What class subjects do you teach?
This semester I am teaching two classes of general psychology, abnormal psychology, personality theories and research methods. I’ve worked at Xavier University in Louisiana and the University of South Alabama prior to working here and taught psychological statistics, tests and measurements, industrial/organizational psych and psychology and gender, and I’ll probably be teaching some of those in future semesters here.
What would you say attracted you to the field of teaching?
I think one of the things that attracted me to the field of teaching was helping students and helping others grow professionally and personally. I love those light-bulb moments when a concept sticks, especially in classes like research methods or psych stats where they’re often the subjects where students feel intimidated or maybe they will be tricky subject matters. When they get it and see the excitement and what they are able to accomplish, it is so much fun.
Second, in my classes, I always try to help students explore themselves, in terms of their personalities, values, or their interests. My background is in counseling psych, so a lot of my research is in helping people with their career decisions. I always try to incorporate self-exploration assignments into my classes so students can learn about themselves and go out in the world in a career path that aligns with their interests and values.
What appealed to you about teaching at Spring Hill College?
So much. When I first moved to Mobile, I wanted to get back into academia. Looking into local institutions, I thought Spring Hill would be an ideal place for me. Whenever I think about Spring Hill’s mission, in particular, I think about not only preparing students for professional excellence – but with cura personalis – preparing the individual as a whole. We’re not just working with students, working with colleagues, doing the teaching of the academic subjects but helping them really grow as an overall person. I love that. I think being at a place where that doesn’t just necessarily just translate to the students but to the staff and faculty too, this isn’t necessarily just a job – it sounds cheesy – but it’s a way of life, a way of being. We can promote each other holistically.
What’s your favorite spot on campus?
I like so many spots, it’s tricky. I’ve got a really good view outside of my window. I’m overlooking a little courtyard with a fountain. I’ve taken it upon myself to try to master the giant hill. It’s like a love-hate relationship with that hill right now, but it’s beautiful and it’s extremely hard to run up. The Avenue of the Oaks is gorgeous too, I always end my runs on campus there. I love campus, with everyone out and about, it’s definitely like a little community.
What is your most prized possession?
I have a four year old son, he’s the world to me. We enjoy going on walks. We have a 15-year-old dog too, we love her also. In terms of possessions, if I had to pick an actual object, it might be our house. I really like our house in Midtown in Mobile. I feel like our street is great. I guess it’s not the house itself, but I’m thankful for the greater community, since we’re close to downtown, where we can meet friends and colleagues. I genuinely get along with all of my neighbors. The possession of my house allows me to connect with my community more.
ABOUT SPRING HILL COLLEGE:
Founded in 1830, Spring Hill College is the oldest Catholic college in the Southeast and the third oldest Jesuit college in the United States. Spring Hill combines the Jesuit tradition of excellence in education and a commitment to caring for the whole person – mind, body, and spirit – with innovative educational experiences. Located in Mobile, Ala., Spring Hill’s mission is to form leaders engaged in learning, faith, justice and service for life. As a result, Spring Hill students are engaged, inspired and transformed by their experiences.