What is the core of your teaching philosophy in one sentence?
As a former collegiate athlete and tennis coach, I view teaching like coaching: I am the coach, while my students are the players.
My motivation to become a college professor comes from …
A simple quote from my college tennis coach: "If you love what you do, you will never work another day in your life." After years coaching tennis, I realized I didn't love what I was doing. I went back to school and discovered my passion for the college environment, which lead me to academia.
The three most valuable or important methods/approaches/attitudes/etc. that I bring to my teaching practice are …
If you ask my students, they would say my enthusiasm in the classroom, my empathy, and understanding for them, and simple organization skills that help to make a great learning environment.
The resource of person that has been the most important influence in my teaching career is … (and why)
This may sound cliche, but the most important person in my teaching career is my husband, Kyle. He's not in education, or even coaching, but there is no doubt in my mind that I would NOT be here today if it wasn't for his unwavering support.
The most challenging aspect of teaching for me is … (and what I do about it)
Caring more than the student cares. I had to learn early that I cannot care more than they do. It's hard for me when students aren't doing well, but I can only do so much.
The one teaching technique or strategy that I would recommend to my colleagues to enhance student learning the most is …
Find a course rhythm that you stick to every week. While the content changes every week, keep the routines the same. This helps students know what to expect.
“What gives me a high is hearing back from former students who reference my class as a key stepping stone to their successful career.”