Pedagogy and Teaching
HUMAN-CENTERED AND TRAUMA-INFORMED
Never having considered myself an educator, I arrived to my doctoral program with the purpose and intention of researching sexual violence and intersectionality studies. Through my role as a body of labor for the institution and my fortune of being pedagogically mentored by critical Professors I respect, admire, and appreciate, I quickly fell in love with teaching. As a teaching assistant and eventual instructor of record, more and more I realized my years of prior experience planning and leading travel groups abroad had prepared me to thrive in the classroom setting. I am passionate about conceptualizing new courses and revamping existing courses, embracing both practices as opportunities to meet students and the progression of my own research where we are in timely and innovative ways.
Within and beyond the classroom, my teaching philosophy remains steadfast in making every effort to ensure my approaches to scholarly contributions, engagement with anti-violence organizations, and especially to educating students remain collaborative, human-centered, and trauma-informed. I excel in mentoring students who are passionate about a particular social issue(s), informed by their own lived experience in relation to it, and driven by a sincere interest in humanities-based approaches to creating social change. Interested in the meeting points between theory and practice, as societal events and lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to exacerbate the ongoing urgency of dismantling intersecting systems of oppression from every possible angle, I have learned students are very much in need of individualized and collective forms of attention that consider them entire, complex human beings. In addition to focusing on papers, projects, and course assignments, I attempt to help keep front and center the importance of personal wellbeing and access to university and community-based resources. Life challenges can motivate or demotivate us all depending on the day. I am intellectually, politically, and personally interested in meeting students where they are in their educational journey. I am committed to figuring out ways in which I might help students continue to accomplish their intellectual goals, no matter their discipline or industry, and often in spite of it all.
CURRENTLY.
VISITING INSTRUCTOR | FALL 2023
OCCIDENTAL COLLEGE | CRITICAL THEORY & SOCIAL JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
CTSJ 120
POWER, POLITICS, & SOCIAL CHANGE
CTSJ 140
CRITICAL THEORIES OF GENDER AND SEXUALITY
TEACHING ASSISTANT | FALL 2023
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ANNENBERG SCHOOL FOR COMMUNICATION AND JOURNALISM
CMGT 540
USES OF COMMUNICATION RESEARCH
COMING UP.
VISITING INSTRUCTOR | SPRING 2024
OCCIDENTAL COLLEGE | CRITICAL THEORY & SOCIAL JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
FYS 64
MEDIA, VIOLENCE, & TRANSFORMATIVE JUSTICE
CTSJ 220
INTERSECTIONALITY THEORY & COMMUNITY-BASED PRAXIS
PREVIOUSLY.
CTSJ 160: INTRODUCTION TO FEMINIST STUDIES
VISITING INSTRUCTOR | SPRING 2023
COMMUNITY OF STUDENTS: 24
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Excited to join the Occidental community and teach a course within the Critical Theory and Social Justice department, Introduction to Feminist Studies was an introductory course designed to help students across disciplines apply a critical multidisciplinary intersectional lens to constructions of gender, sexuality, and feminism(s) at the interpersonal, public, and cultural levels of society. Together we centered cultural studies, indigenous studies, intersectionality studies, gender and sexuality studies, violence and trauma studies, transnational studies, and more to analyze the complexities of power dynamics informing historical and contemporary forms of feminist activism. We assessed and critically engaged gendered dominant cultural narratives and counter-narratives working to reinforce and/or resist binary conceptualizations of femininity and masculinity in society. Through abbreviated and participatory lectures, active discussion-based engagement, and student leadership opportunities, this course was conducted in the spirit of collaboration, with mutual learning in mind. The aim of this course was to tap into the critical feminist scholar activist within each student, prompting scholars to embrace the importance of feminist advocacy related to timely social issues that matter most to them. This course sought to equip students with a deeper theoretical and applied understanding of feminist studies informing how to exist in the world, how to communicate, how to push back, how to survive, and how to carry forward in ways that advance feminist thought.
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I expected the course to give breadth to my understanding of feminist lenses, and it did. I expected it to test my patience at times, because that was my experience in similar activist oriented Oxy classes. This class was such an open space where you could actually feel the learning grow in the room. I think everyone will leave this class radically transformed even if they didn’t realize it was happening and that’s what I want to do with my life, I just wasn’t sure it could be done.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“This course significantly influenced and shaped my understanding of feminism and feminist studies. I really appreciated the intersectional lens that this course was carefully shaped through and how responsive and adaptable my professor was when my fellow peers and I brought up things that interested us but potentially weren’t in the syllabus; she was able to incorporate our interests along with the readings and themes she had in mind. I feel like I am leaving this class with a well-rounded understanding and interpretation of feminism and feminist studies which is a big change from when I walked in the class because I probably could not have given a good definition of what feminism was or what it means to me.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I expected to expand on my capacity to talk in and lead discussion as well as get more comfortable expressing my thoughts. In the beginning of the semester, we set class norms/rules that I think really impacted me and my comfort levels in this course, as well as pushed me to continue to develop those skills and capacities. Professor Dobson was very intentional about building a safe, brave, and comfortable classroom space and a community among the class in the beginning of the semester and it really paid off as we went through the semester together.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I think that discussion facilitation, group collaboration, lectures, homework assignments, and class activities were particularly effective. In looking for ways to make our class feel more like a community and less like our readings and assignments were busy work, one of my favorite aspects of this course was our private Instagram where we posted weekly reflections on the reading and were able to interact and read other peers thoughts on a different channel than the usual discussion boards. Her innovativeness, while keeping the same level of academic expectations, was very valuable and enhanced my experience in the course greatly.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“In the beginning of the semester, we focused on class bonding activities and setting class norms; she let us define how we want and will best benefit from this space and this class and we used that as a guide to have a successful semester of learning while in an inclusive learning environment. I’m not sure that some of our discussions would have been as fruitful without this groundwork at the beginning, and I would not have been as willing or wanting to share in class as much as I did without this.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“She went above and beyond to connect with each person in the class, showing her desire to get to know us both in and outside of the classroom. She attended athletic events, club demonstrations, quad fairs, plays, and so much more in order to support and celebrate us in our endeavors. She was understanding of the toll college life can take on students and showed a genuine interest and care in all of us that was extremely appreciated and well-received throughout the class.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“Course was very inclusive and professor Dobson went above and beyond to ensure the success and comfort of all students regardless of background.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“Professor Dobson comes very prepared for class and her passion for teaching is evident. She goes above and beyond her duties as a professor to ensure the academic success and well being of her students. Makes huge effort to get to know students on a personal level beyond classroom.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I would describe my level of engagement as high – because the discussions Professor Dobson prompted were so deeply interesting and perspective-shifting.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“This course changed my understanding of feminism as something expansive, intersectional, and a guiding ideology in life. Feminism can be applied to all aspects of politics – from everyday life to the prison industrial complex. Because of this class, it will go on to shape how I move about the world.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“This course was instrumental in changing my perceptions of what “feminist theory” looked and felt like. We read incredible scholars and authors I had never heard of that I will never forget. expected to gain a more authentic understanding of feminist theory as well as to strengthen my skills as a writer, and I think this course really helped me develop these capacities.“
