2024 Teaching Academy New Members

What inspires you to teach?

 

Alan Barenberg

"I am inspired to teach because of the way the classroom constantly challenges us.  A well-conceived class challenges students to question their assumptions, ask hard questions, and expand their horizons. The challenge for me as an instructor is to figure out how to facilitate that. Nothing is ever quite the same from semester to semester — whether it's the students, the material, or the context in which we discuss it. This prevents complacency, and it ensures that teaching remains exciting no matter how many times I've taught a particular course, concept, or reading."

 

Cari Carter

"What inspires me to teach is witnessing those transformative 'ah-ha' moments when students truly grasp a concept. I love being a part of their learning journey, as they not only gain knowledge but also gain the confidence to share it with others. Teaching is about fostering understanding and empowering students to pass on their insights, creating a ripple effect of learning and growth."

 

Gencie Houy

"What inspires me to teach is witnessing the moment when students grasp new concepts and immediately apply them to their lives. Seeing their growth and practical application of knowledge fuels my passion for education."

 

Janet Huston

 

Ian Lértora

"I am inspired by being in spaces where people have a desire to learn, are willing to engage in the learning process, and are open to connection during the learning process.  When I am in a classroom or environment where theses aspects are prevalent, I am inspired to learn more as a student, teacher, and a human being. Every space in this world is a place of learning where everyone is forever the student, sometimes the teacher, and always a human, that alone inspires me to assume to role of teacher as needed while forever remaining a student."

 

Kelsey Moore

"What inspires me to teach is the opportunity to challenge students to see the world in a nuanced way—encouraging them to think critically and engage thoughtfully with different perspectives. Teaching is about more than just preparing students for the job market. It is also about helping students to carefully articulate their beliefs, consume information wisely, view life's challenges as opportunities for growth, and bring honesty and humility to their relationships."