spotlight on honors

university honors program: faculty

Dr. jay gatrell

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Ph.D, Geography, West Virginia University, 1999

M.A., Geography, The University of Toledo, 1996

B.S. Political Science, Eastern Michigan University, 1994

RESEARCH INTERESTS

“My research interests focus primarily on applied economic geography (including public policy) and the investigation of the socio-spatial dynamics of cities using geo-technologies. In addition to these research initiatives, I work closely with students on a range of projects that emphasize economic development, public policy, and GIScience methods.”

HONORS BEGINNINGS

Dr. Gatrell had many positive experiences as an undergraduate Honors student. He says, “As an undergraduate, I was able to participate in the honors program at Eastern Michigan University. One of the most rewarding experiences was participating in the UHP research showcase. The showcase was my first experience with presenting academic research and fueled my interest in pursuing graduate studies.” His positive view of Honors programs is well-sustained at ISU.

He gladly accepted an offer to teach Honors courses at ISU because he appreciates what motivated, intelligent students bring to the classroom.

"I had always wanted to teach the honors course as it allows professors to work with motivated, curious, and excited learners. So, when it was suggested I consider teaching an honors course, I enthusiastically said yes." - Dr. Gatrell

TYPICAL CLASSES TAUGHT

Dr. Gatrell has taught a GH301 course on Anglo-North America in the past, and he very enthusiastically encourages students to convert his regularly offered courses for Honors credit.

Dr. Gatrell describes one of his best experiences teaching Honors students below:

“In fall 2007, I took a group of honors students to Milwaukee--yes Milwaukee--and we had the opportunity to work with a professor from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee on neighborhood change and gentrification issues. Additionally, the students went geocaching, visited the local museums and toured university campuses. Because none of the students had been to Milwaukee, everyone was able to explore and experience it for the first time and it was exciting to see the students use the skills developed in the course (i.e., mapping, GPS, etc...) to understand it's unique urban geography. Finally--perhaps to the dismay of some students--no fast food or chain restaurants. But, the students realized (eventually) that by visiting local restaurants (dives really) we were able to experience neighborhoods from a new perspective.”

ADVICE TO HONORS STUDENTS

“College is only 4 (or 5) years so take the opportunity to learn as much as you can about as many subjects and places possible. Indeed, you never know what opportunity will prove to be transformational...and I speak from experience. If I had never taken urban geography, I'd probably be a lawyer today. “ - Dr. Gatrell