My Teaching Influences

For my final post I thought it would be appropriate to recognize those that influenced my pedagogy, the lessons they taught me, and how it relates to theory we have discussed in class. There are a number of people who had a real impact on my life and have encouraged me to pursue teaching. In one way or another I owe my decisions this year to these people.

I certainly wouldn't have ever considered teaching without the influence my parents had on me. My father was a community college professor for 40 years and cared deeply about making a real and lasting impact on his students lives. I remember him bringing me to classes, to his office, and walking around the halls of Eastfield Community College. He would often bring home stories of students or situations that we could all learn from. He always acted in true solidarity with his students who were marginalized, and often helped them in ways that weren't solely academic. He is constantly reminding me to form a true bond with students, and get to know them personally. He has probably never read Freire, but represents the concepts Freire proposes wholeheartedly. My mother has also worked in education for the last decade or so. When I was an undergrad she worked in the admissions department of the SMU graduate school, and I was lucky enough to get to work in the same office as a student aid. She showed me the business side of education and applied a sense of consciousness and kindness to the students who were going through the admissions process. Without the influence of my parents and their selflessness I would not have made this decision.

There are many reasons I could not do this without the love and support of my wife Brooke. She was the one who initially encouraged me to pursue this goal, and assured me that we would make it work. Her biggest contribution to my pedagogy from a theoretical perspective is the process of self-disclosure as a means to engage students. She has a knack for self-disclosure and is always encouraging me and others to be themselves and open up. Also, she gives great advice for handling difficult situations with students despite not have any formal experience with teaching. 

When I was an undergrad I had a Comm professor who I considered my mentor. He taught my Org Comm, Comm Theory, and a Globalization class in London when I studied abroad. Dr. Owen Lynch teaches with a very distinct style, and intentionally incorporates humor in his lectures. He was able to keep his students engaged while also covering large amounts of information. He also runs and operates a farm in South Dallas and encourages students to become involved with causes they care about. His "lead by example" style of teaching has greatly influenced me.

I also want to acknowledge our Pedagogy class. My classmates and Karen have had a huge influence on how I approach teaching. I'm constantly inspired by each classmate in different ways, and am so grateful for the experience Karen has guided us all through. I'd like to briefly give you all a shoutout:

Andrew - your approach to writing is so honest and authentic. I want to help my students feel that way about writing, as that was never something I experienced myself.

Cyn - it's apparent how passionate you are about really engaging students and bringing energy to every single class. It has inspired me to do the same.

Cynthia - your conviction to teach is incredible. To be doing what you're doing given your upbringing and current obstacles is a testament to your strength and conviction.

Madison - you bring such creativity to teaching. I would have never thought a class about monsters could exist, but you've helped me think creatively about teaching.

Emily - I have relied on you most of all as we have taught the same classes this semester. Thank you for being so helpful and insightful about our classes and grading.

Maddii - your kindness towards everyone in class and towards students is so welcome, and I wish more people had that level of intention and grace.

Mo - I had a student in another class bring up what an impact you have made on her. She doesn't know you and I have classes together so I know it was a very genuine sentiment. To have that type of impact on a student is admirable. 

Chrissy - thank you for being unapologetically yourself. Your energy and passion have rubbed off on everyone in class.

Xitzel - you've talked a lot about reflexivity and identity, and it has inspired me to do the same. Even though we all have different experiences with identity it is important to all reflect on it.

Also thank you to Karen for really challenging all of us to think critically and lovingly about how we approach teaching. Throughout my whole educational experience I've never had a teacher who teaches teachers, and it is so motivating to be around someone with such a passion for education. I know I didn't really get much into theory in this post, but felt compelled to thank everyone who has helped me get to here.

"Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself" - John Dewey.

Thanks for a great semester :)