In Her Words

“Understanding the students, individually and collectively, is as important as understanding the course material. No two classes behave the same. I try to tailor the structure of each lesson to my current students, using their talents to strengthen my teaching…I revel in teaching courses to non-math students as well, who come to me hating math in general. Then I hopefully watch their attitude change.

My teaching goals extend beyond the classroom. Periodic outreach events in the local community have always enhanced my academic life. One of my main goals is to actively participate in, direct and create summer enrichment programs for students who otherwise wouldn’t get a chance to explore their true mathematical or scientific ability. What can be greater than kindling scientific enthusiasm in someone else?

I have received great evaluations, won teaching awards and been invited to present at numerous conferences. Of course the accolades are appreciated but they can’t compare to running into former students who tell me they were mathematically excited while in my class. I recognize these three things to be true: I need to be continually challenged and exposed to new ideas, I love mathematics and my ability to share this love is a gift demanding to be thoughtfully used, and finally, my doctorate will enable me to do the fore-mentioned two things during my career in umpteen different ways!”

Dr. Grant accepted a position on the student advisory staff at Northwestern in 2008. Although still teaching some math classes, she now had an opportunity to work with more students, one on one. This was a blessed opportunity to personally help those who were struggling, those who needed a real helping hand, those who needed a good laugh or a good cry, and those who simply needed someone to listen. She was a master at adding true compassion to the job.