I love teaching and being in the classroom, where I aim to create an inclusive, dynamic, and engaging learning environment. By fostering critical thinking, mentorship, and collaboration, I encourage students to challenge their worldviews, apply sociological principles to real-world contexts, and develop the skills to make a meaningful impact in their communities. I view the entire campus and the world as a sociology classroom, using immersive experiences, field trips, and university resources to inspire curiosity and excitement for learning. Teaching for me is a continuous, evolving process where I adapt to students’ needs, incorporate innovative methods, and empower them to connect their education to their lives and communities. 

Key Highlights of My Teaching Approach:

• Sociology Everywhere: I transform the classroom into a hub for real-world exploration, helping students connect sociological theories to their everyday lives and broader environments. Through immersive experiences like field trips to university museums and botanical gardens, I turn the campus into a living sociology lab. For instance, students analyzed gender bias in botanical science during a visit to Michigan State University’s botanical garden. These activities foster an enduring appreciation for sociology.

• Innovative and Engaging Assignments: I encourage students to explore course material creatively through projects like podcasts, journals, and unboxing videos. Assignments such as designing Met Gala costumes inspired by inequality make abstract concepts relatable and engaging. Collaborative efforts, such as a student-created playlist on race and ethnicity, showcase how students actively engage with material.
• Inclusivity and Mentorship: I prioritize inclusivity by using pre-class surveys to understand students’ needs and foster a classroom where all voices are valued. I view teaching as a mentorship role, building supportive relationships with students that encourage both academic and personal growth.
• Critical Thinking and Collaboration: Through strategies like role-playing games and peer evaluations, I guide students in questioning assumptions and developing analytical skills. These approaches promote collaboration and accountability, ensuring an inclusive and dynamic learning environment.
• Technology and Ethical Learning Practices: I integrate discussions on tools like generative AI to enhance learning while emphasizing ethical practices. Collaboratively setting guidelines empowers students to take ownership of their education.You can view a sample syllabus of mine that reflects my teaching philosophy in action.