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I think the balance of lectures and discussions was perfect, as we were guided through dense theoretical texts and also asked to connect different geneologies of feminism through our own critical thinking.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I loved the student lead teachings! It allowed everyone to have a moment of both attention and reflection, and was a great way to destabalize the power dynamics inherent in classroom teaching.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I LOVE Caitlin! She is extremely thoughtful, insanely intelligent, and really good at connecting with her students. Teachers honestly make or break courses, and she made this one:)”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“Gave me a new perspective on feminism that I never really was exposed too, especially with the array of readings that come from WOC.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“Professor Dobson was able to curate a space that was safe and comfortable for anyone. As a student of color, she was able to give me the representation that I’ve been missing my whole life when it comes to feminism. Moreover, being in a predominantly white classroom setting, I felt seen by her, as she was able to teach other students on the experiences that I and others have faced being a women of color.“
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I didn’t know what to expect for this class. I thought it was going to be about white feminism, but this class gave me hope for the future of how feminism can be taught and instilled within the education system.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“This course did a great job of shaping my understanding of feminism. I came into this course with very little knowledge on the topic, so taking this course really helped me a lot. The lectures were always very engaging and interesting, which made it a lot easier to take in the material.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I really like how our professor made the material engaging by always having different activities for us to do, having us speak with groups, and having students lead the class. I feel like incorporating aspects like this into the course makes it a lot more fun and easy to engage in the material.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“Our professor did a really great job and creating an inclusive learning environment. She always made sure that everyone had access to everything they needed, and if they didn’t she always made sure to find ways to help. Our professor also made everyone in the class feel like they belonged because of her positive and understanding attitude.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I was influenced to think different about gender, sexuality, and so much more. In a broader scope of my Oxy career I was influenced and helped to understand how important intersectionality was in feminist studies.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I expected to gain understanding of the material and learn to discuss and thoughtfully read assignments and form close connections with my peers and professor which I did. I know that the skills and capacities that I learned through this course will carry through in my career and the extent of which I learned to form connections was good. This class often felt like a safe place and Caitlin was very good at facilitation community and good discussions.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“This course allowed me to expand my view of feminism. I learned how to be a critical learner using texts, videos and many other mediums to understand what forms of feminism exist in our society. This course has given me a foundation to critically analyze the world around me using various lenses.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I expected to learn how to enhance my writing strategies and analyze texts. This course helped me because our Professor asked us to focus on The Who the author is, who the writing is intended for and not just about the content which is what most professors and teachers prior have asked students to focus on. We wrote a paper and did weekly reflections that we shared with the class to analyze anything from class materials from each week.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“Most effective were the discussions because I could learn from my peers interpretations and understandings of the reading in addition to their life experiences. I also enjoyed the smaller group discussions which felt less intimidating as well as lectures because they were always so interactive.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“What helped create a safe space for me in this classroom was establishing our norms at the start of the semester. I also think people sharing vulnerable stories and going around every now and then to hear about people’s lives and how they are arriving into the class for that day would allow us to move forward into discussions and class more smoothly.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I think this class should be a part of a core requirement. Not only does it allow people to critically analyze the world around them but we look at texts from various different authors and people of all races, sexuality, classes. My only other suggestion would be to do more small group discussions and a few more activity based classes.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I am so thankful for being able to take this course with you! The readings you selected were all informative and I appreciate the foundation of feminist you have given me. I know I will take the tree model with me to analyze violence and our institutions. Hopefully I am able to take another class with you in the future!”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I engaged in this class with group discussions, readings, leading a lesson, writing weekly reflections and doing creative projects and an essay. While this sounds like a lot of work it was facilitated in a way that allowed enjoyment of the process.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“This class helped me grasp a greater understanding for feminism within intersectionality rather than a neo liberal white women’s feminism. It also taught me the power of restorative justice and how you cant drive out pain with pain. Finally, it allowed me to see how classroom spaces can be a space that not just talks about mental health and caring for one another but actually practices it. It has completely transformed the way I see teaching as a safe place to build a community of learners. No other class is like this one except for my class with Prof. Trochez.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I expected to learn more about feminism but I have gained so much more than this. I have learn how feminism is deeply intertwined with all aspects of life and is a foundational key to equality and the quality of life for everyone. We learned how the teachings of masculinity play a key factor in the oppression of women as-well. A lot of practices within feminism are beneficial to the livelihood of everyone.‘
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I have found the community from group conversations the most fulfilling. Before this class, I had never experienced learning that highly valued the individual and fostering an environment that cared so deeply. I feel motivated to engage our text and movies for the sake of enrichment rather than a grade. In terms of readings, I found Audre Lorde’s Uses of the Erotic: The Erotic as Power, the most inspiring. It gave me a new perspective on living unashamed and the text was understandable and approachable. I find it inspiring that you teach in a way that is authentic to the material we learn about. She not only give us wonderful texts but also show us a better way to live through your own actions.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I recommend that this class is taught every semester. Everything was geared towards an inclusive environment. I especially love that everyone taught a class because it made us more comfortable with each-other. I also loves that we didn’t have any exams and our assignments were geared towards enrichment of ideas. I recommend you include ‘Principles of Pleasure’ in the syllabus when we are talking about the porn industry and sex as means to liberate yourself. I also recommend ‘reading groups’ to hold each-other accountable for our outside reading and screenings.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I feel very engaged in this course. The readings were very interesting and we had a lot of passionate people in this course making the discussions very fun, entertaining, and open to everyone.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“This course changed my definition of feminism and social activism. It taught me so so much. It also helped me learn a lot about myself as a person and as a woman.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I took this class because I have always considered myself to be a feminist, but had never learned about what that means in an academic space and thought it would be interesting and important to do. I was very right, this class taught me more about both myself and the topic than any other course I have ever taken.
