Profile - Mary Bodelson

Mary Bodelson teaching

Instructor Profile

Meet Mary Bodelson
Instructor of English

Master of Arts (MA) in TESOL, Saint Cloud State University; Master of Arts (MA) in Rhetoric and Applied Writing, Saint Cloud State University; Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English Literature, Saint Cloud State University

Question and Answer

  • Question

    Would you list some recent accomplishments?

    Answer

    • Nominee Board of Trustees Educator of the Year 2016
    • The Fifth Biennial International Feminism and Rhetoric Conference- Houghton, MI Conference Presentation: “Introducing Feminist Pedagogy to College Composition Through Personal Writing, Argument, and Peer Review” 2005
    • Thesis: Integrating Feminist Pedagogy into the Composition Classroom

  • Question

    What is your approach to teaching?

    Answer

    I believe in fostering a sense of community in the classroom; this leads to student comfort and understanding of concepts regardless of the type of obstacle the student may be facing. I am able to adapt my teaching style to assist various students in their specific areas of struggle.

  • Question

    What inspires you as a teacher?

    Answer

    My students and their desire to learn are my major inspiration. Their willingness to work hard regardless of obstacles or challenging material inspires me to create a classroom that fosters their commitment to education.

  • Question

    How would you describe what happens during one of your most successful classes?

    Answer

    My most successful classes are ones where students get involved and volunteer what they think about an issue being discussed. Every semester we do in class debates on very controversial topics, and I am always so pleased with my students' willingness to offer what they think about an issue, but also truly listen to what others have to say about that issue even if they disagree.

  • Question

    What makes your curriculum interesting or valuable to students?

    Answer

    I try to stay relevant in my teacher so that my students can feel a connection to the readings, films, etc. For example, we do a film review, and students are able to choose their own film to review. For the major argumentative research paper, we have in class debates on current controversial issues, like abortion, legalization of marijuana and gun control.

  • Question

    How do you think students describe your teaching methods and classes?

    Answer

    They would say she is challenging when it comes to grading, but she is willing to help if you are willing to seek out her help. I also think they would say there are fun activities in the class, but everything she does is connected back to skills she is trying to help us develop.

  • Question

    What are some ways that you help students succeed when they need extra help?

    Answer

    I have face to face conferences where I meet with students one on one to discuss their writing in terms of improving it. I also am the Writing Center Liaison, so I encourage students to utilize the great services we offer there.

  • Question

    How do you help your students get the most out of your class?

    Answer

    I try to always make sure to explain why we are doing what we are doing, so that they know there is a purpose behind it. So, when the eye rolls come, I can help them understand that it is a necessary activity.

Fun Facts

  • Fun Fact #1

    I have an identical twin sister - we sound EXACTLY the same. Our husbands cannot tell our voices apart on the phone.

  • Fun Fact #2

    I'm obsessed with television shows - all genres. My husband and I binge watch shows constantly.

  • Fun Fact #3

    My husband's obsession with the British Premier League has made me a huge fan of Arsenal - the Gunners.

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