Jacqueline LeFevre
High school science teacher Learning Experience Designer / Instructional Designer
EMSI
ID Bootcamp (Now the Certification Program)
Jacqueline transitioned from teaching into her first instructional design contract with EMSI, where her portfolio projects and bootcamp experience opened the door to real-world opportunities.
Before joining the Bootcamp, she was a high school science teacher who loved sparking curiosity in students but longed for more flexibility and creative opportunities. She found the structure and encouragement she needed to transition, committing herself to building her portfolio while substitute teaching and networking weekly on LinkedIn.
“The coursework, mentorship, and community gave me the structure and confidence to keep pushing forward.”
— Jacqueline LeFevre
A Portfolio Built on Creativity and Care for Learners
Jacqueline's portfolio reflects her background in science education and her passion for designing meaningful learning experiences, pairing strong instructional design theory with original artwork and thoughtful interactivity.
Apply NowScenario-Based Learning with Therapy Dogs
Jacqueline designed a scenario-based eLearning experience to help nurses and enrichment coordinators facilitate positive interactions between therapy dog units and their patients. The project walks facilitators through realistic decisions, preparing them to navigate animal-patient interactions with confidence.
She created all of the artwork herself and incorporated subtle animations to keep learners engaged. The project demonstrates her ability to apply instructional design theory to a real-world problem, designing practice scenarios that build both empathy and decision-making skills.
From Classroom to Contract Designer
After publishing her portfolio, Jacqueline committed to a steady, focused job search. She balanced substitute teaching, freelance branding, and weekly networking on LinkedIn while applying to positions.
Though the process came with its ups and downs, she stayed consistent, and soon saw results. She interviewed with several companies before officially accepting a contract role as an instructional designer with EMSI.
The position allows her to apply her new skills in a professional setting, gain valuable client experience, and continue building toward a long-term corporate ID career.
“Coming from a background in science education, I've always been passionate about solving complex problems in creative ways. I wanted a career where I could dedicate time to designing learning experiences, be valued for my work, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.”
“While learning in the Bootcamp, I was building my freelancer brand and substitute teaching while applying and interviewing for instructional design positions. The coursework, mentorship, and community gave me the structure and confidence to keep pushing forward. I continued to build projects for myself, potential employers, and my portfolio while networking weekly on LinkedIn.”
“In just over six months, I landed a role I truly love. The Bootcamp gave me the skills, mindset, and network to make that happen, and I'm so grateful for the experience.”
