I like the variety of students here at COCC, as it fits with my own experiences of completing my college degree as a returning single parent, and being a first-generation college graduate in my family.
I try to be interactive in my classes while still imparting the most important points of information. Students often tell me I have a sense of humor that keeps them interested in the material.
The best part of teaching is seeing students' eyes light up when they "get it" and are completely engaged by the topic. In addition, I am always happy when I hear from former students who say I had a long-term impact on them, on their ability to think critically, on their later occupations, and so on. I recently heard from one of the first students I taught here 16 years ago who intended to become a secondary school teacher. He took my Psych classes and says he remembers the day I suggested he become a psychologist. He’s now a licensed counselor. That's the best aspect of teaching.