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“My professor did an amazing job at, as she would say, “co-creating” a safe space where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas, opinions, and experiences. This community that was formed is something that really shaped this class. The subject matter of this course can be very sensitive, but my professor set up the class in a way where we were able to lean into the uncomfortably in order to learn and make progress.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I feel very grateful to have been able to take this course and get to know this professor, I would recommend it to everyone. I have never felt more supported and understood by a professor.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I was very much engaged every single class this semester. I completely and fully felt into each lesson. I felt so comfortable with my professor as well as my peers. I felt motivated to do my work. It was truly such an enjoyable class.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“This course completely and forever changed my view of the world. It sharpened by broad understanding of feminism to a point. I feel so much more educated and well rounded on the topic. I now look at most things in life through a feminist lens and will catch myself evaluating what feminist lens is most prevalent in random things.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I did not know what to expect when taking this course. However, I gained so many skills and capacities. I improved my reading comprehension greatly as well as my motivation for reading scholarly texts. I became much more comfortable with speaking my mind, especially to professors. It increased my already sizable passion for activism and feminism.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“The discussion based classes were incredible. I learned so much not only from my professor, but also from my peers. The collaborative nature of the class was incredible and made the environment so learning friendly. Not only did my professor make the subjects of the class easy to digest and understand, but she made it so interesting and captivating. I never have had such fun in a class, especially a class that tackles very serious issues. My professor did an amazing job with handling hard topics. I feel that every person in the class contributed to the success of the course.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“The instruction fostered a very inclusive learning environment. The class was 100% a collaborative effort. We all worked together to learn as much as we could about feminism. We all are very respectful of one another and each other’s identities. The class environment welcomed and encouraged everyone to be themselves and to share their opinions. I felt so welcome in the class. The compassion that our professor demonstrated made the class even more welcoming and loving. It was such a safe environment to discuss hard topics and issues.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I wish the class was longer!”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“The professor truly shaped me into a better activist. Professor Dobson did an amazing job. I never thought I would miss going to a class, but I truly will miss this class.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“WOW. It honestly was mind-blowing for me, as someone who has always considered myself a feminist. I really relearned what the topic means, and how it is incredibly flawed. While I still consider myself a diehard feminist, I will one hundred percent take the term with a grain of salt.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“This course was very engaging. I did work with peers and Dobson sometimes outside of the classroom. I did come to class prepared and felt the support was solid within the classroom. This course has entirely altered my vision of feminism, and also my major. This has allowed me to grow so much, not just academically, and grow my understanding of what feminism is. The wide range of scholars and discussions we had was so broad and so immersive. I was hoping to have a better understanding of intersectonailty, which was reached. I was also hoping to guide some of my personal goals and decisions regarding my major and work after college, all were reached.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“The slide shows, and discussions, mid term, final project, were all very engaging and effective. The classroom was an open envoirment where I felt like issues could be voiced and learning was inclusive. I do think moving forward attempting to move past slideshows, although sometimes needed, would be good. Dobson did an amazing job bringing in activities. I think this can be encouraged outside the professor with student presentations.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“Dobson is so kind and made it so clear they care about our lives not just how we succeed in the classroom. This made it so much easier to engage with her and the class as I always felt supported, loved, and seen. This has been an amazing class I am so grateful I got to share this space with so many of my peers and professor!”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I feel as though this course provided lots of opportunities for participation and engagement. I think that the readings prepared students adequately for what was going to be talked about in class. I also feel that even when you did not do the readings you were not excluded from the conversation held in class. The professor was very open and easy to reach which I greatly appreciated as a student.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“This subject was something that I was interested in gaining some knowledge in because I felt it could help me in my social interactions. What I am taking from this course is a much more broader understanding of the intricacies of the world we live in and the society we live in. I think this course provided a different perspective as to what we can do to make a change in society. I believe that because of this course I am more empathetic to people’s struggles. With the stories that I heard this semester it is hard not to. I felt the class discussions were a great opportunity to not only learn from the professor but also the students around me.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“Continue to bring positive energy because it is infectious and encouraging.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I really enjoyed my time in this class and was happy to show up for all classes. I felt the instructor cared a lot about the students and it was a very genuine course overall. SHE IS THE GOAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I honestly feel like everything in this class was very intentionally placed and I have valued everything.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I have found a lot of value in the group discussions we’ve had as a class. I think it adds an extra dimension to a lecture-based course and has helped me feel validated by knowing others feel similarly about certain topics while also learning more from others’ points of view.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“This was the best class I have taken at Oxy”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“Group discussions have been the most inspiring and valuable part of the course for me. I learned so much from my peers and felt so supported and safe with the group.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I have found the community from group conversations the most fulfilling. Before this class, I had never experienced learning that highly valued the individual and fostering an environment that cared so deeply. I feel motivated to engage our text and movies for the sake of enrichment rather than a grade. In terms of readings, I found Audre Lorde’s Uses of the Erotic: The Erotic as Power, the most inspiring. It gave me a new perspective on living unashamed and in my erotic and the text was understandable and approachable. I find it inspiring that you teach in a way that is authentic to the material we learn about. You not only give us wonderful texts but also show us a better way to live through your own actions. I am always excited to come to this class!”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I thought that the week discussing reproductive justice and the connections that it had on general forms of injustice was so interesting.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I have really appreciated the time and energy you put into this course. Your enthusiasm is infectious and helps me stay engaged and interested. I also really appreciate your understanding of us as students and individuals. Overall, this has felt like a supportive environment that has encouraged us all to grow both academically and individually. Thank you!!”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I think the best part of the class for me has been the in class exercises and discussions because they help me to think differently about the issues that are presented in the class. For example, the gender box and the tree analogy are helpful frameworks for the complex concepts explored in this course.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“Experiencing a course that practices radical empathy in its syllabus and execution has been really inspiring. Its how I would want to teach if I taught a class.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“TJ and Radical Feminism were the most inspiring part of the course. I would have considered myself a liberal feminist now, but to think of issues from a bottom up perspective has entirely changed my perspective about justice, feminism, and my future work in feminism.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“I know this is broad but class discussions (versus only lectures) is so important in a class with the type of subject matter we handle. CTSJ classes deal with huge social rights and humanitarian issues so the opportunity to hear other perspectives and share yours is so valuable and I appreciate how much of our class is discussion based.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“The ways in which these ‘out-there’ theoretical frameworks can be applied to your everyday thinking. I have come to question my own conceptions of gender, love, and masculinity – and the ways in which they rest on made up concepts that constrain them.”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“Thank you for a wonderful semester! Knowing that your deadlines are flexible while being someone who does enjoy deadlines still provides me with a lot less stress and anxiety. I feel like from taking this course I have learning so much about myself and the world around me which I am really thankful for!”
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023
“Oxy is so lucky to have professor Dobson. She is an amazing professor, but also an amazing person. She is the reason I want to major in CTSJ and entirely transformed my perception of feminism, in a positive way. She also has expressed so much care for her students, I hope I will get the privilege to work with her again.”
SWMS 219: INTRODUCTION TO FEMINIST THEORY
TEACHING ASSISTANT | FALL 2022
COMMUNITY OF STUDENTS: 150
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Fortunate to be selected and continue my appointment as a teaching assistant for the USC Dornsife Gender & Sexuality Studies Department at USC, this was my second time assisting Dr. Diana York Blaine in teaching this particular general education course. In leading two discussion sections once again, I felt even more at home with the GSS community and fortunate to delve even deeper into feminist theory alongside brilliant undergraduate students spanning disciplines, majors, and minors at USC. This inspiring experience further primed me to stand on my own two feet with confidence as an instructor of record for future feminist studies focused courses.
