E237: Efren Velazquez: Student to colleague, building community, mentorship, and personal growth

In this episode Eric interviews Efren Velazquez from the University of North Georgia in Gainsville, GA. Efren reflects on his 13-year journey since graduating from Boise State University. They discuss his career progression, including his promotion to associate professor and imminent consideration for full professorship. The conversation delves into the challenges and self-doubt faced during the tenure process, often referred to as imposter syndrome. He shares his experience launching a community-focused family literacy program with his department chair and the importance of involving students in community engagement. They also reminisce about their mentor-mentee relationship at Boise State and the significant role mentorship plays in academic and professional development. Future aspirations, including potential administrative roles and other key anecdotes, round out this insightful episode. [Note: Portions of the show notes were generated using Descript AI.]

In this episode Eric interviews Mitch Handelsman from the University of Colorado Denver, in Denver, CO. They engage in a spirited conversation about various topics, including university mottos and logos, the history of their academic careers, and the impact of AI on teaching and learning. Mitch elaborates on his background, the influence of his family, and his journey through academia. The conversation also touches upon the challenges of retirement, the role of luck and effort in career success, and how AI is reshaping educational practices. Mitch emphasizes the importance of adapting teaching methods to meet the needs of an ever-changing student demographic and the significance of ethical considerations in the age of AI. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this sidebar episode Eric interviews Malin Lilley (Texas A&M University-Central Texas), Dawn Weatherford (Texas A&M University-San Antonio), and Ho Huynh (Australian National University). They discuss the development and impact of the Psychology Research Experience Preparedness (PREP) program. Designed by three psychology colleagues, PREP aims to equip undergraduates with the knowledge and confidence needed to participate in research experiences early in their academic careers. The program includes various modules covering essential topics like the research process, ethics, professionalism, and more. The creators emphasize its potential as an equalizer for students at different preparedness levels and highlight its utility for instructors by integrating it into their courses. Funded by NSF, PREP is free, openly accessible, and tailored not just for top-tier students but for all who might benefit from early exposure to research. For more on PREP: https://tinyurl.com/PREPPSYC [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]  

In this episode Eric interviews Jon Grahe from the Gaffney Group and Illumin Analytics in a Part 2 interview. They discuss his journey from being a psychology professor to working in sales, particularly in the solar and roofing industries, and now as an advanced funeral planner. Jon shares his experiences of door-to-door sales, the challenges and insights gained, and how his background in psychology has been instrumental in his new roles. He emphasizes the importance of pre-planning funeral arrangements and the emotional aspects of his current role. The conversation also touches on Jon's passion for environmental conservation, particularly his interest in beavers and their role in wetlands. Despite the career shift, Jon remains actively engaged in academic projects and continues to contribute to scholarly work, highlighting the flexibility and opportunities that his new career path provides. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this episode Eric interviews Mary Kite from Ball State University in Muncie, IN. Mary shares her recent retirement journey and the factors influencing her decision, including personal loss and the changing landscape of higher education. The discussion delves into the impact of legislative changes on academic freedom and the introduction of AI in education. She reflects on her extensive career, the evolution of teaching psychology, and the importance of following one's passion. Offering advice to new educators, she emphasizes maintaining a work-life balance and avoiding the pitfalls of comparison. The episode concludes with an optimistic outlook on academic life and the lasting impact educators have on their students. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this episode Eric interviews Eric Amsel from Weber State University in Odgen, UT. They discuss the challenges and responsibilities of supporting underprepared students in higher education. Highlighting a case where developmental math and English retention rates were brought from 40% to approximately 60-65%, they emphasize the need for better support systems for students with big dreams who begin their college journey underprepared. Eric A. reflects on his own experiences and the mission of an open enrollment regional comprehensive institution to enhance student success. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

New to PsychSessions? Everything You Need to Know in Two Minutes

In this episode Garth interviews Regan for a Part 3 interview from Oregon State University in Corvallis, OR. They discuss Regan's journey from his early days in Green Bay to his current position at Oregon State University. Regan shares insights on balancing professional and personal life, emphasizing the importance of social support, sleep, and maintaining networks. The conversation also covers his latest work, including his collaboration with Wayne Whiten on the 12th edition of 'Psychology Themes and Variations,' his successful book 'Study Like a Champ,' and his upcoming project 'Teach Like a Champ.' They also touch on the significance of student engagement and belonging, the Intro Psych Academy, and the evolving challenges in teaching psychology. Regan emphasizes a data-driven, yet humanistic approach to teaching and discusses the importance of adapting and continually learning as an educator. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this episode Garth and special guest host Jane Halonen interviewed Bill Hill, emeritus faculty from Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, GA. Bill Hill is a distinguished figure in the field of psychology and a key contributor to the Society for the Teaching of Psychology (STP). He discusses his extensive career at Kennesaw State University, where he wore multiple hats from faculty member to vice president for academic affairs. The discussion delves into his foundational role in various teaching conferences and his efforts to promote community and mentorship within STP. Jane Halonen and Bill also reminisce about their collaborative efforts in program reviews and their significant contributions to the development of psychology guidelines. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Bill underscores the importance of community, mentorship, and adaptability in academia. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this Part 2 episode, Garth interviews Bridgette Hard from Duke University in Durham, NC (with special guest host Jane Halonen). Bridgette discusses her journey and experiences as a faculty member and conference organizer at Duke University. She shares insights on the significance of creating a supportive teaching-focused environment, the development of clearer guidelines for evaluating teaching effectiveness, and tackling the challenge of integrating technology and AI in education. She also reflects on her ongoing project of writing an interactive introductory psychology textbook that emphasizes personal wellbeing and effective engagement with diverse perspectives. She provides updates on the impact of COVID-19 on student resilience and engagement. The conversation underscores the significance of storytelling in education and the dynamic landscape of higher education. [Note. Descript AI generated portions of the show notes.]