Smith's goal to spark political interest

by Courtney Bullard, co-associate editor

The new government professor at South Plains College is inspiring students to take an interest in politics by using current events and his own unique humor.

This has been the first year Michel Smith has been teaching at SPC, and it probably won’t be his last.

“I love it,” said Smith. “The staff is very supportive and helpful, and the students are generally interested.”

Smith says the thing that he finds most rewarding is when he can get students interested in politics. He knows he cannot reach everyone, but to be able to reach some and instill a curiosity in government and the world is what he enjoys most about his career.

Smith is originally from Plover, Iowa, and he earned his master’s degree at Iowa State. While attending college,  he was a teacher’s assistant and also taught English as a second language at nearby community colleges. He began his college career majoring in literature but then changed to political science.                     

“I got tired of the answers not being substantial enough, so I switched to political science,” said Smith.

Smith says that he became a teacher because it allowed him to continue to do what he likes.  The reason he watches TV and keeps up with the news is to prepare for class. He also added, jokingly, that it was one of the only jobs where he could have his summers off.

While in college, Smith participated in a summer abroad program in Czechoslovakia and fell in love with the country and the culture. He describes the country as extraordinary and wonderful.  While there, he taught an ESL class and met his wife. He encourages all students who can to get involved with a study aboard program to take advantage of that opportunity.  

Many of his students find his class interesting and love his passion for the subject.

 “He’s enthusiastic about what he does, and that keeps his class interesting,” said Richard Stockwell, a student in Smith’s Government class.