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“I just want to say a huge THANK YOU to Caitlin!! She has always been so helpful and supportive throughout the semester. She always leads wonderful discussion sessions, encouraging us to express our opinions while also share her own insights. I appreciate how she gives us support by providing useful resources and her encouragements before each assignment. She really helped me a lot in studying feminism.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“I literally love Caitlin – if I could have one TA for the rest of my academic career it would be her.“
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“Different approach to teaching, but was very helpful in helping me develop intellectually. Taking the pressure of grades and deadlines away made me appreciate the content I was learning, and learning it at my own pace.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“You were exceptionally inspiring . Thank you for cementing the idea that feminism is about the importance of questioning. Especially in regard to history, knowledge production, and whose voices are being centered vs silences. This has been the most dynamic and constructive discussion section I have yet to experience during my time at USC. Also, thank you for always being a mental health advocate and reminding us that we are people before we are students. Lastly, thank you for always reminding us to have self–compassion and to realize that the work is never done both internally and externally when it comes to uprooting all the –isms. I wish you the best on your dissertation and Ph.D. and cheer you on as you continue being a badass woman and teacher. The world needs more people like you.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“Caitlin was an extremely helpful and knowledgable TA. She made my class experience thoroughly more enjoyable and has given insightful feedback on my projects thus far.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“Caitlin is an amazing instructor that supported me throughout the semester!”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“Caitlin has changed my life. She is an outstanding teacher and an ever–compassionate person. I have loved being a student of hers and getting to better understand both myself and the course’s content in her sections. Truly one of the best learning environments I have ever been apart of.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“The most valuable aspect of this course was the exchange of ideas during the discussion session.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“The most valuable aspect of this discussion section was how safe of a space Caitlin provided us. I got to hear so many ideas and experiences from my peers and there was almost never a quiet moment in our class because everyone was just so passionate about feminist theory, but that safe space that we ended up running with as students, started with Caitlin and her encouragement and inclusion of all of us. Literally if there was someone who had their hand up for a while but no one else noticed, Caitlin would always try to let them speak, or she would encourage us to question everything from other classes and professors at USC, to the very theory we read and some of the ideas we come across in our own lives. I have never felt more connected with a TA, because even if we didn’t speak all the time after class, I always knew Caitlin was cheering for me and my peers no matter what. She’s helped me with my view on the world and politics and my own intersecting identities as a Mexican–American woman, and she even wrote me a letter of rec for an internship that I am more than grateful for. Caitlin is the standard of what a good TA, or future professor should be as she fosters confidence in everyone around her to be passionate about human rights and speak about that passion. I can almost guarantee that 20 years from now when I reflect on which one of my professors or TAs had the most impact on me, it will be Caitlin.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“The most valuable aspect of this course was the development of a feminist critical lens applied to any subject or situation. A better understanding of institutionalized power dynamics and an expansive exposure to feminist theorists and ideas!“
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“The information learned in this course can truly apply to any job one seeks to get in the real world. it provided me with thoughtful insight as to how to approach new ideas and projects under the scope of a feminist lens.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“The most valuable aspect of this course was the way that Caitlin sees us as humans first before students.“
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“Everything we talked about in this discussion, I will be taking with me into my own life and career.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“Caitlin is my favorite TA I’ve ever had at USC, and probably always will be. She is so incredibly understanding, thoughtful, and willing to empathize with other people’s struggles. I had an exceptionally difficult semester that necessitated extra medical care, which made it hard for me to keep up with my classes at times. Caitlin was so understanding, created game plans with me to stay on track, and offered to meet with me one–on–one to engage with the course content further if I ever needed. She deserves nothing but the best moving forward in her career, because she really is the best of the best.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“You are THE best TA I have ever had. You are so understanding and empathic toward our situation and always willing to help beyond what is required of you. It is a pleasure to meet you and I am so glad I did not switch out of your session.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“I love Caitlin! She is my absolute favorite TA. She is incredibly understanding and aware of what her students are going through and makes certain not to overload us and to check in with us.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“You are definitely the best TA at USC! The most exciting period of class for me this semester is undoubtedly your discussion session every Friday at 10 a.m. Just wish you all the best and hope you have a fascinating winter holiday break!”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“Caitlin has been one of the BEST TAs I’ve had throughout my college experience! She listens to her students and values learning and information retention+application over assignments and arbitrary due dates. She cares a lot about her students and is enthusiastic to teach every class – her positivity is infectious!”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“Incredible TA! She’s so passionate about helping her students and making sure we balance learning with mental health.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“Caitlin was a beyond wonderful TA. She is well–spoken, passionate, and caring. She is patient and listens to her students. She is always thinking outside of the box in order to think of creative ways to engage students and innovative solutions to help students balance the requirements of this course with their busy college schedules. Her drive and energy are contagious and help motivate students to learn and do their best work. Anyone would be lucky to learn from her. Feminism classes need more people like Caitlin to help make the material digestible and welcoming for all.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“free and delightful discussions all refreshed my mind”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2022
“This teaching assistant genuinely cares about her students and make everyone’s opinion feel valid.”
COMM 395: GENDER, MEDIA, AND COMMUNICATION
INSTRUCTOR OF RECORD | SUMMER 2022
COMMUNITY OF STUDENTS: 13
COURSE NOTE: Topics covered in this course included theorizing gender and communication through media; intersectionality and the complexities of power; reproducing and mediating gender; the gendered state of violence; subjectivities and narratives of gender and sexuality; gender, media, and anti-violence advocacy; “loving from below”: gender, media, and communication as resistance; and coalitional feminism: building cultures of care.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Selected by the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism to co-instruct a summer course, COMM 395: Gender, Media and Communication is a longstanding upper-division theory course offered through the department, revised through an anti-violence scholar activist lens. The course was designed to help students apply a critical intersectional lens to constructions of gender, largely influenced and informed by media representations and communication practices at the interpersonal, public, societal, and cultural levels. Together in this course we examined images across platforms (e.g. film, news media, television, advertising, social media, archives, and more) to understand how media can shape our understanding of gender. As an interdisciplinary course we engaged cultural studies, critical media studies, violence and trauma studies, gender & sexuality studies, and transnational studies to examine the influence of media on communication and culture. We assessed and critically engaged dominant narratives and counter-narratives working to reinforce and/or subvert binary conceptualizations of femininity and masculinity in media. Through participatory lectures, student presentations, and discussion-based engagement, sometimes all in one day, this course was conducted in the spirit of collaboration, with mutual learning in mind. As critical scholars who research violence and trauma, maintaining any societal issue can be considered a feminist issue, alongside my co-instructor we aimed to tap into the scholar activist within each student, prompting them to embrace the importance of anti-violence advocacy related to timely social issues that matter most to them. We strived to equip students with a deeper understanding of the power dynamics influencing media narratives and teaching us how to be, how to communicate, how to push back, how to survive.
COMM 395 | SUMMER 2022
“Definitely, the most valuable aspect of this course was the lectures that Caitlin and Paulina shared with us. The videos, articles, and podcasts assigned for homework were valuable in our understanding of the course material and really helped push forward my growth in this course.”
COMM 395 | SUMMER 2022
“Caitlin had great communication skills. Thank you for being so attentive to the students’ needs and passionate about what you teach. Caitlin also gives very good feedback.”
COMM 395 | SUMMER 2022
“Would love to take one of your classes again!”
COMM 395 | SUMMER 2022
“Thank you for being so patient and accommodating!”
COMM 395 | SUMMER 2022
“I really enjoyed the course! I thought that the syllabus was very well thought out and the course materials were relevant. Usually I have overlap with content/reading from my other courses but (almost) all of the material was new to me.”
COMM 395 | SUMMER 2022
“Caitlin is one of the sweetest person I’ve ever met! She is kind and caring, always stays positive and encourages us to discover our potential. I would 100% recommend her and all of her classes!”
COMM 395 | SUMMER 2022
“The most valuable aspect of this course was being able to learn how to dissect media objects and the world around me through another lens which I can then apply not only to my personal life but to my career as someone who wants to work in entertainment / media. As someone who cares about diverse representation in these institutions, it is very important that I understand how to look at these things.”
COMM 395 | SUMMER 2022
“The guest speakers were a good complimentary component to our regular lectures as well, and I enjoy collaborative learning in all my classes in this way.”
COMM 395 | SUMMER 2022
“I cannot find exactly one most valuable aspect, for everything I’ve learned was inspiring and thought–provoking! It has transform many of my past perception and allows me to have a more deep understanding about gender–related topics.”
COMM 395 | SUMMER 2022
“The most valuable aspect of this course was the variation in the syllabus, learning new and important things, open discussion about real world/important topics, safe space”
COMM 395 | SUMMER 2022
“The most valuable aspect of this course was learning about intersectionality, resources, and the state of the world.”
COMM 395 | SUMMER 2022
“One of the best professors I’ve ever had. Caitlin is kind, respectful, endearing, and a great professor. I’ve learned more than I thought I could in only a few weeks and loved every second of it.”
