spotlight on honors

Dr. Catherine 'Cat' Paterson is an Associate Professor of Athletic Training and a Faculty Fellow in the Center for Public Service and Community Engagement. Dr. Paterson joined the Indiana State University faculty in 1998. She served as the Director of the Undergraduate Athletic Training Education program from 1999-2009.

RESEARCH INTERESTS

My research interests include investigating teaching and learning behaviors. Currently she and a group of students are determining the efficacy of preventative education on Methycillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) among athletes.

TYPICAL CLASSES TAUGHT

I typically teach honors conversion classes within Athletic Training. I think the most memorable experience I have had with Honors students was when I chaperoned a group to Chicago to the Museum of Science and Technology. We visited a special anatomical exhibit on plasticized human bodies, many of which were positioned in athletic stances. The practical, ethical and social discussions about human tissue donation that were stirred were insightful and led to many of us to consider becoming a donor.

ADVICE TO HONORS STUDENTS

Take seriously and be comfortable with the impact you have on the ISU, Terre Haute and Wabash Valley communities. Seek the advice of each faculty member who teaches or advises you to determine how you can encourage positive outcomes or affect change with your knowledge, skill and ability. Find opportunities to apply what you are learning to issues, events or problems. In other words, make your learning real to you and the people around you.

Image: two students and I while teaching a lab on forearm casting.