Teaching Philosophy
I find immense joy in education and hope to pass on that joy to others. The idea of spending a life surrounded by people who want to learn more about the world around us is a dream that I have never been able to shake. As an aspiring research professor, I'm developing my own teaching style inspired by all the instructors I've had along the way. I'm particularly fond of Socratic-style teaching, field-based learning, and using scientific literature to promote critical thinking. Influenced by my experience at a small, liberal arts school, I will always maintain an open-door policy.
Teaching Assistantships
Oklahoma State University Wildlife Management Applications and Planning
Principles of Wildlife Ecology and Management
Brigham Young University Mammals of North America
Principles of Wildlife and Fisheries Management
Simpson College Human Biology
Principles of Biology
Teaching Evaluations
Highlights
"Matt has been among the top TA's I've had in my four years of college and was able to engage with students personally and help us learn difficult things. He was always very approachable and easy to work with."
"He was always prepared for class with a smile on his face and he made coming to lab the most enjoyable part of my day. Matt genuinely cares about his students, their mental well-being, and their performance in the class."
"I admire his motivation to help students understand the coursework...I plan on simulating his teaching style in the future to those that I mentor."
"He worked extensively with our class...I've never had a TA so engaged."
Outreach
Elected Positions Graduate Student Organization Speaker Committee (Oklahoma State University)
Senior Class Senator (Simpson College)
Sustainability Club President (Simpson College)
Volunteer Work Utah Division of Wildlife Resources
