Tim Ottusch was in the 2014 cohort of the GCCUT program. He completed the GCCUT program in 2016 and graduated from OSU with a Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies in 2017. He is currently an Assistant Professor of Practice at the University of Arizona. 

Q&A with Tim Ottusch

Please briefly describe your new position and responsibilities at your job.

I teach three courses a semester, oversee honors students and serve on graduate student committees. I do research on the science of teaching and learning, as well as FSHD related research. I help coordinate a few teaching related talks and programs at the University of Arizona.

 

What specific aspects of your participation in the GCCUT program impacted your job attainment process?

For one, the title gave me respect and I'm sure helped when they saw my CV. The capstone class on the teaching portfolio was very beneficial as I went to apply to a job with a high quality packet put together. This really made my teaching talks and my discussion of my teaching philosophy and the methods that I employ genuine. The coursework I had before led up to me having a clear, high quality portfolio and doing well in job interviews because I knew what I was talking about and was confident.​ 

 

In what ways has taking part in the GCCUT program changed your thinking about teaching, learning, or higher education in general?

Having an opportunity to engage with learning theory, methods, seeing other people teach, having others watch me, and knowing more about technology all was very beneficial. I approach teaching like research in other areas, where I have a purpose for what I do because I have the tools to do it.

 

Is there anything else you would add about your GCCUT experience that you think would interest prospective students?

The GCCUT program was my favorite thing about graduate school. I love the community and the opportunities to grow in an area of academia that most don't. I can't say enough how much Jessica did for me (and so many others), as well as the other faculty that invested time in us. I'm very grateful and would not have the job I have now without it. Thank you!