As college students, we can tend to forget about how much our professors do for us. Professors are the ones who help light the path toward your dream career; without them, we may have more difficulty getting there. An anonymous survey was sent out to encourage students to answer  what professor inspired them and encouraged them to work towards a greater goal.

Hazlett’s students had much to say about his teaching style and why they admired him. Multiple students wrote that he helped them find their voice in writing. They also noted that his class is constantly engaging and “makes learning fun.” Hazlett’s approach to teaching has touched many students with his critical thinking style and fun ways of participation.

Students were asked what about his teaching inspired them, and students responded with, “the energy, keeping me engaged, and proving to myself that I have the confidence to write.” Another responded, describing Hazlett’s class as a “non-traditional approach to thinking, feeling and writing.”

Hofman teaches communications classes at COCC. But he is not only a professor but a professional magician on the side as well. Hofman’s students said, “his class inspired me to use my ability to reach people in more direct ways.” His students also said that he opened their eyes to the true nature of public speaking, which is exciting and an adrenaline rush. One of his students even noted that Hofman’s class inspired them to pursue more in the public speaking world outside of school.

“Thank you for illustrating to me the beauty of public speaking to its perfection,” said an anonymous student.

Professor Hofman’s class has been described as “enjoyable,” “interactive” and an unexpected favorite. Students tend to assume public speaking to be very nerve-racking, however, Hofman demonstrated that it is an important life skill to have under their belt. When performing magic on stage, he is ironically referred to as, “the professor.”

Michalski teaches a variety of forestry classes like principles of wildlife conservation, wildlife ecology and survey of Northwest wildlife. Michalski teaches his classes with enthusiasm and includes personal connections in his lessons. His past students described his class as “a perfect morning class with an enthusiastic professor that will have open and honest conversations with all the students,” as said by an anonymous student.

Students were asked; “What would you say to this professor if you were to write a review on why you chose them as an inspiration?” 

One student responded with, “keep up what you’re already doing. It’s a perfect blend of conversation, information and new topics.” Michalski’s students said that the information they gained from his class would help them in their future careers and newfound interests in wildlife.