SWMS 212: INTRODUCTION TO GENDER & SEXUALITY: “AMERICAN” PERSPECTIVES
TEACHING ASSISTANT | SPRING 2022
COMMUNITY OF STUDENTS: 150
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Selected for an annual appointment with the USC Dornsife Gender & Sexuality Studies Department, this longstanding general education course was created and taught by Dr. Diana York Blaine, who turned out to be an exceptional mentor open to collaboration. Within the two discussion sections led by me, together students reviewed and discussed main concepts from the lectures and readings. As each week of lecture addressed important, timely, and sensitive issues, my intent was for us to take each of these topics seriously through our shared (and often differing) critical engagement during discussions. I encouraged students to imagine the gender and sexuality studies theorists, whose work we were reading, in the room with us. Students examined how they might place themselves in conversation with the scholars they were engaging. Which forms of gratitude and/or critique might students have to offer? How might they suggest carrying forward these scholarly works, placed in conversation with their own understanding(s) of gender and sexuality? What might they contribute to the conversation through their own voice, informed by their own lived experience(s)?
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“Caitlin is one of the most talented TAs I’ve ever seen. She’s knowledgeable, caring, flexible, and encouraging! Love her”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“I don’t have any additional feedback besides that I genuinely enjoyed her method of teaching and is one the main reasons I loved this course. Keep up the amazing work and thank you for everything!”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“Caitlin you are an amazing instructor and you do a really a good job of bringing different students perspectives together and mediating differences. I really enjoyed taking your class this semester.”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“Thank you for being such a caring, understanding TA in the past semester! I really appreciate the weekly emails you send to us and how you always ask us to prioritize our well–being. I also really appreciate your flexibility with deadlines. Sometimes school gets tough and I think your flexibility definitely helped reduce my stress. Thank you for being such an awesome TA!”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“The most valuable aspect of this course was the discussion section. This is because she provided us with a safe space where we could share our experiences and discuss sensitive topics. Caitlin also was an amazing support system regardless if it was related to the course or not and showed she truly was invested in us.”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“This course was my first humanities course at USC and it turned out to be very eye–opening for me. I enjoyed learning about the different topics in class such as gender, sex, race amongst others and I’ve noticed that I’m more analytical of movies I watch now. I feel like this class has given me a different perspective of looking at media so this class was worth it for sure.”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“WOW! Caitlin was an AMAZING TA for this class, and she was one of the most caring and knowledgeable TAs I have ever had during my time at USC. She was very accommodating and caring, and she helped lead discussions that left me thinking about the course content constantly when I left discussion. She was always there to help answer my questions, and she made things very clear. With her help, I felt like I was able to succeed in this class academically while being able to apply the knowledge I gained from this class to the real world. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to have her as my TA.”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“Caitlin was such a fantastic TA and it was truly a blessing to have her assistance and insight as a guide throughout this semester. She is so caring towards all of her students and their needs, and genuinely cares about our learning of the material but maintaining our personal well being in the process of doing so. Her passion for the subject matter was clear and infectious. It would be a privilege to have the opportunity to take another class with her in the future.”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“Caitlin is an exceptional TA who always made sure the classroom was a safe space when discussing sensitive topics. She went outside the syllabus to diversify the course and was very receptive to student’s needs. She prioritized our mental health and learning experience above all else, which made coming to class a pleasure.”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“You are an absolutely amazing TA and human. Thank you for everything!”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“Great TA! Good communication and willing to meet her students where they are to accommodate their needs.”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“I loved how Caitlin had a unique leadership structure for the discussions. Her weekly journal and homework assignments blended well with the discussion, and everything had a purpose. She was super helpful in connecting all the ideas from the course content together, and I am very grateful for her help to leading an amazing discussion. I also loved the individual grading sheet as well–made it very clear as to how assignments were graded.”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“Students were required to lead a discussion throughout the semester and it was really helpful to stay engaged and really grasp the material being taught. I learned a lot in this class and professor Dobson was extremely helpful.”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“The discussion section topics and ability to lead and be led by our peers was so helpful and engaging. I always left discussion feeling as though the material was more tangible for me to comprehend.”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“At times the class felt too cishet but that was not Caitlin’s fault and she actually sent us supplemental readings (not required) to diversify the course.”
SWMS 212 | SPRING 2022
“Caitlin created a space in which we could discuss topics freely while we engaged with the topics at our own pace. Where everyone was in their journey was respected and there were no judgements if someone was just starting their gender & sexuality studies journey or if they were more advanced.”
SWMS 219: INTRODUCTION TO FEMINIST THEORY
TEACHING ASSISTANT | FALL 2021
COMMUNITY OF STUDENTS: 150
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
As the first part of my annual appointment as a teaching assistant for the USC Dornsife Gender & Sexuality Studies Department at USC, this general education course was also created and taught by Dr. Diana York Blaine. Within the two discussion sections led by me, together students reviewed, discussed, tapped into, and skimmed the surface of the geneology of feminist theory. Taught at a time when USC was first returning to campus for in-person courses amid the ongoing global pandemic, I did my best to remain flexible with students who benefitted from more of a hybrid experience for a myriad of reasons. Students were active in honing their critical thinking skills, no matter their level of education in feminist theory. They were prepared and then primed to embrace the interdisciplinary value of feminist theory and gender & sexuality studies. They actively committed to learning from one other and respectfully helped one another grow as feminist scholars and human beings. They were encouraged to think about their own educational, activist, professional, and personal goals. Early in the course, students brainstormed social issues that were most important to them, challenged to approach each societal issue as ripe for critique through a feminist theoretical lens.
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“I really enjoyed coming into your discussion section every week. You always encouraged us to think critically about the topics and generate meaningful conversation. Outside of the classroom, you are very understanding and trustworthy.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“This course gave me the language to describe and understand issues that have surrounded me my entire life. It gave me a deeper understanding of the reality of challenges I will certainly face in my future, but did not discourage me from facing those challenges; if anything this course empowered me through the knowledge it provided.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“Caitlin, I can’t wait for you to start teaching on your own! I learned so much in your short discussion sections, and I really think you would be a fan favorite professor if you decided to do so!”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“Caitlin was an amazing TA. She cared deeply for our group and was truly selfless in her work to make sure we understood difficult topics. Whenever I was uncertain about what Dr. Blaine was teaching, I knew Caitlin would help us comprehend the week’s concepts. Caitlin added another layer of meaning and understanding to Dr. Blaine’s lectures. I am thankful to have had her as a TA, and am excited about and confident in her future as an educator.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“The person teaching the course was the most valuable aspect. She was very understanding, kind, and just an overall good person.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“The most valuable aspect of this course was the very interesting discussions that exposed me to a lot of important topics I had not discussed previously.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“This course gave me the language to describe and understand issues that have surrounded me my entire life. It gave me a deeper understanding of the reality of challenges I will certainly face in my future, but did not discourage me from facing those challenges; if anything this course empowered me through the knowledge it provided.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“I’m so grateful to be in Caitlin’s discussion class in my first semester of university education. She’s such a sweet, passionate, and intelligent individual that I look up to.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“Thank you Caitlin for creating such a great environment for us to learn this semester. You made all the difference in my experience in the course.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“Thank you so much for an amazing semester, Caitlin! I can’t wait to see what your future has in store for you :)”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“Thank you so much Caitlin! It was a great semester with you and the discussion section. Thank you for being so understanding and flexible with assignments and such – it was appreciated and greatly needed.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“The most valuable aspect was how inclusive and receptive she was to listen to us as students and people who experience things.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“Really liked the discussion section and our conversations. I appreciated how the discussion leading weren’t specified by a rubric and almost open to what people wanted to do for their weeks which lends itself to great creativity.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“I enjoyed the discussion of SWMS 219 more as it was a safer place to share my opinions but also hear others’ opinions.”
