Teaching Philosophy

For the first-year or returning student, the college experience is intimidating, as students attempt to navigate imposing buildings to find classes, student services, financial aid and the bookstore. For the incoming freshmen that reside on campus, adjusting to dorm culture can be difficult and often stressful.  Many students become frustrated with the new experience while others rise to the occasion and successfully steer through the university system.

I was once that undergraduate student who became overwhelmed my first semester at CSU-Northridge and failed all my classes. I was not aware and did not take advantage of the valuable resources made available to students. As a result, my years as an undergraduate were marked by early frustration, academic probation and discouragement. However, two professors saw raw talent and believed in me, often at times, when I did not, and offered to become my mentor, which provided direction and guidance.

Education allowed me to breathe and gave purpose and direction to my life. Education became my hustle.  I would not be standing here, at the PhD level, if it was not for my grind. Work-ethic will take you farther than knowledge ascertained in the classroom. Do not wait for success to appear, gift-wrapped in a big bow; go out and make it happen.

As Malcolm X asserted, "education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today." This statement altered my approach to education, as I recognized the importance of acquiring the necessary skills to complete my goals. I implemented a pro-active attitude in making responsible academic decisions, such as mapping a research plan for a final paper in a course and strategizing during exams. Most importantly, I learned that I am accountable for the academic decisions I make.

I encourage students to set academic and personal goals, as this will allow students to map their road to success.  However, freshmen must understand that a map is not linear, as many side roads can emerge to present challenges during the course of a semester.  Yet, the development of skills will provide the tools for students to successfully meet these challenges. It is important that students take from my class, specific life skills, such as accountability, understanding finances and making dependable choices that will assist them in future endeavors.

Assignments that stress the importance of oral, written and reading skills are the focal points of my class. A student’s capability to analyze a document, grasp the various arguments surrounding the document, articulate an original thesis and then orally convey this argument is an invaluable life skill. By stressing that one must always look beyond the past interpretations, students begin to question and change scholarship.

In addition, I want my students to be able to examine a primary document, such as a newspaper article and observe it with an astute lens. Through analysis, students will realize that events and people contribute to the dynamics of a larger global community. A critical lens will assist students in the Transdisciplinary exchange of knowledge with classmates.

Lastly, it is important that undergraduate students develop concrete skills that will enable academic and personal success. Time management is crucial to balancing academic responsibilities and personal obligations. In addition, students need to be familiar with campus resources, as programs such as the Writing Center, library services and tutoring will assist freshmen in difficult courses. Lastly, academic and personal responsibilities are necessary elements for student success, as undergraduate must make acceptable decisions with coursework and personal issues.  

I look forward to working with you and assisting you in obtaining academic success!