Madeleine Mathews was a Scientific Teaching Fellow in 2019 while pursuing a PhD in environmental chemistry and technology. Today, she is an assistant professor at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, where she is jointly appointed in the departments of Chemistry & Biochemistry and Environmental Studies & Sciences. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, hiking, running, camping, and biking.
What was one of the most valuable things you learned as a Fellow?
Thinking critically about the objective(s) of the lesson. In my first year of teaching at Gonzaga, I have noticed that when I am able to take the time to do this, the lesson seems more organized and student learning seems more directed at what I’d like them to learn. However, I also learned that teaching can be an iterative process and that it’s okay to not get everything right the first time!
How have you applied the skills and knowledge from this program in your career?
I have used (to varying degrees of success) many of the skills I learned from the program, including inclusive teaching methods and scientific learning skills.
What excites you about teaching?
I get excited about asking students to think critically about scientific concepts and apply them to real-world scenarios. It’s great to see the realization moment for students, when they connect the class theory to an actual situation!
Learn more about Scientific Teaching Fellows.