SWMS 219 | FALL 2021
“One of the most valuable aspects of this course was who was leading it——Caitlin. I could write an extensive essay on why Caitlin is an amazing person and educator. Caitlin is truly phenomenal. She is sincere, well–versed, and passionate. It is so evident that Caitlin really cares about the topics and discussions at hand, which is so inspiring as a student. Her passion makes me want to learn more, and further engage in discussions. Furthermore, she truly cares about us and our well–being. There has not been a single discussion where we’ve entered the room, and Caitlin did not ask us how we were doing. Most professors ask this question on a surface level, whereas Caitlin actually cares, and wants to know if there is anything she can do to help. I have really appreciated working with her this semester, as the transition from online to in–person/hybrid has been difficult. Caitlin has taught me how influential an educator is to a student’s learning experience.“
COMM 204: PUBLIC SPEAKING
INSTRUCTOR OF RECORD | SUMMER 2021
COMMUNITY OF STUDENTS: 4
COURSE NOTE: The design of this critical course syllabus was inspired and largely informed by Dr. Sonja K. Foss’s article titled, Revisioning The Public Speaking Course (1992). It was also designed with gratitude to USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism educators, friends, and colleagues who have paved the way and taught COMM 204: Public Speaking before my time, especially Dr. Courtney Cox, Dr. Sarah Kessler, Dr. Sulafa Zidani, Dr. Lauren Sowa, and Dr. Rogelio Lopez.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Selected by the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism to teach a stand-alone course, this summer session was conducted virtually with a small group of 4 students at various stages of their academic journey. Public speaking permeates human life in a multitude of ways. The collective purpose and aim of this virtual course was to help students strengthen their public speaking proficiency through both a theory and practice-based curriculum. Presentational speaking and speaking-listening processes were practiced and assessed across multiple contexts. As a public speaking class, this was also a learning experience in finding, developing, and strengthening students’ own critical voice, in connection with relevant professional, intellectual, and personal areas of interest. By collaboratively cultivating a brave space and culture of respect, students benefitted from a space in which authentic peer feedback and group engagement will be embraced and celebrated. Through this course, students tapped into existing technologies and engaged new innovations, in order to grapple with the necessary experience of presenting in virtual spaces as together we continued navigating a global pandemic. After partaking in this course, students improved their speaking, listening, and critical thinking abilities in key areas including: cultivating abilities to research, critcally engage, and present important topics to a collective; give engaging, responsibly developed speeches, applicable to a variety of contexts; listen and share feedback with others’ speeches, in ways that simultaneously challenge and uplift one another; effectively use technology in (virtual) experiences with public speaking; tap into personal passions and purpose, but also with reflexivity, ethics, and empathy to inform more authentic approaches to public speaking; hone their own unique voice, using body language and voice effectively, remaining flexible, creative, and proactive in virtual vs. in-person settings; strengthen flexibility and resiliency in the face of challenges that often arise leading up to, during, and following experiences with public speaking.
COMM 204 | SUMMER 2021
“Had an amazing summer, thank you for being open minded and creating personal connections with us!”
COMM 204 | SUMMER 2021
“She was the best.”
COMM 204 | SUMMER 2021
“The MOST valuable aspect(s) of this course was that Professor was incredible.”
COMM 204 | SUMMER 2021
“The least valuable aspect(s) of this course was that it would have been infinitely better if it was in person, but that’s out of our control.”
COMM 204 | SUMMER 2021
“The most valuable aspect of this course was the content and consistently practicing different types of speaking.”
COMM 204 | SUMMER 2021
“The most valuable aspect of this course was the Professor.”
COMM 360: LOS ANGELES COMMUNICATION AND CULTURE
GRADER | SPRING 2021
COMMUNITY OF STUDENTS: 50
COURSE NOTE: While USC course evaluations did not appear to account for TA written feedback from students, and despite the course being conducted virtually as we continued navigating the global pandemic together, this semester resulted in an amazing experience interfacing with students as a grader in support of valued mentor Dr. Robeson Taj Frazier. Together with Taj and my co-TA Joshua, we created a virtual environment within which students were able to openly discuss lived experiences while remaining grounded in course content focused on the culture of Los Angeles.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Collaboratively created years prior by Dr. Robeson Taj Frazier and taught within the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, this course places a communication and cultural studies lens on the city of Los Angeles. Students were taught to treat Los Angeles as a case study for working to understand culture, politics, and society. According to the syllabus, this course explored representations of Los Angeles communicated in diverse media and diverse forms of popular culture. It considered the expressed, produced, and received, rhetoric of and about LA and its surrounding areas. History, media, and culture played a central role to analyses conducted in class. Weekly readings balanced general discussions of L.A. history, culture, art, media, and critique with a specific focus on themes including: “the development and struggles over the city; policies and practices related to housing, real estate, transportation, education, and arts/culture; different and ever-changing media and literary depictions and imaginaries of the city; as well as the various movements and moments of political and civil unrest. What’s key for this course is linking our developing engagement with the past with a critical focus and interrogation of both the present and what is at stake for the future.” As a grader for the course, I was steadfast in mentoring, offering detailed written feedback, and remaining accessible to student needs, helping to make sure course concepts landed and always in partnership with Joshua and Professor Frazier.
