My mentor’s twitter handle is @FancyScientist, and she most certainly lives up to the moniker! Here’s proof!
Even on her latest expedition, hiking to the top of Mount Kenya, Dr. Stephanie Schuttler, always looked her best!
But that only accounts for the “Fancy” part of her handle. The other half is “Scientist.” Though I may have learned a few fashion tips during my internship, I learned a LOT about @FancyScientist’s research, and it is fascinating – especially the way she hooks us with stories about her adventures, then sneaks in a few facts and figures without us even realizing it!
This is a great instructional strategy that works well with teachers – and 7th graders, too! As part of the introduction to eMammal, I shared several videos starring Dr. Schuttler – including the infamous Fox Video – the kids now feel connected and vested in the project, because they know they are helping Dr. Schuttler, the person, with her research. She didn’t even need to be physically present to build relationships; she accomplished it through videography!
During our first lesson, we were struggling with the meaning of the term “ultradian.” We had googled and read several definitions, but we were still unclear about its meaning. That’s when I decided to text Stephanie for help. The students were astounded when she responded within minutes! They were even more amazed when she responded again moments later explaining that WE had peaked HER interest and sharing a link with more information that she had just discovered on the topic. Come to find out, human babies are ultradian – “they nap, but don’t have a regular sleep pattern…” This certainly describes my 6 month-old granddaughter, Kylie!
I am GRATEFUL for the professional relationship I have established with my mentor, Dr. Schuttler. I am HOPEFUL to continue my friendship with Stephanie, far beyond my Kenan Fellowship. I am CURIOUS about what her future holds, and I can’t wait to hear about her next adventure, whatever it might be 🙂