My background is in vertebrate zoology and behavioral ecology, but over last few years I have shifted my focus from research to undergraduate teaching and advising. I became interested and engaged in teaching during my years in graduate school. Even though I always enjoyed research, I quickly realized that my talents could be best applied to undergraduate education, and I am convinced that I have chosen the best profession in the world. Over the course of my career, I have adjusted my approach to teaching, shifting focus from covering content, to actively engaging students in learning concepts. I come from a very traditional, content-based approach to education, and fully identifying and embracing a student-centered approach to teaching did not come easily for me. And even though I have made progress over years, I will never stop working to become a better teacher and mentor to my students.
