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Teaching Statement
Having been a student at 3 separate universities, I know what a difference a good professor can make on student learning and success. My goal as a science educator is to stimulate student interest and excitement about in-class topics regardless of their respective career paths. I aim to inspire the next generation of scientific researchers, particularly those who are underrepresented in STEM fields.
While I am a hands-on learner and I recognize that not all students learn the same way. Therefore, I believe that having open and honest conversations with students about teaching methodology is vitally important, especially during complicated times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. I also believe in being an empathetic and understanding educator. Students are only human and being more aware of the struggles that they face in the classroom will allow me to find new and innovative ways to motivate them.
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Graduate Teaching Assistant
Biological Anthropology
I was the instructor for the Honors Introduction to Biological Anthropology course (ANTH 1013H) at the University of Arkansas. In this class we covered topics such as population genetics, evolutionary theory, human osteology, primate adaptations, and hominin evolution.
I have also served as a lab instructor, where I provided hands-on experience with anatomical models and fossils that students would otherwise never encounter. This supplements the information that they are absorbing in the main class. This also provides the students with a more interpersonal opportunity to learn.
Anatomy Teaching Fellow
In the summer of 2023, I worked as a Teaching Fellow at High Point University for the Gross Human Anatomy Course and Lab in the Physician Assistant program. My responsibilities included assisting with the instruction of graduate students in human cadaveric dissections, preparing and dissecting human cadaveric specimens, and aiding in the composition and grading of written and practical exams.
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In the fall of 2023, I was a Lab Teaching Assistant for the graduate level Gross Human Anatomy class in the Anthropology department at the University of Arkansas. We would spend weekends in the cadaver lab at the Arkansas College of Health Education (ACHE) in Ft. Smith, AR where students could examine prosected cadavers and preform dissections.
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I also volunteer at the ACHE where I assist with prosection and student led dissections for first year medical students.
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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
I am a proud UARK Safe Zone Ally.
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"Safe Zone Allies are members of the University of Arkansas who believe that all students and people in the campus community should be treated equally and fairly regardless of sexual orientation and and gender identity.
Allies are supportive and affirming of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender students and employees and their identities. Allies listen without judgment, provide safe spaces for visitors to share their concerns, and refer visitors appropriately to resources for assistance." -UARK Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education