My teaching philosophy centers on inclusive, applied learning that connects ecological concepts to real-world challenges. I aim to create a positive environment that fosters dynamic learning experiences and values each individual and their diverse experiences.
Undergraduate Teaching
I have served as Instructor of Record for:
- Environmental Science Lab
A course designed to introduce students to diverse career pathways in environmental science, while providing hands-on experience in data collection and analysis. This lab is part of the School of Natural Resources and Environment curriculum at the University of Florida.
Student feedback highlights:
"Ana is a compassionate and understanding instructor who was instrumental to my participation and enjoyment in this lab. You can tell she wants what is best for her students and she will work with them to ensure things go smoothly. Ana provided constant support in my career goals and made me feel more confident in what my future in environmental science holds."
"Ana did a very good job of making this a low–pressure and often fun class, but one where we got to learn about real–world applications of environmental science and some of the available job positions in the field of environmental science."
"The instructor was incredibly nice and helpful, always there for students in case they have questions or need help. Her passion and willingness to learn alongside students also made her an even better instructor. Her choice of locations for discovery of different careers was very versatile and marked all places which are of interest."
"Always enthusiastic and invested in the expansion of our horizons. Gave a lot of good advice from personal experience."
"Fostered a positive learning environment, I felt comfortable participating and enjoyed everything about the course."
"She is the best ever, she cares a lot about her students and is very open to making everything work best for her students".
"Ana was an excellent instructor! She's personable and thoughtful, and was a great person to see first thing in the morning! She provided meaningful feedback on assignments that helped me excel in the course."
Teaching Development
During my Ph.D., I have participated in professional development programs to strengthen my teaching practice:
- Preparing Future Faculty – Graduate School, Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, and Center for Teaching Excellence, University of Florida.
- Teaching Assistant Passport to Great Teaching – University of Florida.
Workshops and Facilitation
I have co-developed and facilitated workshops at the University of Florida focused on fieldwork and equitable research practices:
- Fieldwork Ethics and Researcher Safety
Fostering equity, inclusivity, and well-being in research collaborations
- Building Equitable International Collaborations:
Reimagining global research partnerships through more equitable approaches
Curriculum Development
- Just International Science
Co-developed an interdisciplinary curriculum focused on ethical and equitable research practices, including modules on helicopter science, fieldwork ethics, researcher identity and safety, and international collaboration.
Additional Teaching Experience
- Biology Teacher (High School)
Taught biology at a private high school.