Each one of these activities is extremely important and rewarding for me, and I am grateful that I am able to have such diversity in my work life. While I was in graduate school I was unsure whether or not I would join the world of academics as a teacher. What I did know, however, was that if I did teach, I would want to do it at a community college. I was very clear that the community college environment was an important part of my success as a student, and I wanted to give back some of what I had received. My philosophy on education is pretty simple.
Education is a path to empowerment.
As a teacher it is my job to help the student learn by giving encouragement, assistance, support and an environment that feels enthusiastic and interesting. It is the student's job to bring a sense of personal responsibility, a willingness to work and participate fully in the academic experience.