Connected Academy

 

My undergraduate degree in chemistry focused mainly on organic synthesis and polymers.  Then, I earned my doctorate studying light and liquid crystals, after which I spent a post-doctoral fellowship playing with (and breaking!) DNA. More recently, I have been designing hardware and software for programmable electronic gadgets.  I have a lot of experience teaching chemistry through college introductory courses and labs, and some tutoring that also includes math, physics, and SAT preparation.

 

While my diplomas say 'chemistry', I am a generalist when it comes to learning.  I do love chemistry, but many other things too.  In fact, one of the reasons I chose the chemistry program at Georgia Tech was because it had so many 'free' elective hours I could use studying physics, engineering, and computer science.  As for a more creative side, I have gone through phases (none of them complete, I hope!) that include painting and drawing, recording music, computer-based graphic design, and writing to name a few.  Up next, maybe photography or crafting noble gas (neon) signs ...hmmm.

 

I have always enjoyed teaching, and it is most rewarding when there is a cooperation between students and teacher that leads to discovery for both.  Overall, I would say I am (and hope to remain) equal parts student, teacher, and practitioner of science.  As a scientist, it is always healthy to review the fundamentals, and realize how very possible it is to discover some new aspect, connection, or potential point of misunderstanding even with 'the basics'.  That way, teaching even an elementary topic can itself be a learning experience for me.  Besides, to be an 'expert' it is important to remember what is confusing to a 'beginner'.  Plus, like reading a favorite book, repeating a classic experiment can be simply... fun.  One could expect to find me right alongside my students performing various experiments.  If I am not engaged in the projects then how can I expect them to be?  Honestly, I am a science chauvinist - I want everyone to think this stuff is as cool as I do!  As a teacher, one goal is to challenge the advanced students to seek 'the next level' maybe even teaching me and the class a thing or two along the way.  Another goal is to help those who are having difficulty come to understand, use, and hopefully enjoy the fundamentals.  'Hands on' projects are the best way to do both, and I think students feel empowered when they can build a thing and see it in action.  Better yet, is when they can see extensions of what they are learning (and building) in action in the world around them.

 

With Connected Academy's focus on upper class students, its student-determined, multidisciplinary, real-world and project-based approach, and with my personal approach to teaching (and learning), we could very well be a perfect fit.