At Michigan I have greatly enjoyed the my opportunity to be a Graduate Student Instructor for three semesters. I have found that teaching provides me a wonderful opportunity to explain Astronomical concepts and principles, from the most basic to the more rigorous, to a wide range of students. Additionally, I have also recently had the pleasure of serving as a guest lecturer.
In Winter 2017, I served as a Guest Lecturer for Astronomy 115: Introduction to Astrobiology, taught by Prof. Chris Miller.
In Fall 2016, I served as a Guest Lecturer for Astronomy 361: Astronomical Techniques, taught by Prof. Chris Miller.
In Fall 2015, I was the GSI for Astronomy 102: Stars, Galaxies and the Universe with Prof. Keren Sharon and Prof. Mateusz Ruskowski.
In Fall 2014, I was the GSI for Astronomy 105: The Cosmos through the Constellations, with Prof. Sally Oey.
In Winter 2014, I was the GSI for Astronomy 102: Stars, Galaxies, and the Universe, with Prof. Phillip Hughes and Prof. Hugh Aller.
For both 102 and 105, I was responsible for organizing lab sessions, which primarily consisted of leading and assisting the students in lab activities ranging from identifying constellations in the planetarium to spectroscopy and stellar classification, to galaxy classification with Galaxy Zoo. For 102, I also assisted at Weekly Observing Nights at the Angell Hall Observatory.
Selected Quotes from Former Students
"Jesse was one of the best GSI's I have had here on campus. He is dedicated to helping his students, and when asked questions explained usually difficult concepts clearly. He treated every question as important, and created a very inclusive environment during Lab. Before the 2nd exam I had emailed Jesse a few conceptual questions I had, and quickly received an email back answering my questions with in-depth explanations as to the underlying concepts. Jesse's dedication to his field is obvious, and unlike many GSIs, he seemed as if he enjoyed teaching and was unbelievably patient with Undergrads. I would take another Astronomy class solely because of Jesse. "
"Jesse did a wonderful job explaining huge concepts but using language and terms to my level of understanding. "
"I enjoyed having Jesse as my GSI. He was always willing to help and explain extra if asked. "
"I really liked Jesse!!! He obviously knows a lot about astronomy and was so enthusiastic about teaching! He was very patient with students and about answering questions. "
"Jesse was amazing! Great GSI. "
"I enjoyed taking this course and Jesse did a great job teaching it. "