All of us dressed in impeccably pressed school uniforms β girls in brown dresses overlayed with frilly white aprons and boys in blue suits. Little did I know that it would be my last. As a child, I played teacher like other children played lion or crocodile, never imagining that I would become one. Transitioning from the cultural traditions of the Caucasus to the United States, I learned that human interaction is complex, often driven by unspoken customs and expectations.
From a young age I was taught to refuse politely any offer of food until that offer is made for the third time. This custom is worthy of a dissertation, but suffice it to say that the action is intended to show that the person being offered food is well-fed and is not in need. The custom became ingrained and worked well because all those around me knew how to play. Well, imagine my incredulity and disappointment when my new American friends only offered once! This girl was hungry!
These early cross-cultural experiences shaped a deep understanding of the importance of fostering open communication while embracing diversity in all its forms, particularly in the classroom setting. As I grew older, my love for school and learning found a natural companion in the sciences. Following an undergraduate degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, I found a new home in the American South, where hospitality traditions were so reminiscent of my own.
Vanderbilt University was an idyllic place for this avid learner to pursue a Ph. And after completing the postdoc, I found work as a middle school teacher. For the next 15 years I taught science and mathematics to young people and I learned! I developed into an educator who nurtures students to see themselves as competent STEM people, who inspires them to think critically about and act empathetically within the world.
Driven by my experiences as a refugee, I ensure that diverse perspectives and narratives are represented in my curriculum. Three years ago, I found my way back to Vanderbilt University seeking an opportunity to do both β learn through education and research. The metaphorical gateway worked in the other direction too! I joined the CSEO to instruct the Day of Discovery DoD program that engages middle school students in high level science, imparts them with skills relevant for success in advanced STEM courses, and exposes them to the everyday working habits of researchers, scientists, and engineers.
