Q&A: A look at CCC, ENMU first weeks

Local institutions of higher education began classes for their spring semester this past week. Both Eastern New Mexico University and Clovis Community College will hold some in-person classes as well as continue with many online classes.

Professors at both entities weighed in on the complexities of teaching during a pandemic and returning to their in-person classes. Students approached by The News declined interview requests.

Question: How do you feel about how the college campus has changed in the past year? What do you hope to see happen this semester with students returning to campus?

Shawna McGill, director for CCC’s nursing program: “I am very proud of our college and all the employees. Everyone has stepped up to the plate and have went above and beyond to ensure that our students are successful. I see that we are doing that again this semester. I would love to be able to bring students back on campus sometime during the semester.”

Melissa Reed, business professor, CCC: “I think as an institution we have grown and innovated over the last year. It was difficult, but as a team we are getting through it and I could not be more proud of the efforts that have been put forward.”

Chelsea Starr, associate professor of sociology, ENMU: “We’ve been challenged to move traditional classes online, especially science labs and math classes, and the faculty have done a terrific job meeting those challenges given the circumstances. The students have also risen to the occasion, and have done very well despite the disruption. I hope that the students who are returning to campus will find a safe and engaging place to continue their studies.”

Question: Do you have any concerns in regards to returning to an in-person setting — or with continuing virtual classes?

McGill: “I really do not have any concerns. My only concern would be that our student numbers in the classroom setting might not be as larger as they have been in the past and we might have to rearrange schedules to accommodate the numbers.”

Reed: “I cannot wait to get back in the classroom and work face to face with my students again. Virtual classes are a helpful substitute but nothing beats that in person feeling.”

Starr: “I think we all have concerns, but we’ve taken steps to socially distance classrooms and check everyone for symptoms before they enter campus buildings. I know that some of the buildings have even changed to more effective filters in the air conditioning to better filter the air. The administration, faculty, and students are all working hard to maintain a safe environment. I think as vaccinations ramp up people may start to feel more comfortable in the university setting.”

Question: For you, what has been the biggest takeaway from working in a college setting throughout the pandemic?

McGill: “I think one of the biggest takeaways has been that we are really implementing more technology, and realizing that there is a place for technology more than we were using. While I do feel that face to face and hands on is the best for allied health students, we have used simulation more and have seen that we will probably increase the use of simulation within our programs more in the future.”

Reed: “I teach my students that businesses must constantly change, innovate and adapt. And they experience those business strategies first hand, as students, these past few semesters. I think the experience will serve them well as they embark on their careers.”

Starr: “I think we can be proud of the level of cooperation between administration, faculty, and students during a truly difficult time. It shows that people can work together in a crisis, and adapt in ways that make continued student success possible.”