Kristen Conway-Gómez, Ph.D.

As a student I was fortunate to have strong mentors along the way, who pushed me to challenge the limits of my understanding – of geography and natural resource use and conservation – as well as what I might accomplish with such understanding. Through the mentoring of Dr. Edward Malecki I came to appreciate the value of theory and lineage in geography, particularly as it relates to development of academic work. In my own teaching I strive to share with my students the value of placing information within a geographic context. Dr. Charles Wood guided my writing through example and constructive criticism – qualities I try to emulate in my own interactions with students through their academic journeys. Dr. J. Parren Ross repeatedly demonstrated his confidence in my ability to forge new paths of knowledge for myself in herpetology, specifically turtle biology. Dr. Ross’ consistent recognition of my ability gave me the confidence to open new doors for myself. It is my hope that some day a student of mine will be able to say the same of me.

In acknowledgement of the mentoring gifts I was offered I strive to provide mentoring to my students. I am eager to work with students to help reach new levels of awareness and confidence in their abilities as geographers and humans.  I set high standards for each individual based on what I understand to be their particular strengths.  In turn I have high expectations of each individual I work with.  I hope to guide students to increased understanding of geographic thought and share with them my enthusiasm for the discipline,  especially field work in Latin America and wildlife conservation, through work together.