I love coming to Fordham, but when I found out that I was going to have to take science – and two science classes at that – I panicked a little. I am a writer and have made sure not to take a ‘real’ science class since sophomore year of high school. When I spoke about my fears with some of the upperclassman I had met they all had just one thing to say to me, “Take Dr, Luckett.” So I followed their instructions and here I am halfway through my semester of Human Function and Dysfunction with Dr. Luckett and all I can really say to you prospective students is – Take Dr. Luckett.
She is very serious about teaching us science, but has made it so much fun and really easy to follow. Her notes are organized and straight-forward. She is forthright about everything you would need to know to succeed. She has made a subject that has always been difficult and boring to me into a class that I enjoy going to and have actually learned from. I got to analyze blood samples, see a sheep’s brain, and go temporarily blind (but only through an optical illusion, not really!). Dr. Luckett is one of Fordham’s best assets and I do highly recommend that both science and non-science majors take her at least once.
Where did you study and complete your degrees?
I went to Pace University for my B.S. in Biology; Fordham University (Rose Hill) for my M.S. in Biology and PhD in Genetics.
What is your title at Fordham and what do you teach?
Lecturer in Biology, I teach biology to science majors and non-majors.
What is your specialization?
My specialization is genetics and my main interest is human genetic abnormalities. Currently, my research involves the study of mammalian aging.
What do you like about teaching at Fordham?
I love the freedom that I have to use different teaching methods to reach my students. I also like the support that is available from the other faculty at Lincoln Center. Lincoln Center is my home campus.
What are your classes like and your teaching style?
My classes are unique and very “interesting”. :- ) I use the Whiteboard as my main teaching tool but I will use PowerPoint if I need a visual image. I have a very interactive way of teaching. When I teach, I always try to make eye contact with each student in my class.
How do you tailor your classes for students that aren’t science majors in your classes?
I do my best to relate different science topics or issues, especially difficult ones, to everyday events that my students can understand. Since I know that many students have this “fear” of science, I show them how much fun science really is and it is!! By the middle and especially at the end of the semester, most of my students are not afraid of science. The lab component of the course is especially designed for the non-major. The one lab that I think that my students love the most is the Forensics “Crime Scene” lab.
Why would you recommend students come to Fordham?
Fordham is a place where you can learn and be that person that you are meant to be. It’s a community not just a place of learning. Faculty and administrators really do know who you are.
Anything else you would like prospective Fordham students to know about you, your department, or the school?
I am in the Natural Sciences department and we strive to make sure that our science majors succeed, which they do. We strongly encourage our majors to do research. During the academic year, but mainly in the summer, our students have an opportunity to do research with members of our department or do outside research and internships. I love teaching at the Lincoln Center campus. It’s like a second home where there is always someone there to welcome you.
No comments:
Post a Comment