Newspapers / Gardner-Webb University Student Newspaper / Sept. 2, 2003, edition 1 / Page 6
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Page 6 y Tuesday. September 2,2003 JhePS&r Features Peterson seeks new frontiers at GWU Photo by Emily Kllllan Kirk Peterson gives a quiz to one of his person al health and wellness classes. Jacob Conley Pilot Staff No, the Quad is not the new home for Star Trek’s The Enterprise, but Gardner-Webb does have a Kirk on cam pus. However, Kirk Peterson, a professor of physical education, wellness and sports studies, is not at all unlike the mythical captain from the movies and television show. Each day, Peterson seeks new ways to connect with students, explores how to help them grow and strives to become a better husband, father and Christian. Peterson grew up in Rock Island 111., where he learned early the value of edu cation and hard work. "My parents were educators; there fore, I was raised around academics and education," Peterson said. "They always expected and demanded my best." Peterson said his parents were not only influential in his education, but throughout and in many aspects his childhood as well. Due to the emphasis his family placed on education, Peterson says he has always wanted to teach in some way either as a teacher or coach. "It feels good to help others and to see them grow personally and academically," he said. One way Peterson helps students is by understanding the pressure they are under while in college. Peterson said he understands because he was a student athlete in college. "[I] can appreciate time constraints and commitment to extracurricular activ ities," Peterson said. While Peterson places the utmost importance on education, he also realizes that some students came to GWU to be part of a group such as a sports team and, "Not to take my class, necessarily." Peterson also knows that sometimes things happen, such as sickness or other emergencies that take precedent over academics. "I understand that in between acade mic responsibilities, real life happens." Not only does Peterson place great value on connecting with and under standing his students, he places an even higher priority on his family. Peterson has been married for eight years to his wife, Rachel. They have two children, Caleb, 4, and Cody, 1. The Peterson’s white boxer. Princess, completes the household. Peterson’s family also played a role in his accepting a position at GWU. "When we drove on campus," Peterson said, "my wife and son were invited to many of the interview sessions, and were treated with great respect." In addition, Peterson said the Gardner-Webb campus, "was quaint and friendly." "The people who interviewed me have a great many years with GWU, which shows that the school is a great place." Peterson gives this advice to those who want to become college professors: "Discover the intrinsic value of educa tion," he said. "Understand that students have different styles and motives, and embrace those while believing in what you profess." Another key for being successful in any career choice is having strong fami ly support. Peterson plans to use this family support in order to accomplish several things in his fiiture teaching career and personal life. Professionally, Peterson wants to continue to teach at Gardner- Webb, and eventually write a scholarly work. In his personal life, he continues to strive towards improving his faith daily while also becoming a better hus band and father. Top 10 ways to know you are a Gardner-Webb student 1. You’re broke 2. You eat at the Taco Bell/KFC at least three times a week 3. Midnight trips to Wal Mart are normal and even exciting 4. You’re not afraid of the Lake Hollifleld geese 5. After a few days the caf smell no longer bothers you 6. You’re engaged 7. You’ve already gotten a parking ticket 8. A traffic jam involves five cars 9. You wonder what the activity fee is really for 10. You’re high school football stadium is twice as big as Spangler Stadium If you have an idea for a Top 10 list contact the Pilot at gwupilot@yahoo.com You’ve Got News urmiiinir': - - ''"i Get The Pilot in your Inbox. Register now on our website and automatically receive an Email Edition of the paper with every new Issue. Headline News • College Sports • Campus Calendar Local Weather • Dally Horoscope It’s the best way to stay informed- and It’s free. www.gwupllot.com
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Sept. 2, 2003, edition 1
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