TO THE EDITOR:
My Interdisciplinary Studies 195 class had an engaging discussion with an incredible professor, one of whom I have been fortunate enough to have for two previous classes.
He walked into a room of undergraduates and boldly stated that college is not the time for research; it can really only be undertaken once a student commands a sufficient mastery of a subject.
We then had an energetic back-and-forth about the value of undergraduate research. It was by far the best class we’ve had; our TA even sent out an email telling us as much. What struck me, however, was the fact that this brilliant, inspiring professor will be leaving UNC after this fall.
While his idea of the purpose of an undergraduate education — to foster intellectual conversation and create educated citizens — may seem antiquated or idealistic, it is a noble goal, one that should be considered against UNC’s apparent aim: to churn out students who are marketable in vocational capacities, be it laboratories or businesses.
While, yes, undergraduate research strengthens the bond between students and faculty, I don’t think that professors who build this kind of relationship with students in the classroom should be penalized when their publications aren’t quite as prolific as rabbits.
This professor changed me — the books I choose to read, how I form opinions, the way I frame arguments.
He is an exemplary instructor and mentor, and it’s a shame that UNC’s focus on research means losing out on extraordinary teachers.
Emma Johnson ’13
Biostatistics
