Department of Mathematical Sciences, The Leonid Zvavich Graduate Teaching Award.

Malak Lafi

Courses taught:

• Basic Algebra
• Pathways Courses 11010, 10775, Boost

In College Teaching, I try to emphasize

• The importance of encouraging students to think mathematically, figure things out on their own, drawing ideas and concepts from the student rather than just telling them;
• The importance of cooperative learning – the benefits of having students discuss their mathematical thinking with their peers;
• The importance of being prepared – having a plan, knowing what’s important, how to use your time.

I have often wondered – what happens down the road with my College Teaching students – several semesters later. Do they remember what we discussed in our College teaching class.

Well, Malak asked me to sit in on her class not all that long ago, I was delighted to see that she:

• Encouraged students to think mathematically, drawing ideas from the students rather than telling them
• Had students working in groups, encouraging them to figure things out with their peers;
• Had a clear plan, knowing precisely what she was going to do next.

She has also served as a mentor to younger grad students.

I’m delighted to recognize Malak for this year’s Graduate Student Recognition. 

Andrew Summers

I remember the first time I sat in on Andrew’s class during his first semester here – Kent Hall, wasn’t it? I was happily impressed by his expertise in the classroom. During his first semester! His students were engaged and working in groups, used the Socratic method and drew ideas from his students, encouraged them to think on their own and had a fantastic rapport with them. He was energetic, enthusiastic, and used his time incredibly well.

Over the years, he too , has taught a variety of courses, including the Algebra for Calculus course, the Boost course, Quantitative Reasoning, Intuitive Calculus, and Trigonometry. His other course coordinators also have spoken very highly of him.

He served as a mentor for new graduate students and his observations and insights were spot-on. I could always count on him to give his mentees good advice and be prompt with reporting any issues to me.

Just a year ago, he had the opportunity to travel with our Brazil team and teach the Algebra for Calculus class there. What an opportunity that was! He handled it with aplomb, even taking on the students I was supposed to teach when a family emergency occurred for me here and kept me home. Never a complaint, always willing to help – with that optimistic outlook of his.

He’s been a real joy to work with and effective in the classroom.

Andrew, It’s our pleasure to recognize you for this year’s Graduate Student Recognition. 

Kazi Nur Uddin

Courses taught:

• Basic Algebra courses, Algebra for Calculus, Algebra for Calculus Boost, Trigonometry, Calc I and Calc II; Calc with Pre-Calc
• A good variety of courses!
• Other course coordinators have commented about his preparedness for class.

When I first observed Kazi during his first semester here (in the old Business building), I remember being impressed with his excellent rapport with his students, his friendliness and kindness to them. This doesn’t always happen for a first time international grad student and I was delighted to have him teaching the Algebra for Calculus class.

Since then, he has been a real team player – teaching up to 10 credit hours one fall semester, I believe, since we needed someone to cover a Calc II class. In addition, he readily agreed to sub for another grad student who was having health issues. A very willing worker, always upbeat, well-prepared for his classes. A valuable member of any teaching team.

I also know how special his young family is to him.

Kazi, congratulations on being a recipient of this year’s Graduate Student Recognition!