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People Profiles
Cora Thomas
- Hometown: Concrete, WA
- Major: Communication
- Minor: Film Studies
- Graduated: 2007
- Previous College: Skagit Valley Community College
Taking Initiative
I was a student in Carmen Werder's communication class called Survey of Rhetoric. I was compelled by her unconventional teaching style and attitude toward teaching and learning. When I found out I wouldn't be able to enroll in her Civil Controversy class that worked with the Teaching-Learning Academy (TLA), an organization that struck my interest, I decided to directly get involved and join the Academy on my own time.
A Change of Direction
Becoming a member of the Teaching-Learning Academy made my passion grow for learning and improving the environment in which students and teachers grow intellectually. My experience with TLA and Carmen has changed what direction I the direction I want my life to take. Through long conversations with her I've realized I want to work within education and continue to contribute towards teaching and learning. I've gained so much from my college experience, now I want to give back.
Presenting Research
This fall I had the opportunity to present my Teaching-Learning Academy research at a conference held at the University of Las Vegas. It was interesting to discover what research projects other Universities were working on. This experience prepared me to present my research at the Festival of Scholarship at Western in the Spring of 2008.
Outside of Class
Nature is where I find my peace and I've taken full of advantage of the rich recreational activities Bellingham offers. I also have a passion for the written word. I find that poetry has been a powerful outlet to express myself. I also have a strong attraction to story-telling of any form, whether it be film, music, or art. The story of the human condition is inspirational, emotional, and universal. The power of flickering images on screen has compelled me to minor in Film Studies. You'll find me watching a movie on a rainy day.
Favorite Memory
The incredible view at night when the city lights bounce off the water when overlooking the bay at the Performing Arts Center.