Reflection for:

Nov. 6 - Nov. 20, 2006 - Dr. Christopher J. Simenz, MS,ABD,CSCS

"Faith in Education"

To put into words the role of faith in my position at Marquette may appear challenging from the perspective of a health scientist.  In many areas, the role of the scientist is antithetical to that of the faith-based educator.  However, faith plays a central role in all I do, and the Jesuit focus on cura personalis is a model that, as an educator, I embrace.  This distinction provides for me the difference between a faith-based Vocation and a job devoid of these elements.  Students attend Marquette University for a variety of reasons and receive many benefits not common to other institutions.  Foremost among these in my mind is the sense of caring and interest in the life of each student, regardless of her or his success in my classroom.  My faith directs me to care for each of these students and to ensure that, whatever else I may teach them, I do my best to help each grow as a human being.  Whether a student has academic or personal issues, needs structure or just a kind word to boost her or his confidence, I am blessed to be in the position to offer assistance.  Getting to know each of my students both inside the classroom and personally is a large task, but is a labor of love that pays large dividends.

Caring for each student extends beyond personal attention and into the professional realm.  Due in large part to my faith, I feel it is the duty of every student in my program to become a compassionate caregiver who empathizes with every client he or she encounters, even in situations where it is difficult to do so.  For instance, offering wellness instruction and advice to a client who is clearly not interested in improving her or his health and wellness can be challenging.  Essential then is the idea that students and budding professionals in the area of health and wellness withhold judgment of their client’s motivations and physical state, but rather connect with that client on some level and offer assistance in any way possible to improve her or his quality of life.  Also critical to this process is the utilization of Marquette’s many programs such as Service Learning to allow students to put these skills into practice for the benefit of the larger community, while building a habit of helping others.  By modeling caring behaviors and ethical practices encompassed in this philosophy, my faith has allowed me to provide an example for my students, and I have watched with joy as many have become skilled and caring professionals. 

There is nothing more rewarding for me than positively impacting the lives of others.  Teaching students to care for themselves and others is my calling, and it is remarkable to practice in a university environment that facilitates the growth of conscientious, caring human beings.

Sincerely,


Christopher J Simenz

Clinical Assistant Professor

Program in Exercise Science

Department of Physical Therapy

Marquette University

 

“There is nothing more rewarding for me than positively impacting the lives of others.  Teaching students to care for themselves and others is my calling, and it is remarkable to practice in a university environment that facilitates the growth of conscientious, caring human beings."

Christopher J Simenz
Clinical Assistant Professor
Program in Exercise Science
Department of Physical Therapy

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