COMM 206: COMMUNICATION AND CULTURE
TEACHING ASSISTANT | FALL 2020
COMMUNITY OF STUDENTS: 150
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
A course best taught at the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism to 100-150 students by and according to one of my personally most appreciated mentors Dr. Cristina Mejia Visperas, “This course was designed as an introduction to Cultural Studies, an interdisciplinary area of critical analysis, ideas, concepts, and research that is essential to the academic discipline of Communication. Communication(s) refers to the various practices and technologies we use to convey and share information and feelings, and to connect people, places, ideas, things and products. Culture, however, is a more complex and elastic concept, its definition more difficult to establish firmly. To some degree, it denotes both the history and legacies of such systems of communication, and even more systems of meaning making. But it also indicates how such systems of information, communication, and meaning are negotiated, articulated, constrained, and transformed within a society. Culture consequently describes the totality of all communication practices, terms, and systems of information and meaning. It signifies what people actually do, i.e. their agency, as well as the social context, i.e. the structure where these practices and processes are shaped and enacted.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“I have never known a better TA than Caitlin. Her compassion for students as well as her passion for the subject resonated with me deeply. She was so understanding about the pandemic and students difficult lives during this period, that getting to have her as a TA was a godsend. She regularly engaged students and made me grow as a person and a student. She is someone I will remember for the rest of my time at USC–––she is everything USC TAs should be.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“Great attitude”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“Thank you for a great discussion section! You really helped to breakdown some of the tougher readings and made them easier to understand.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“Caitlin was a great TA that cared for her students and their well–being. She genuinely wanted everyone to succeed and took steps to ensure that students had the proper tools to do that.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“Caitlin is such a gem! I feel so, so lucky to have had her as a TA this semester. She is so kind, knowledgeable about her field and the course topics, and encouraging. Our discussion section has been the highlight of my week because we are able to tackle important topics in a safe space. Caitlin has made this semester so amazing!”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“I absolutely adore Caitlin! Caitlin made my remote semester so much more enjoyable because of her guidance, patience, and knowledge. Caitlin is now one of my favorite people from the USC community. So grateful for how she welcomed me to her discussion session and how she continuously greets everyone with smiles and encouragement. Definitely going to miss seeing Caitlin (even if it was just online). Definitely want to meet her in person soon!”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“I really appreciated this class. Your understanding has made such a big difference for me this semester. I had a lot going on and this class, you, and the discussion section reenergized me and made me feel good. Thank you”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“Caitlin did a tremendous job and I can’t say enough positive things about her. She guided our discussions while also entertaining our own ideas and thoughts, and she created a really great community within our discussion class. She was extremely knowledgeable on all of the course concepts as well.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“I appreciate the structure our discussion sections had. In the past, it has been sort of a free for all, and I haven’t feel like I gained much in those discussions, but this was one a true success in providing a safe and engaging space.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“I appreciated the student–centered discussions that you pushed for in this discussion section and loved that each student got to lead during a week.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“best ta ever! extremely kind and welcoming. very supportive, encouraging and understanding. i learned a lot from her”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“Caitlin was a fantastic TA, was super helpful with questions and really cared about her students.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“excellent TA, so understanding, sweet, and available! thank you :)”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“The meetings we had before papers are due are super insightful in generating thoughts and helping to ease some anxieties about writing and studying asynchronously. Thank you!”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“The most valuable aspect of this course was Caitlin herself, group discussions, going more in depth on certain topics then you’re able to do in lecture”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“The most valuable aspects of this course are that I was able to practice public speaking and present readings in a low–stress environment, and the valuable discussion that we had.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“The class discussions led by students kept everything pretty relevant and helped to break down what was discussed in the lecture.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“I loved having the one–on–one meetings with Caitlin. They were so valuable in ensuring that I was on the right path for my 2nd paper and having human interactions with ppl during this isolating time!”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“I really enjoyed attending discussion sessions every week. Caitlin made it super enjoyable. She gave the class space to discuss concepts that interested us while adding her own insights and questions to expand the conversation. Caitlin was also very accessible outside of class time. I knew I was able to chat with her about anything and get her feedback.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“This discussion section really helped enrich my experience in Comm–206 and I enjoyed hearing the viewpoints of my peers.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“The most valuable aspect of this course was applying theories and studies to current events. Deeply analyzing readings both during lecture, and then again in these discussion sections.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“The most valuable aspect definitely has to be the presentation component of discussion sections, especially the week where I personally got to lead because it helped me expand on the reading material in the lecture. Also, I think it’s great that students gave previews of the next lecture’s reading in their presentations as well. It helped set up a lot of background for the reading and provided a lot of context.”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“class is so awesome, Caitlin is the best”
COMM 206 | SUMMER 2020
“As an international student learning asynchronously, I really feel grateful for the accommodation and understanding that Caitlin and the course in general have provided. They helped a lot in coping with anxieties caused by time different and learning virtually, and solving those difficulties made me less stressed and more confident and positive in expressing my thoughts and learning this course well. And I like the idea of discussion leadership as it helps students to have a deeper and nuanced understanding about certain topics as they are preparing for the presentation.”
COMM 395: GENDER, MEDIA, AND COMMUNICATION
GRADER | FALL 2019
COMMUNITY OF STUDENTS: 50
COURSE NOTE: In support of Dr. Sarah Kessler, a mentor who treated me like a colleage and collaborator before the course even commenced, I was a grader responsible for helping to teach 50 Communication students about the relationship between gender, media, and communication. Bearing witness to Professor Kessler’s critical and human-centered approach to pedagogy has been highly instrumental in my own development as a cultural studies educator.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
According to Professor Kessler’s syllabus, ”Together students interrogated and challenged dominant cultural notions of gender as a biologically fixed female/male binary. Together, we examined how normative ideas about femininity and masculinity influence how individuals behave and communicate, and, not least, how media both construct and reflect cultural understandings of what it means to be ‘male or female.’ This course was deeply interdisciplinary: we used theories from communication studies, cultural studies, film and media studies, gender studies, and queer studies to explore different processes and practices of gender, specifically in terms of media representations of femininity and masculinity. Rather than framing it as an isolated concept, we approached gender intersectionally, i.e. in relation to other defining aspects of identity such as race, ethnicity, class, sexuality, and nationality. By examining how ongoing debates on gender construction characterize depictions of gender in media, we considered gender’s crucial intersections with notions of power, identity, and voice; explored possibilities of challenging the conventional ways we imagine and perform gender; and envisioned the kinds of social and cultural shifts such transformations might bring.”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“It was such a positive learning environment for a class that touches on so many diverse and challenging topics, especially with such a large group of people. Caitlin and Dr. Kessler were amazing and I would love to take another class with them if that were an option.”
COMM 396 | FALL 2019
“One of the kindest people I have ever met. She always speaks so eloquently and intelligently. She also cares deeply for the students and the tough topics we discussed.”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“Caitlin is the best TA! She was always available to us when we needed her.”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“Caitlin was an amazing TA , her and Dr. Kessler were a dream team in the way they were able to teach us so much information while still facilitating such interesting discussions. I had a lot of personal struggles this semester and she was extremely receptive and gave me support when needed which allowed me to do better in the class even when struggling.”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“I really enjoyed having class with Caitlin this semester! She’s awesome.”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“Truly the best TA ever!!! Thank you so much!!”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“I wish Caitlin would have spoken more during discussions, I always learned a lot from her contributions. She worked very hard to answer emails and grade, I appreciated this a lot.”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“LOVED all of your commentary!! u are so informed and always were sure to add a new viewpoint to our discussions”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“She’s awesome!”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“Once again, the greatest Ta that I’ve had! So much help (and positive reinforcement). Makes me emotional writing this, knowing that I’ll miss Caitlin.“
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“Wish i heard from her more, i loved her perspective on topics from class. Very socially aware and considered students’ perspectives. She made students feel safe and appreciated when they would speak up about personal experiences. Loved her!”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“I really enjoyed having you as our TA!”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“One of the best TA’s, she had so much knowledge and she respected every persons opinion. She was so easy to talk to and gave really good feedback.”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“Possibly my favorite TA ever! Felt very understood and comfortable enough to share my questions and opinions with her. She was very specific in her guidance and reasoning as well.”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“Keep up the good work. You’re very relatable and caring. I appreciate you going out of your way to ensure that I feel safe in the classroom.”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“I would have loved to have Caitlin teach more than just one class session, as I thought her insights on the material were really interesting and compelling.”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“Thank you so much for teaching this class! I ended up watching the movie you recommended on my own and it was really enlightening and I could see the toxic masculinity happening even within my own family.”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“YOU ARE THE BEST TA IN THE WORLD!! Thank you for an incredible semester!!”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“Caitlin was the nicest and most understandable. She really helped with my projects and was a great leader.”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“You are such an amazing TA. I really appreciate all the help you have given me and your kindness. You are the best!”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“Dr. Kessler has been such an amazing part of my Annenberg experience and this class was no exception. The material was relevant and interesting, and both Dr. Kessler and Caitlin made learning about it engaging. I would highly recommend to my friends!”
