Teaching Experience

I recently taught Engineering Probability and Statistics and Engineering Economics Analysis for the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department at the University of Utah.

In the statistics course, we incorporated many real-world examples to learn concepts such as hypothesis testing and empirical models. I also designed a semester project, which guided students through the process of selecting data, formulating a question, and identifying and applying appropriate statistical analyses.

In economics, we focused on preparing students for the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam by mastering basics like compound interest, present/future worth and equivalent uniform worth analysis. We also practiced evaluating alternatives and discussed private vs. public sector economic considerations. Throughout the course, we discussed relevant local and national examples in order to give context and relate concepts from class to the real world.

Currently, I am teaching an introductory informatics course, called Computer Tools, which covers advanced spreadsheet techniques (including Macros and VBA programming), database fundamentals (using SQLite) and why civil engineers should be thinking about building information modeling (BIM).

As a PhD student, I had the opportunity to help teach a unique, multi-university course for graduate students called Hydroinformatics. This course introduced database creation and management principles, and helped students develop programming skills in both R and Python. I created and delivered a module on R programming and R Shiny application development to students in person and through distance-learning methods. This module included lessons and activities for:

• programming basics
• using, developing, and sharing packages
• creating and publishing Shiny applications
• using R with version control (GitHub)

As a PhD student, I participated in first cohort of the University of Utah's STEM Ambassador Program. The goal of this program is to bring our science outside of traditional learning environments to reach members of our community who otherwise may not be aware of or familiar with the work we are doing. Through this program, I was able to share my work with satellite remote sensing of algal blooms to a senior center. I tried to make the concepts personal and relevant to an audience that greatly appreciates records and memories: the satellite record helps us keep a history and tells the story of our water resources.

I also had the opportunity to meet with high school students who came to Utah as refugees or are the children of refugees. We had fun doing hands-on demos showcasing fun parts of sustainable urban water engineering with porous pavement and mini watersheds.

I have also previously served as a director for online communication with the Utah Women of Water and currently serve as an outreach director. While in this position, I have helped link younger members of the group with mentors and hosted a "speed networking" event to help facilitate conversations between members at various stages of their careers.