March 10, 2009 issue

I have been teaching at EMU for four years. The University was attractive to me because it has both an undergraduate and graduate program in social work. I teach a combination of undergraduate and graduate level courses. I like to teach chemical dependency, social welfare policy and the practice courses.

The large number of nontraditional students at EMU makes for a wonderful learning environment. There's a lot of interaction between the students and myself. I'm able to pull, not just from my own experiences, but also from the students' experiences. Many of my students have a lot of life experience, and personal challenges often bring them into this profession.

Every semester, I have students who are in recovery; are survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse; or have suffered from poverty. Their presence in the classroom enhances the learning experience — not just for other students but, also, for me. They end up being some of the strongest advocates for changing policy. They are determined to get a degree and make a difference.

I really like that we are a teaching university. I love to teach. I love the uncertainty about the possibilities that come out of each learning experience. Teaching is dynamic, so you have to have a certain amount of flexibility. Each class is very different and it depends on the students.

EMU has one of the most supportive faculties that I have ever worked with. As a new faculty (member) coming in, I was surprised at how willing my colleagues were to share information and resources. — Contributed by Heather Hamilton

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