COMM 395 | FALL 2019
“Inspiring helpful and supportive one of the best TAs I have had”
ASCJ 210: CONTOURS OF CHANGE IN MEDIA AND COMMUNICATION
TEACHING ASSISTANT | FALL 2018
COMMUNITY OF STUDENTS: 100
COURSE NOTE: With no prior experience in teaching, other than leading groups abroad, I arrived to the start of this semester with little understanding of what a discussion section was. I learned in that same moment I would be leading two. I am eternally grateful to my co-TA Dr. Tyler Hiebert for taking me under his wing and showing me the ropes of being a teaching assistant at USC Annenberg. I felt dropped in the deep end, quickly fell in love with teaching, and ultimately ended the semester having learned to swim by doing.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
In support of Dr. Robeson Taj Frazier, who by the end of the semester would become one of my most valued and highly influential doctoral program mentors, particularly when it comes to developing lectures intended to actively engage students, this course explored “‘Change’ as a central theme and topic discussed in many Annenberg classes. According to the course syllabus, ”Educators consistently challenge our students to consider: 1) the changing political, economic, technological and cultural and geopolitical context of media, communication technologies, and sociocultural practices of meaning making; and 2) how communication practices, industries, and fields of life have built on earlier histories of communication, media, and social life and changed over time. Students often respond to these ideas by asking themselves and Annenberg faculty/staff how they should approach the inevitability of change in the communication and media fields and best prepare – professionally, intellectually, and socially – for becoming and being responsive, innovative, and transformative agents and citizens amid such change. The course encouraged students to see and understand change through different lenses — institutional, social and cultural, as well as individual — thereby exposing them to structures, spectrums and actors precipitating change. Students also gained perspective on the impact and valuation of change, how it manifests in a legal, political, economic, and/or social contexts, and how changes are felt, read and understood by a broad public and citizenry. Each week, we worked to situate the discussed themes in various historical and contemporary events, struggles, and personalities. Thus, while the themes were presented to students theoretically, the themes also offered tangible and accessible dimensions via historical and current-day examples connected to the issues and concerns of our contemporary moment.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“You are easily one of if not the best TA I’ve had at USC – you rock!”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“She was super clear while managing to encourage creativity.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“I touched upon this in my evaluation of my discussion section but Caitlin is very knowledgeable on the topics, gives great feedback and advice on assignments, seems genuinely interested in hearing her students’ ideas, beliefs, and experiences, and generally fosters a great learning environment in the discussion section. She frequently brings up interesting aspects of an argument that had not yet been discussed.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“Great TA, very helpful, easy to communicate with. responds fast to emails”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“I love you! Thanks for leading an actually interesting and engaging discussion. I really enjoyed your teaching and our class time :)”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“Caitlin is an amazing TA”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“One of the best if not the best TA’s I’ve ever had.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“Caitlin is a fantastic instructor who gave incredible feedback throughout the semester. She always had our best interests at heart as students and was always available for any questions or concerns.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“Caitlin, you were an absolute pleasure to work with this semester! Best TA!”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“You were amazing at being polite, considerate, understanding, and approachable throughout the semester. Thank you!”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“I really loved your discussion course. You really added to the class.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“You’re an amazing TA and I absolutely loved being in your discussion.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“A great teaching assistant– always available to give feedback and help out students, extremely encouraging and built a very interesting dynamic during discussion that was full of critical thinking on behalf of the students.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“best TA ever; always there to help you, gives great advice, leaves informative comments on papers”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“I always think you are nice and friendly, I enjoy having you as my instructor.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“Loved her!”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“Caitlin, you were an absolute pleasure to work with. I loved having you as a TA this semester!”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“SHE’S THE SWEETEST!”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“I have said that you are the best TA and I still think so !”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“Great TA! Had really good insight and always let the class discuss important subjects.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“This semester I was put to the test in ways no one could ever imagine. With so much going on with my own personal life, midway through the semester I felt that this was over for me. I can say that without an instructor like Ms. Dobson I would not be where I am this semester. The number of times that Ms. Dobson reached out whenever I had a question about the subject matter, or the times that I wasn’t doing well with my own personal life, she showed that she cared not just as a student but as a person. Whenever I saw that an instructor was so heavily invested in my well–being both inside the class room and outside in the real world it not only motivated me to do better, it inspired me to be a better person and treat the way she treats her students. With Ms. Dobson’s help and guidance I have learned more than I ever thought I would about this topic. The questions that she would ask her students would make me leave her class and think for an entire week so that in the next class session I raise my hand and be the first one to give my answer/response to the question/subject. I’ve had TA’s and instructors who only worry about class room attendance and grading an assignment but Ms. Dobson was the first I ever had who truly wanted her students to succeed and was willing to do anything she could that was within her power to help get them there. I hope that she continues teaching at USC because she truly is what every instructor should aspire to be like. When a student meets an instructor who’s passionate about the subject and wants her students to succeed, that is really all that it takes to have your students heavily invest in the class and aspire to do more and be more. Professor Dobson, thank you for everything this entire semester, I hope that you continue a teaching career and that USC would be wise enough to hire an individual like yourself who surely does bring out the best in everyone around her.“
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“Ms. Dobson was an amazing instructor who helped me so much in this course and let me reach my full potential. She was also very understanding of my demanding tennis schedule and didn’t discredit me for the time missed in class due to tournaments. I would definitely recommend this course to others and recommend Ms. Dobson as an instructor.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“She was one of my favorite teachers. I loved her class”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“I loved being in your discussion. The discussions were always engaging, interesting, and helped me further understand course concepts that I could apply to my papers.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“I think Caitlin did a really great job of keeping everyone engaged all year. She is clearly very knowledgeable on the topics and is also very open to hearing other perspectives. She kept the discussions interesting and my discussion section was one of the more productive discussion sections I’ve ever had in terms of student participation and topics covered. All in all, this discussion section was genuinely interesting and fun to attend and it definitely helped my understanding of readings and topics while also helping me to have my own opinions on those topics through the discussions.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“The most valuable aspect of this course was the way Professor Dobson kept the entire class engaged week in and week out for the discussion sections. A class that’s only an hour per week and fifty minutes long, yet every single person was engaged and motivated with the information that Ms. Dobson was teaching us. Her ability to bring out the best in her students and her passion for teaching complimented each other which is why I felt that everyone looked forward to these discussion sections. Every week I learned something I did not know prior to the class and every week I’d try to incorporate what I learned into my every day life or tried to be socially conscience to see if I can identify anything that I learned in the outside world. Ms. Dobson and her methods were valuable and vital which is why as a class we felt that we learned more than we possibly could. Thank you Professor Dobson for a wonderful semester that was nothing short of extraordinary.
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“The most valuable aspect of this course was having different people in the discussion lead the conversation on the topic of the week throughout the semester. This made it so class was always exciting and everyone was engaged in conversation.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“Loved discussion topics and your role and helping guiding it, but not controlling it.”
ASCJ 210 | FALL 2018
“The discussion section was very interesting and fun in that it gave the students the opportunity to talk about the topics in an open and productive way while also touching on the general topics we are interested in and want to discuss. I think the course definitely equipped me with interesting academic and intellectual concepts and theories that can be applied to everyday situations as well as other classes. I have already used several topics from this class as paper topics for other class thanks, in large part, to the understanding of those topics I developed in class. Caitlin is inviting in class which makes it easy to talk in class.”
A friendly note about syllabus plagiarism: I am a community-minded scholar who believes deeply in the importance of collaboration, coalition-building, and individual ego death. I also value mutual learning opportunities, respect for personal boundaries, and attributing the genealog(ies) of intellectual contributions with care. If you are arriving to this page and wish to make use of any of the syllabi (adapted or original) linked to this page, please ethically cite, reach out so we may chat together about critical pedagogy, and trust I will always embrace constructive feedback as an opportunity to evolve and grow as an educator.
STUDENT SENTIMENT
CTSJ 160 | SPRING 2023