2015 Outstanding University Teacher Award Winner, Tenure Track
John. C Kostelnick, Ph.D.
- Ph.D. in Geography, University of Kansas (2006)
- Associate Professor, Department of Geography and Geology
Teaching Philosophy
More than anything, I hope that students will find appreciation for the relevance of geography in their lives, and they will leave the classroom with a passion to use what they have learned for the betterment of society.
The most rewarding aspect of teaching
Seeing students succeed. Success has different meaning for different students, but it’s a great sense of satisfaction to see them reach their goal for success.
Three most valuable approaches that I bring to my teaching practice
1) Passion for the material
2) Challenging students to rise up and meet my high expectations
3) Willingness to work with students one-on-one and mentor students individually.
Most challenging aspect of teaching
Keeping up on my discipline, which changes very rapidly. I keep up by staying active in my profession at many levels, from academic conference to happenings in government and the private sector as well.
Proudest teaching accomplishment
Any time a student (past or present) is awarded a scholarship/fellowship, is accepted into a prestigious graduate school, or lands a dream internship or job.
