MA TESOL program at Mankato State. The concepts I have learned in classes have been able to be directly applied to my current teaching position, and many of the unit plans I have created I have used with my current students. The professors are supportive and are there to assist throughout the program to ensure students are successful. I am in my 11th year of teaching English, and since beginning the program, I feel that I have gained knew knowledge and am better equipped to meet the needs of my multilingual students."
Jeonghwa Mun 
International Student | Adjunct Faculty & ABE Instructor |
MA TESOL - 2024
"I am confident that the MA TESOL program at Minnesota State University, Mankato was a turning point in my journey to becoming an authentic English teacher. Despite having over a decade of teaching experience, studying this MA program provided me with many "aha" moments that offered fresh perspectives. The faculty is knowledgeable and supportive, and choosing this program will be a decision you won’t regret."
Oluwatoyin Olowu 
International Student | Intensive English Program |
Instructor MA TESOL - 2025
"My journey in the TESOL program has been truly incredible! It stands as one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. I can proudly say that I have learned from the most dedicated and inspiring professors who generously poured their best and passion into us. They are selfless, empathetic, and have a genuine interest in the success of their students. Their mentorship is indeed invaluable, shaping especially my academic growth and confidence as an educator. I am deeply thankful to have been a part of the TESOL program, and for the support I received all the way!"
Rachel Ryan 
K-12 Multilingual and Language Arts Teacher |
MA English Education - 2025 | MA TESOL - 2026
"The MA TESOL program at Minnesota State University, Mankato, has equipped me with the invaluable skills needed to become an effective K-12 multilingual learning teacher. The uniquely designed comprehensive curriculum, supportive and personable faculty, and hands-on experiences in this program empowered me to confidently meet the diverse needs of my students, fostering an inclusive, equitable, and dynamic learning environment. I have and will continue to highly recommend that anybody looking into a career with multilingual individuals enroll in this program."
