Urszula Pasterkiewicz, recipient of the Amit and Meena Chakma Award for Exceptional Teaching by a Student, 2022
Urszula Pasterkiewicz, School of Public Health Sciences
Urszula Pasterkiewicz, a PhD student in Public Health Sciences, has left a lasting impact on her students and colleagues.聽 She has designed a course called HLTH 373: Design Your Future that focuses on growth mindset, resiliency, and neuroplasticity with the implementation of student-centered learning practices and goal-oriented strategies.聽 The course design was inspired by her thesis research in fostering resilience and improving mental health in young adults. A number of students emphasized Urszula鈥檚 ability to provide clarification in a format that is easily understood. She always checks up on those needing academic or mental health support, and her course has been described as a transformative and enjoyable experience.聽 She is seen as a supportive and enthusiastic teacher that always makes sure students鈥 needs are met and that their mental health is prioritized.聽 A student states, she is 鈥渢he very first professor who has invested so much time in considering students鈥 health and well-being.鈥澛 Another student says, she is 鈥渁lways open to listening to our input and giving us constructive criticism and encouragement to put out the best work.鈥
Urszula has held a teaching position for HLTH 373, HLTH 273, HLTH 340, and HLTH 320.