Tutor Q&A: Dennis Pavlik, Math, Computer Programming, Electronics, and Anthropology Tutor

This week we chatted with Dennis Pavlik who tutors in math, computer programming, electronics, and anthropology.

Tell us a little about yourself.

Since my youth, I have had a wide range of interests. I graduated from the Illinois Institute ofTechnology with a BS in Mathematics and a minor in computer science. After 6+ years in the Air Force as a computer programmer, I attained an MA in Anthropology at Northern Illinois University. I did not pursue social sciences as a career but continued as a computer programmer in private industry. With the rise of personal computers, I formed my own contract programming services’ company, developing PC based programs for small to mid-size businesses. Along the way, I did not neglect my education; completing an MS degree in computer science, taking extensive coursework in electronics and art history and teaching as an adjunct instructor at Morton College. In 2009, I joined ITT Tech as an instructor. There I taught computer technologies and electronics until the company closed in 2016. Currently, I teach computer programming as an adjunct instructor at Triton College.

Why did you want to become a teacher/tutor?

My wide range of interests and love of learning form the foundation of my teaching. I am fascinated by the world around us. The more I study it, the more I realize I do not know about it. My love of learning is what I want to share with my students, not only to inspire love of learning and fascination but also provide them with the knowledge and skills that will allow them to pursue a fulfilling career.

Tell us about a positive experience that you’ve had with a student.

One of the many rewarding aspects of teaching is experiencing students’ entry into a career. One student comes to mind. He came into my office during the semester just before his graduation. In a state of excitement, he exclaimed “I got it! I got it!” Once calmed, he explained that he got his dream job working as a circuit test engineer with a major electronics firm. Not only was he happy with his salary but they paid the relocation expenses for him to move to Indiana. During our conversation, he noted that the interviewers were impressed with his C++ programming skills as demonstrated by a portfolio entry of a program he completed as a final project in one of my classes. He updated me in his last email, that he was promoted to field engineer and transferred to Denver.

What’s the best part about being a tutor/teacher?

When asked questions “what is the best” or “what are your favorite” I usually respond with my own self-defined statement “I am a line integrator” as such not one but a wide number of “bests” and “favorites” exist for me. Obviously, experiencing students’ career entry is one, but to give one or two answers to this question would not do justice to the many others left unstated.

Who was your favorite teacher growing up and why?

I respond as a “line integrator”.  In high school, Mr. Sullivan for three years of mathematics (still love set-theory), Mr. Rackie for three years of English (still love “Crime and Punishment”), Dr. Pizzarro for two years of electronics (I still have an IBM 514 wiring board).  In college, Dr. Dewar (still quote his vision of computer networking and use flair markers), Dr. Stover (my first anthropology professor), Dr. Karl Menger (a true mathematical genius). In graduate school, Dr. Skira (for supporting my interest in anthropology), Dr. Gravel (my masters mentor, still love African art), Dr. Wisinski (biological sciences are still of little interest), Dr. Carlson (applied set theory).  My cousin Dan for making me realize academics was where I should be.

What’s your favorite educational quote?

My favorite educational quote right now is “Never Ever Give Up!”

Why do you like working for iAchieve Learning?

I like hearing that my students are passing their courses.  That is success!!!