Yancy Cruz-Virella | SIU

I have conducted research and publications in areas of chronic morbidly obese, dialysis and kidney transplant patients, multiculturalism and academic advising in the rehabilitation counseling field. I am interested in developing other research topics such as employment of people with disabilities, mental health crisis management, multiculturalism and program evaluation in the rehabilitation counseling field and related areas. Currently, I am developing the design to conduct two research mixed methods. The first research is analyzing and evaluating the experiences of persons with a kidney transplant that have more than ten years. The second research will evaluate dialysis treatment patients with more than ten years. Also, I am interested in developing research including persons with severe disabilities that have maintained a long-term employment, mentoring, support to first generation of students, minority and non-traditional students.

As a faculty member I bring a dynamic and creative perspective to the classroom, including my experiences in the non for profit, private and higher education settings. I have experience teaching in undergraduate and graduate level. As a professor it is very important for me to use a combination of tools to enhance the learning experience using the textbook required and supporting educational materials as articles, websites and immerse real life experiences.

Second, at the beginning of each course I like to ask the student about their expectations in the course, their academic goals and future interests to strategically combine the syllabus content with any additional guest speaker or supplement information.

Third, I promote and maintain a continuous and open communication with my students. During class I promote an environment with respect, openness, honesty, ethics and professionalism in the classroom or through virtual platforms.

Fourth, I believe in the importance of being available face to face (even through a facetime call or any meeting platform available), phone calls or emails.

Fifth, as a teacher I attempt to engage, challenge, and inspire growth in my students. Every student its important in my course and I believe in their contributions.