Today@Dal

Three questions, each answered in 150 words or less. One-Minute Meeting is a quick, easy way to get to know more about your colleagues.

Today's meeting is with Cynthia Parks, Senior Instructor in the Department of Plant, Food, and Environmental Sciences.

What is your favourite thing about working at Dal?

The constant change in duties and daily schedule. Every day is different and full of potential excitement. A new semester brings new students, there may be new courses to work on, educational outreach like Science Fair, student projects, committee meetings, lab supplies, research and testing new procedures, professional development courses. Never a dull moment.

What is one daily habit you have adopted that you feel has benefitted you in your work?

Inbox zero. Nothing fills me with anxiety like seeing a large number of unread emails. I find for me, responding to requests and following up as soon as possible is the most efficient way to work. This does require working in the evening, and spending a good hour on Sunday night, but starting the work week with a fresh slate helps me focus on class and I have the peace of mind that student needs have been met. The “send later” email option is very handy!

Is there a quote that motivates you?

Definitely the “Golden Rule,” treat others the way you would want to be treated. If students and co-workers know you can be counted on to deliver tasks, they will be more likely to act on your requests. Everyone wants to be heard and respected, if you listen to others, they will be more likely to hear what you are saying.

Now, nominate someone you'd like to see on One-Minute Meeting.

Is there someone at Dal you'd like to know more about? Email today@dal.ca to suggest them for a One-Minute Meeting. Please provide contact information for the person you are nominating and let us know if you are comfortable with them knowing you nominated them (in case they ask). We'll then send the nominee an email seeing if they'd like to participate.

Previously on One-Minute Meeting:
 

Gwen Bartleman, Undergraduate Medical Education (UGME) Administrator in the Faculty of Medicine  

Shane LeBlanc, Director of Postgraduate Medical Education in the Faculty of Medicine

Gillian Hatch, a Student Success Advisor at Dal

Lana Bos, Curriculum Development Specialist with Extended Learning in the Faculty of Agriculture  

Paul Manning, Assistant Professor, Department of Plant, Food, and Environmental Sciences