In 2011 I earned my PhD in the interdisciplinary field of International Studies. I am a historian in my interest, a political scientist in my approach, a writing and study skills aficionado in the classroom, and an artist in my spare time. I enjoy giving the gift of learning in as many fields and ways as possible to my students so that they can succeed in whatever professional path they may choose.
Here's a bit more detail about my academic background:
As I mentioned, my academic background is in International Relations/International Studies (MA 2004 and PhD 2011).
-I have taught domestically and internationally in my field for four years (in Colorado and Germany), with an emphasis on social scientific and historical research methods. My goal in the classroom was always to give students the tools to engage with the field themselves so that when they finish the course, they will not just remember content details, but they will know how to continue pursuing learning about the subject.
-I worked as a professional writing consultant and editor at the University of Denver for three years, which added to the two years I worked as a writing tutor during my BA and MA programs. In that capacity, I worked with over a hundred students individually to hone their academic and professional writing skills; examples of work included grant applications, course papers, cover letters and resumes and dissertations. I also was trained to work with students with different learning styles and/or disabilities, so I will always adapt a learning approach to a student's needs.
-I am well-versed in college admissions processes: My interdisciplinary background makes me particularly well prepared and sympathetic towards those students preparing for a liberal arts education. Having taught at the college level for several years, and having written references for college admissions officers, I am familiar with what colleges look for in applications and in college coursework. In addition to my work experience in education, I have also been a volunteer career mentor and admissions interviewer for my alma mater, Oberlin College, since I graduated in 2001.
-I have taught students of all ages and backgrounds: I taught students with learning disabilities at the University of Denver; I taught middle school students and teachers in multiple summer programs; I had many non-traditional students with families and full-time jobs in my classes; and I have taught native and non-native English speakers.
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