jc_63

Hi all, I am very torn between pursuing a career in education (K-12) or in English academia. I've been accepted to a Master of Arts in Teaching program in English (7-12) at an Ivy League school (Columbia University). I'm also interested in pursuing a PhD in English, as I majored in English in undergrad, and I wanted to become an English professor. Is it feasible to get a MAT in English Education (K-12) if I might be interested in pursuing a PhD in English? Or would you recommend that I reapply for a traditional Masters in English? I was considering teaching English at the community college level for a few years after earning my MAT for teaching experience before getting a PhD. Also, is teaching high school English for a few years considered useful/helpful in English PhD admissions? I am still on the fence about my long-term goals between education and English academia - even if I chose to pursue a career in education, my end goal is to become a professor of education [educational leadership and policy] at a top research university. Please feel free to send thoughts, advice, and best wishes! Thank you.